Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many treatments will I need?

It depends on the patient's problem but typically one course of treatment is made up of ten visits. However, some patients may need less than five visits and others may need two to three courses of treatments. Usually we recommend three consecutive visits then two or three times a week to obtain the best results.

2. How safe are the needles?

Very safe. Our clinic uses only presterilized, disposable needles to ensure the safety of our patients.

3. Is Acupuncture painful?

Most patients do not feel any pain, some patients feel a slight sensation and are so comfortable and relaxed that they fall asleep after five minutes. Prior to their first treatment, many people do not believe that acupuncture can be painless. Different sensations such as soreness, numbness, warmth and pressure may be felt, but the sensation differs from pain. People often comment that the feeling is unfamiliar but pleasant and relaxing. Acupuncture needles are very fine, about the size of a thick hair. They are solid and nothing is injected through them. Over the centuries, refined needle insertion techniques have been developed which enable the skilled acupuncture practitioner to place a needle with little or no sensation. If you have a real fear of needles, discuss it with your acupuncturist. An appropriate treatment strategy can always be agreed upon.

4. Do you accept Insurance?

Most insurance covers acupuncture, but it depends on your medical insurance company and what type of health insurance plan you have enrolled in. We also accept workers' compensation and auto injuries.

5. Do you use herbs?

Yes. Acupuncture is just one part of the Traditional Chinese Medicine, and herbal medicine represents a large part of the care we provide. We use chinese herbs, western herbs, and nutritional supplements. The chinese herbs we use are in tablets, capsules, or tinctures. We do not require patients to boil their herbs and drink it as a tea.

6. Can acupuncture help me stop smoking?

Yes, acupuncture can help a person who is ready and motivated to quit smoking. We have a stop-smoking program that combines acupuncture, herbs, nutritional and behavioral counseling to help you quit smoking.

Acupuncture is a complete medical system which originated in China more than 5,000 years ago. It applies traditional Chinese medicine theory to diagnose and treat illness, prevent disease and improve well-being by inserting acupuncture needles at critical points throughout the human body. Due to its proven effectiveness, it has become more and more popular throughout the world.