Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems. Below are some of the health concerns that acupuncture can effectively treat:

During your first consultation, the practitioner will collect a complete history and detailed evaluation of your condition. They will ask questions relating to many different aspects of your life, not only the condition for which you are seeking treatment. The practitioner will then take your pulse, examine your tongue, and sometimes palpate your abdomen or check for tender areas along the acupuncture meridians. The initial visit usually lasts one and a half hours including the treatment. Subsequent visits usually last about one hour.

The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief and others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones.

Acupuncture is extremely safe, natural, effective and drug free.

Yes. Because there are some points that are contraindicated during pregnancy, it is important to inform your practitioner if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant.

Yes! In some instances children respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure.

Today, acupuncturists receive 3-4 years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in each state.

The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue. There are 12 pulse positions on each of your wrists that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. This information allows your acupuncturist to create a treatment specifically for your body.

This is the most common question asked about acupuncture because many people associate needles with pain. Acupuncture needles are about the thickness of a dog's whisker, so they are virtually painless when inserted. After insertion, the practitioner will bring the needle to the appropriate depth. You will then usually feel a very unique sensation that can vary from tingling, to heaviness, to warmth, or nothing at all. Each person's experience is different. Should you experience any discomfort, inform the practitioner, and they will adjust the needles accordingly. All needles are sterilized and disposable.