FAQ about acupuncture

 The first question most have about Acupuncture is "Does it hurt?". The short answer is NO. Acupuncture needles are hair thin and flexible. They are solid, not hollow, which allows for relatively painless insertion. Some patients might feel a heaviness sensation, a tingling, or itching while needles are in. Some don’t feel anything at all. All of this is completely normal. There may be occasions when the needles will be manipulated a bit either by twisting or lifting in order to briefly elicit what we call a ‘Qi sensation’ which can be a heavy or ache feeling.

In Chinese Medicine, acupuncture is linked to the idea that disease is caused by the disruption to the Qi, or flow of energy in the body. Acupuncture works through the neuro-hormonal pathways, where the inserted needles stimulate the acupressure points to send signals to the brain through the nerve pathway. The brain then releases neural hormones to help energy flow properly through the effected areas.

-Avoid alcohol and caffeine before your session.

-Eat something light. 

-To enjoy the full benefits of acupuncture, schedule wisely to not be rushed.

 A first time acupuncture appointment can take as long as 1 ½ hours.  All follow up appointments last about an hour. Please download and fill out our intake forms found below and bring them with you. If   you can’t bring them with you, please arrive about 15 minutes early in order to fill them out. We will go over these very detailed forms to get a complete picture    

of your medical history and current health status. I will take your pulse and look at your tongue to give more information in order to get to the root cause of your health issues. Once needles are placed, I will leave the room to give you time to relax and let them do their job!   

Acupuncture works cumulatively which means the effects build with each session. Depending on the condition, results can be immediate. 

In most cases, it is not necessary to disrobe for your acupuncture treatment. Please wear loose fitting clothing so I can have access to arms and legs, or bring clothing to change into. If you do need to disrobe, all private areas are completely covered at all times.