FAQ

How long is each treatment?

New patient appointments last 90 minutes, and established patient visits last 45 minutes.

Do you use disposable needles?

Yes, we only use disposable needles of the highest quality available on the market.

Is acupuncture painful?
 

For most people, acupuncture is not painful. The needles used are extremely thin; much finer than those used for injections or blood draws. You might feel a brief pinch or pressure as the needle is inserted, a sensation of warmth, tingling, heaviness, or dull ache at the point, or a feeling that travels slightly along an area or pathway. These sensations are usually mild, last only a few seconds, and are considered a normal part of the treatment response.

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Once the needles are in place, most patients feel deeply relaxed. Many report little to no sensation at all during the rest of the treatment and some even fall asleep.

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Sensitivity can vary based on:

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• The area being treated

• Your overall health and stress level

• Whether the condition is acute or chronic
   

Your acupuncturist will adjusts technique and needle placement to keep you comfortable at all times. You’re always encouraged to speak up if something feels uncomfortable. Acupuncture is generally gentle and well-tolerated, even by people who dislike needles. The experience is often described as calming rather than painful, with benefits that extend well beyond the session itself.

 
Where do you put the needles?
 

Acupuncture needles are placed at specific points on the body, chosen based on your symptoms, overall health, and treatment goals. These points are located along pathways often referred to as meridians and are selected to support balance and proper function in the body.
 

Common Areas for Needle Placement

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• Arms and hands

• Legs and feet

• Abdomen

• Back, shoulders, or hips

• Head or ears, when appropriate
   

Not all needles are placed near the area of discomfort. For example, pain in the shoulder may be treated with points on the arm or leg that influence that region.

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Every treatment is individualized. The number and location of needles can change from session to session depending on how your body responds and what is most supportive that day.
 

Your acupuncturist will always explain where needles will be placed, ensure your comfort, and only access areas necessary for your care.

Do I need to undress for treatment?

You will only undress to your level of comfort for acupuncture treatments. Any areas that need to be accessed will be appropriately covered with a drape to ensure privacy and comfort at all times. We will clearly explain what is needed before treatment and make adjustments to help you feel completely at ease.

How Many Sessions Are Typically Needed?
 

Acupuncture is most effective when received over time rather than as a single visit. Each treatment builds on the last, supporting gradual and meaningful changes in the body, similar to other rehabilitative therapies.
 

Most people start with once-weekly appointments, with progress reviewed after 3 to 5 sessions to assess response and refine the plan as needed.
 

Short-term or recent concerns often improve within a few visits, commonly around 3–5 treatments. Long-standing or complex conditions including chronic pain, digestive imbalances, allergies, or fertility challenges usually require a longer course of care. The overall length of treatment depends on how severe the condition is, how long it has been present, and how your body responds.
 

After noticeable improvement is reached, many patients shift into a maintenance schedule to help preserve results. Some also choose periodic visits to support overall health and balance on an as-needed basis.

When is it not recommended to receive acupuncture?

Acupuncture is generally safe for many people when performed by a licensed practitioner, but there are certain situations where it may not be recommended or may require special precautions.
 

Acupuncture May Not Be Recommended If You:

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• Have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood-thinning medications that significantly increase bleeding risk

• Have a compromised immune system or active infection without medical clearance

• Have severe needle phobia that causes distress or fainting

• Are unable to remain still or lie comfortably during treatment
   

Situations Requiring Special Consideration

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• Pregnancy – Some acupuncture points are avoided or modified

• Pacemakers or implanted medical devices – Electroacupuncture may not be appropriate

• Recent surgery or open wounds – Needling near affected areas is avoided

• Severe medical conditions – Coordination with your healthcare provider may be recommended
   

Important Note

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A thorough intake and ongoing communication help ensure acupuncture is safe and appropriate for you. If acupuncture is not recommended, your practitioner can often suggest modifications or alternative supportive options.
 

If you’re unsure whether acupuncture is right for you, discussing your health history during the initial consultation will help determine the safest and most effective approach.

What if I'm going be late to my appointment or need to cancel? 
 

We understand that schedules can change. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, at least 24 hours’ notice is required to avoid a charge. Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance will not incur any fee.
 

If you arrive late, your appointment will still end at the originally scheduled time to respect other patients’ appointments. Full payment will be charged for the scheduled session, regardless of a late arrival.
 

Thank you for your understanding and for helping us provide timely care to all patients.