You’ve got questions. I love patterns. Let’s solve this together.
What should I expect at my first visit?
Your first session is 65 minutes. I’ll go over your full health history, discuss your main concerns, and do a traditional diagnosis- looking at your tongue, feeling your pulses, and palpating your meridians. Then we will be ready to begin treatment — usually including acupuncture and any indicated adjunct therapies like cupping, gua sha, moxa, or gentle myofascial work.
Do the needles hurt?
Most people are surprised by how little acupuncture hurts. The needles are very fine — about the width of a hair — and are inserted gently. You may feel a slight pinch or a dull ache that quickly fades and may come and go. Most patients feel deeply relaxed during treatment since one of the generalized effects of acupuncture is to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, our rest and digest mode in which healing occurs.
How many treatments will I need?
Chronic patterns typically benefit from a 10-session program. Acute issues usually respond well to 5 sessions. We’ll choose the right path for your goals, and I’ll adjust the plan as your body shifts.
Do you accept insurance?
I don’t bill insurance directly, but I’m happy to provide you with a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. You will need acupuncture coverage for the specific condition you want treated, possibly a diagnosis with an MD, and out of network provider coverage.
Many of my patients use their HSA or FSA to cover treatment.
How is acupuncture different from dry needling?
Dry needling is based on an acupuncture technique of needling 'a shi' points. A shi means 'that's it!' and focuses on local trigger points, often with a more aggressive technique meant to manually effect muscle tissues. It's an amazing technique that is simple to learn and has been adopted by many other health professionals simply because it works! Dry needling as a stand alone treatment separated from the rest of acupuncture theory and practice can be a good choice when you only need the local tissue effect and are already working with a PT or OT. However, acupuncture is part of a complete system of medicine that treats the whole pattern, not just the pain site. It’s rooted in over 2,000 years of clinical observation and theory — and includes herbal medicine, diagnosis, physiology, and treatment principles. When your underlying tissue quality or health is compromised or the trigger points are stemming from an underlying condition rather than an injury than acupuncture may be needed.
How is your training different from a chiropractor who does acupuncture?
Licensed acupuncturists in the U.S. complete 2,500–3,000+ hours of graduate-level training in acupuncture, herbal medicine, and biomedicine. Chiropractic acupuncture certifications often require only 100–300 hours. That’s why treatment with a licensed acupuncturist like me tends to be more comprehensive and individualized. But again, acupuncture may help your chiropractor do a better job at treating your muscles and helping you receive and hold an adjustment. See dry needling above.
Should I eat before my treatment?
Yes — please have at least a light snack or small meal beforehand. You don’t want to arrive with low blood sugar, as that can make you feel dizzy or tired during treatment.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing is best. I may need to access your arms, legs, and sometimes your back or abdomen — so wear clothes that roll up easily. But if you can't make that work- don't worry! I have sheets and a blanket if needed like massage therapists use.
