What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the insertion of fine, sterile needles into the body. By doing so, the area of the body the needles are inserted into are stimulated. When the needles enter the body, your immune, nervous and musculoskeletal systems are also stimulated or activated. This allows the body's energy (Qi) to flow, opening up any areas where the energy may be stuck. This sets the stage for the body to begin to repair and heal itself.

How can acupuncture work for me?

Acupuncture's main objectives are to relieve symptoms of any particular condition you may be suffering from, to strengthen the immune system, regulate the central nervous system and to balance, harmonize and integrate the functions of the internal organs with each other. This all combines to balance, harmonize and unify your body and mind creating your optimal health, no matter what you suffer from or to prevent you from getting sick.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Although everyone has different levels of pain tolerance, acupuncture does not cause pain. There can be a slight sensation as the needles are inserted but it dissipates quickly.

Does acupuncture help with addictions?

Yes! The number of sessions depend on the level of addiction, length of addiction, age, and the person themselves. Some people quit with only a few session while others need 12 or more.

Are Acupuncture needles Similar to the one's hospitals use?

Absolutely not! Those needles are hypodermic needles and are hollow to inject medicine or remove fluids from the body. They range in size (or gauge) from 1.3mm (17G) to 0.45mm (26G). By comparison, acupuncture needles are not hollow and range from 0.3mm (30G) to 0.16mm (40G). So, as you can see, the largest acupuncture needle is still 0.15mm smaller than the smallest hypodermic needle.

How big are the needles?

I typically use 30 gauge needles.

How far are the needles inserted?

Typically not very deep. The depth is determined by many factors such as symptoms, area of treatment, etc. Before each session we will discuss your treatment and I will answer all your questions so you will be completely informed before we begin treatment.

What is a "TENS unit"?

A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit is a device with two or more electrode clamps or pads that send small electrical currents to targeted body parts. An electrical stimulation unit does the same but with clamps that attach to the needles providing a deeper reach. 

what is Qi?

Pronounced “chee”, it is the sensation you feel when an acupuncture needle activates your healing systems. You may feel tingling, a tugging, light pressure or vibration. Qi is an energy that travels throughout the body via meridians or channels interconnecting everything in the body, organs, structures and systems. When there is disruption to any part of the body, this disrupts the flow of Qi thereby creating illness. Acupuncture directly affects Qi promoting balance and harmony in the body, optimizing health.

How long are the sessions?

Sessions usually last 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your situation at the time of your appointment. Your first appointment will last 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes as the initial consultation will require extra time.

How many sessions WILL I NEED?

Each patient's health problems and subsequent responses are unique, therefore the number and frequency of treatments varies. The typical recommendation is 1-2 treatments a week for 16-20 weeks, although some patients respond favorably after 2-4 treatments. Some may not notice results until the 9th or 10th visit. In general, chronic conditions require more treatments over a longer period of time than acute conditions. Acupuncture builds towards improvement each time you have it done. Just like exercise and diet do. The more you dedicate yourself to your treatment, the sooner you'll see results! 

How much does it cost?

The cost of treatment is dependent upon many factors. What we do within a session can change the cost as well. Within out first meeting, we'll talk about your health history, what's currently ailing you and once I've gathered that information, I'll be better able to decide what treatment will work best for you. I have single session and package options available so that we can find the care plan that suites you best!

Is acupuncture covered by my insurance?

Most major insurance plans cover some acupuncture but not all and often, claims are denied. WHA does not accept insurance. I do however, accept HSA and FSA debit cards and it is Federal Law that states these savings accounts can be used to pay for holistic care including; acupuncture. I am also happy to provide you with any documentation you may need so you can see if your insurance company will reimburse your treatments

Acupuncture has really helped me! Could my Child get acupuncture? would they be too young?

Yes, (s)he could! I've treated patients as young as 7 years old. They just need to be able to understand what we'll do and follow simple instructions. A parent or guardian must always be present.