Frequently Asked Questions

How does acupuncture work?

Very fine sterile needles are gently inserted at points along energy pathways reflecting the specific symptom pattern of the patient. Stimulating these points encourages the body’s own healing processes by, for example, relieving pain or improving stress and inflammatory response, and blood circulation.

Does it hurt?

Not really, and there are several reasons for that:

1. The needles are so thin they curl if you run a thumbnail along them. Also, the needle tips are rounded so that they push the tissue to either side on insertion rather than cutting it, and so rarely cause bleeding.
2. The needle is not inserted into inflamed or tight muscles, but rather into distal points to release this pain.
3. Acupuncture generally leads to profound relaxation. Most of our patients relax very deeply, and many fall asleep while resting on the table.

How long does each session last?

We generally allow 90 minutes for the first session for a thorough diagnosis and discussion about your health history. We may also suggest changes you might make to support your health, e.g. in diet, in breathing exercises or sleep patterns. We will also discuss the role of emotional health in your present situation. Following an exam, we give an acupuncture treatment, which often incorporates massage and heat therapy. We then leave you to rest for 15 to 20 minutes, to allow time for relaxation. Follow-up sessions take about 1 hour.

How many sessions should I expect?

The answer to this question will vary with the individual patient, and cannot be predicted exactly.  That said, some significant  change should occur in one to four sessions, especially in cases of acute pain. Many serious conditions respond well to biweekly treatment over a number of weeks. Many of our patients return every two to four weeks to maintain physical and mental health.  Others living with high levels of stress or chronic conditions use acupuncture as a weekly or biweekly support. Together, we will agree on a treatment plan that is effective and affordable to you.

What is the cost and will insurance cover it?

The cost is $123 for the initial intake and treatment in a private room.  Follow up visits are $103. There is a $3 discount for payment with cash or check instead of credit card. Some companies do cover the cost of insurance, for example, Oxford Health and Aetna. Please call your insurance company to inquire. We do not process claims but will provide receipts for you to submit.

How is a diagnosis and treatment plan determined?

First, we assess how the body is out of balance and then treat specific acupuncture points to help the body correct that imbalance.

Do you work with other health care professionals?

Yes, we refer patients to a range of other health care professionals including doctors, chiropractors, massage and craniosacral therapists, and psychotherapists.