FAQs

How does acupuncture work?

In Chinese medicine, we look at the body’s internal pathways like rivers and streams that carry qi (loosely defined as energy), blood, and body fluids.  The flow of qi, blood, and body fluids are affected by external factors such as the environment or internal factors such as diet and lifestyle. When the pathways are all flowing smoothly, there is harmony and balance within the body.  Alternatively, if there is any stagnation or stuckness within these pathways, this may result in symptoms such as pain (physical stagnation) or anger (emotional stagnation).  Deficiencies within the pathways may result in feelings of fatigue or poor digestion as qi and blood are not nourishing the organs.  Acupuncture works by ensuring the smooth flow of qi, blood, and body fluids throughout the body so our organs and whole body system can function optimally.  When internal balance is obtained, our bodies flourish. 

From a Western perspective, the tiny needles create microtears that trigger the body’s healing response.  It increases blood flow to the area while also activating the parasympathetic nervous system, putting the body into the state of rest and digest.  When your parasympathetic nervous system is active, the body is functioning as it should.  

Acupuncture treatments are not one size fits all, as we are treating your symptoms, not the disease.  During your appointment, I will assess your health history, diet, lifestyle, sleep, energy level, etc and come up with an individualized treatment plan to get your body functioning at its best! 

What does acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture can treat a variety of conditions and symptoms which include (but not limited to) chronic and acute pain, hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, infertility, headaches, stress, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and boosting the immune system. Acupuncture is also great for maintaining a strong immune system, so even if you aren’t experiencing any issues, when a pathogen or disease does come your way, your body will be able to fight it off naturally.

What should I expect during my first treatment?

During your first treatment, I will do an in depth assessment of your lifestyle and health history, we will discuss your main health concerns, I will look at your tongue and check your pulse and come up with an individualized treatment plan.  In addition to acupuncture, treatment plans may include cupping, gua sha, tuina, moxibustion, and herbal supplements. Needles are left in for about 30 minutes.  It is normal to feel a little numbness and tingling after the needles are inserted but most patients report a painless experience, and leave feeling extremely relaxed.

Do you take insurance?

I currently do not take insurance but am happy to provide a super bill for patients to submit for reimbursement.

How many treatments will it take for me to feel better?

Acupuncture is cumulative and each treatment builds on the next.  As acupuncturists like to say, you don’t go to the gym once and expect to have a six pack. The answer depends on what you’re coming in for but typically for chronic conditions, treatments will consist of 1-2 times per week for 6 weeks and then we will assess from there.  As symptoms dissipate, treatments can be tapered off to once every 2 weeks and then once a month for maintenance. Everyone reacts differently to acupuncture and some may feel relief after just a couple treatments. For more acute conditions such as an acute injury or a common cold, a typical treatment plan would be 1-2 times per week for 4 weeks.

Are there any side effects?

While side effects are rare and generally mild, they can occur.  Though most people feel extremely relaxed after a treatment, some might feel fatigued which is nothing to worry about.  Acupuncture gets your qi, blood, and body fluids moving which can result in feeling sleepy.  The best thing to do is relax and nourish your body with water and healthy food.  There is a chance that small bruises and slight soreness may occur at the site of insertion, but again, this is not very common and nothing to be concerned about.