Acupuncture Treatments

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Acupuncture Really Work?

Acupuncture is an experiential science that has been practiced in Asia for thousands of years. The tradition was practiced and passed down from master to student. The longevity of acupuncture within Asia and its resilience within China specifically directly speaks to the validity and importance of this medicine. Acupuncture survived the Cultural Revolution in China – a time when the Chinese government attempted to purge remnants of capitalist and traditional elements from Chinese society.

We can see the results in our patients ourselves, but we also hear about their improvements as they progress. Of course, the goals and also results of treatments differ from patient to patient. We’ve seen some patients experience results in as little as 3-6 treatments, but have also treated patients that needed therapy for 6 or more months.

How does acupuncture work?

In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is linked to the belief that disease is caused by disruptions to the flow of energy, or qi, in the body. Acupuncture stimulates points on or under the skin called acupuncture points or acupressure points, releasing this qi. The qi then travels through channels called meridians. This release of qi brings relief to the conditions or symptoms that were targeted during treatment.

How is it possible for one treatment modality to deliver such a wide range of results? To learn more about how acupuncture works, see our articles about:

• How acupuncture works for stress/anxiety/depression
• How acupuncture works for physical pain
• How we select the acupuncture points
• The secrets of pulse diagnosis
• The secrets of tongue diagnosis

What is the Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?

Both dry needling and acupuncture involve the insertion of needles into certain parts of the body, however, intention, practitioner, placement of needles, and uses all differ.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine that focuses on restoring the balance of qi (energy) throughout the body. The placement of the needles is based on the meridian lines that represent the organs. That knowledge is used to treat a variety of conditions and symptoms, from fertility and menstrual health to physical and mental issues. These treatments are only to be performed by trained acupuncturists.

Dry needling is a newer, Western medicine that is usually performed by a physical therapist. During these treatments, needles are placed on trigger points (a taut band of skeletal muscle located within a larger muscle group) to help relieve acute or chronic pain.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Each patient varies in their sensitivity and response to acupuncture. Many feel the initial insertion of the needles as they first break the skin. It is fairly normal to feel an achiness or bee sting-like sensation at the site of insertion. This feeling usually disappears after a few deep breaths. If an individual is found to be extra sensitive to the insertion of the needles, the practitioner will take extra care to provide comfort, which may include the use of smaller needles.

We will communicate with you throughout the process to ensure you are comfortable and at ease.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Yes, acupuncture is a safe way to treat a number of conditions. Our practitioners are all licensed and experienced acupuncturists that are adept at practicing this natural medicine. We invest time in taking a detailed medical history and listen closely to our patient’s needs to determine the safest and most effective way to move forward with treatment.

What Does Acupuncture Treat?

Acupuncture can be used to treat a great many conditions and symptoms. Anything you would go to our primary care physician for can likely be treated with acupuncture.

Here are some of the issues acupuncture can help with:

• Acute and Chronic Pain
• Sleep Issues and Insomnia
• Digestive Issues
• Low Energy and Fatigue
• Fertility
• Women’s and Men’s Health Issues
• Menstrual and Hormonal Health
• Prenatal and Perinatal Care
• Breech Babies
• Mental and Emotional Health

Does Medicare Cover Acupuncture?

Not at this time. However, our professional organizations have been working with members of Congress to include acupuncture. We highly recommend you reach out to your representatives and ask them to support Congress bill HR 4803: Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act of 2021. To learn more check out the American Society of Acupuncturists Fact Sheet.

Is Acupuncture Covered by Insurance?

Yes, acupuncture treatments are covered by many insurances. Our clinic is in-network with Carefirst, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna, and United Healthcare. We will bill out of network for all other insurance companies.

To check if your insurance provider covers acupuncture treatments, fill out our form to verify your benefits. We’ll notify you by email with the results in 3-5 business days.

How Much Does Acupuncture Cost?

The cost of our acupuncture treatments is based on your specific needs and if it is grouped with another therapy. Our fees change from time to time, so be sure to check out our rate page for current pricing.

What to Wear to Acupuncture

We recommend wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothes or you may bring a pair of shorts and a t-shirt to change into when you arrive at the clinic. This will help ensure the correct placement of needles. Plus, you want to wear something comfortable so you can fully relax during the treatment.

What to Expect During Acupuncture Treatment

Acupuncture treatments vary a bit based on what’s being treated and your specific needs. Generally, needles will be placed on various parts of the body, which could include the arms, legs, wrists, hands, head, torso, back, and ears for a period of 5 to 30 minutes. The needles may also be moved to further stimulate blood flow. Your practitioner will communicate with you during the treatment to make sure you are as comfortable as possible. 

What to Expect After Acupuncture

Response to acupuncture treatments is different from person to person. One person might feel very calm and relaxed, while another may walk out of the clinic feeling energized. It’s important to listen to your body after each treatment, stay hydrated, and try to relax. We encourage you to share how you feel after treatment with your practitioner so we can provide you with the best experience.

How Long Does it Take for Acupuncture to Work?

Each patient is unique in their needs and their response to acupuncture. Some patients experience results in as little as 3-4 treatments while others may need to be in active treatment for 3-6 months. We’ll create a treatment plan for you before your sessions begin that will provide you with more information. We will also reassess at certain intervals and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

How Often Should You Get Acupuncture?

Treatment plans vary based on a patient’s diagnosis and condition. Common treatment plans can vary from twice per week for 2-8 weeks to once per week for 3-6 months. Your practitioner will discuss your specific treatment plan during your initial visit.