Frequently Asked Questions

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture works by stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms, promoting blood flow, reducing inflammation, and balancing the flow of energy (or Qi) along meridian pathways.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing.

Do you accept insurance?

At this time, we do not directly bill insurance providers. However, if you have acupuncture coverage through your health insurance policy, we're more than happy to provide you with a detailed superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Additionally, we accept payments from Flex Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA), offering you convenient options to utilize your healthcare funds for our services. We are dedicated to assisting you in navigating the reimbursement process and maximizing your benefits to ensure access to the holistic care you deserve.

Can you give me a superbill receipt? (What is a superbill receipt?)

Yes, we're more than happy to provide you with a superbill, which is a detailed invoice specifically designed for submission to your insurance company. While we do not directly accept health insurance, if acupuncture is covered under your policy, you can utilize the superbill to seek reimbursement for eligible expenses. For instance, if our standard acupuncture treatment fee is $75 and your insurance has a copay of $45 for acupuncture services, you can submit the superbill to your insurance provider for reimbursement of the $30 difference between your copay and our fee. We are committed to assisting you throughout this process, ensuring that you maximize your insurance benefits and receive the reimbursement you're entitled to.

How should I prepare for my treatment?

1. Please ensure that you fill out your paperwork online prior to your appointment to streamline your check-in process. If you haven't received an email containing the necessary forms after scheduling your appointment, please don't hesitate to inform us, and we'll be happy to resend it to you!

2. We recommend having a light snack about one hour before your initial treatment. It's best to avoid arriving on an empty stomach for your comfort during the session.

3. Please dress in loose and comfortable attire to ensure easy access to acupuncture points, particularly around the elbows and knees if needed.

4. Prepare yourself to relax and potentially drift off into a peaceful nap during your session!

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are extremely thin, so most people only feel a slight sensation when they're inserted. Any discomfort is usually minimal and temporary.

What conditions can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture is known for its effectiveness in treating a wide range of conditions, including pain (such as back pain, migraines, and arthritis), anxiety, depression, insomnia, digestive issues, allergies, and more.

How many acupuncture sessions are needed?

The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, meaning each session builds upon the progress of previous ones.

While some individuals experience immediate improvement after their first treatment, lasting change, akin to physical fitness, requires consistency. For sustained relief, we typically recommend a series of treatments, usually one session per week for 6-8 weeks. Following this initial period, we reassess your progress and adjust the frequency as needed to maintain optimal results.

For chronic conditions, such as long-standing back pain, additional sessions may be necessary to achieve full healing. Conversely, acute conditions may require more frequent visits initially, gradually tapering off as symptoms improve.

Ultimately, my aim is to tailor the treatment plan to your unique needs, ensuring the quickest path to your well-being.

Is acupuncture safe?

When performed by a trained and licensed practitioner, acupuncture is generally considered safe. At our clinic, we uphold strict adherence to clean needle technique, ensuring that all needles used are sterile and disposable, thus minimizing the risk of infection and prioritizing your safety.

What should I expect during an acupuncture session?

During an acupuncture session, you'll lie comfortably on a treatment table while the acupuncturist inserts needles into specific points on your body. You may feel a gentle sensation or nothing at all. The needles will remain in place for about 15-30 minutes.

Can acupuncture help with fertility?

Acupuncture has been shown to support fertility by reducing stress, regulating hormones, improving blood flow to the reproductive organs, and promoting overall well-being. It's often used in conjunction with other fertility treatments.

Are there any side effects of acupuncture?

Side effects of acupuncture are rare but may include minor bruising, soreness, or light-headedness. These usually subside quickly.