What is acupuncture? 

Acupuncture is ​the application of very thin, sterile, stainless steel needles inserted in to specific points on the body to promote natural healing of the body.  It is a way to manipulate and access the qi of the body to help correct imbalance and illness. 

 

Does acupuncture hurt?

Most people equate acupuncture needles to hypodermic needles used for injections and drawing blood.  Acupuncture needles are very different in both size and use.  They are very thin, like the width of a human hair, so sensation of them is minimal.  However, each person has a different response, and this is not predictable and quite varied.  Most common sensations are tingling, heavy-pulling down or traveling ones.  These usually last a short period and are replaced by an overall relaxed and calm feeling during the treatment session.

 

Does medical insurance cover the cost of treatment?

Many medical insurance companies are adding acupuncture as a covered benefit.  However, each company and individual plans vary and one would have to check if there is coverage.  This practititoner accepts insurance and participates in a few networks. 

 

How many visits will I need?

This depends on the condition(s) being treated.  One visit may be enough for an acute situation such as the common cold, but a more chronic condition may take several treatments.  Completing 4-5 visits will usually produce progress and re-evaluation will be done to determine further treatment .