Can acupuncture treat ______?
Acupuncture works by promoting the body’s innate ability to heal itself, which is why it is an effective treatment for such a wide variety of conditions, such as (but not limited to) pain, anxiety, arthritis, allergies, migraines, menstrual disorders, and digestive disorders. The World Health Organization declared a list of a wide variety of conditions that have proven through clinical trials to be effectively treated by acupuncture. This list, though long, is not a complete list.
While acupuncture is effective in treating these conditions, it does so by restoring balance on the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of being. Because acupuncture treats the whole person, someone who comes in for back pain may notice improvement in their digestion and anxiety. Acupuncture can also be (and was historically) used as a preventative medicine.
How much acupuncture do I need before I start feeling better?
Acupuncture generally works by stimulating the body’s innate healing response. The number of treatments for you depends on how much support that healing response needs. In general, for chronic conditions, you can expect a longer course of treatment. For acute conditions, several sessions close together for a few weeks is ideal. Most people will progress over a few common stages of treatment.
In the RELIEF STAGE, we’ll focus on reducing your symptoms to get you out of distress. During this time, your treatments will be close together, usually 2-4 visits per week, until you start to feel better.
In the HEALING STAGE, we’ll begin correcting the underlying course of your symptoms with a series of regular treatments, generally 1-2 visits per week.
And finally, in the MAINTENANCE STAGE, we’ll keep you tuned up, take care of little problems before they get bigger, and just generally provide support for the everyday stresses of life. This may be 2-4 visits per month, or just as needed.
Is there a limit to how much acupuncture I can get?
No, not really. In China, where acupuncture is covered by their national health care system, people can opt to get acupuncture daily when they need to or want to. Experiment for yourself to experience the benefits of regular acupuncture care.
How long does an acupuncture session last?
Sessions usually last between forty five and sixty minutes. Some patients enjoy and need even longer sessions, but at least 30 minutes with the needles can be enough for full effect. If you have a time limitation, let us know at the start of the session.
Does it hurt?
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin — about the width of few strands of hair. The needles bear no resemblance to a hypodermic syringe. Sensations vary from person to person, ranging from no sensation at all to a dull pressure, vibration or tingling at the site of the needling.
Are the needles sterile?
Yes. All needles are sterile, single-use, disposable needles.
Do you accept insurance?
yes, we are in network with insurance companies. We offer a sliding scale payment structure where you pay what you can between $50 and $100 (plus a one time $25 registration fee) so that everyone can afford acupuncture, including those who do not have insurance. We are happy to provide you with an itemized receipt for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement as an out-of-network expense.
The sliding scale? How much should I pay?
We do not ask any income-related questions; you choose what you can pay, between $50 and $100 per session. You can pay different amounts each time if you choose to.
Can I use my HSA/flex spending account?
Yes.
Is there parking?
There is street parking available nearby, which is mostly 2 hour parking (more than enough time for your session). You may wish to give yourself some extra time before your appointment to ensure you can find a place to park.