Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture is generally very gentle and not painful. You may feel a brief sensation when the needle is inserted, but discomfort is minimal and short-lived.
Some patients notice sensations such as heaviness, tingling, warmth, or a gentle traveling feeling along an acupuncture pathway. These are normal and indicate the body is responding to treatment. Afterward, many people feel deeply relaxed, calm, or refreshed.
Are acupuncture needles reused?
No. We use sterile, single-use, disposable acupuncture needles only. All needles are safely discarded in approved biohazard containers after each treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends on your condition, how long it has been present, and how your body responds.
- Acute conditions (recent injuries, flare-ups) often improve within 1–3 visits.
- Chronic or long-standing conditions typically require a longer course of care, often several weeks to months.
After your first 1–3 visits, we can usually provide a clearer treatment plan and prognosis.
What should I expect during my first acupuncture appointment?
Your initial visit includes a comprehensive consultation covering your health history, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. Pulse and tongue diagnosis may be used to gather additional information.
Treatment may include acupuncture and, when appropriate, supportive therapies such as cupping, moxibustion, or guasha. A customized Chinese herbal formula may also be recommended.
Appointments typically last 45–90 minutes.o help you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your care.
Fertility-Specific FAQs
How does acupuncture support fertility?
Acupuncture helps regulate the menstrual cycle, improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, balance hormones, and calm the nervous system. By reducing stress and supporting circulation, the body becomes more receptive to conception.
Acupuncture is commonly used to support:
- Natural conception
- IVF and IUI cycles
- Egg quality and implantation
- Hormonal balance
- Miscarriage recovery and prevention
Can acupuncture be used alongside IVF or IUI?
Yes. Acupuncture is commonly used alongside assisted reproductive treatments. It is often recommended before and after embryo transfer to help optimize blood flow, reduce stress, and support implantation.
Cindy is experienced in working collaboratively with fertility specialists and can review lab work and treatment timelines when needed.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Yes. When performed by a trained practitioner, acupuncture is safe and beneficial during pregnancy. Treatments are tailored specifically to each trimester and can help with nausea, fatigue, back and hip pain, headaches, swelling, and stress.
Acupuncture may also help prepare the body for labor and assist with breech presentations.
How often should I come for fertility treatments?
Frequency depends on your cycle, goals, and whether you are undergoing fertility treatments. Many fertility patients are seen weekly, with increased frequency during certain phases of the menstrual or IVF cycle.p you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your care.
Pain & Injury Treatment FAQs
Can acupuncture help with chronic pain?
Yes. Acupuncture is widely used for chronic pain conditions such as back pain, neck pain, arthritis, migraines, sciatica, and joint pain. By improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and calming the nervous system, acupuncture helps address the root cause of pain rather than masking symptoms.
How quickly will I feel relief from pain?
Some patients experience relief after the first session, especially with acute injuries. Chronic pain may improve gradually over several treatments as the body rebalances and heals more deeply.
Does acupuncture treat the painful area directly?
Not always. Cindy practices classical Chinese acupuncture, which often treats pain using points distant from the affected area. This approach is gentler, highly effective, and ideal for sensitive or inflamed regions.
Preparing for Your Appointment
What should I wear to my acupuncture appointment?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Acupuncture points are commonly located on the arms, legs, and lower legs. Shorts or loose pants that can roll up easily are ideal. Gowns and sheets are available if needed.
What should I eat before acupuncture?
Avoid coming in on a completely empty stomach. A light meal or snack 1–2 hours before your appointment is recommended. Avoid heavy meals immediately before treatment.
Staying well hydrated before and after your session is also helpful.
What should I avoid before or after treatment?
- Avoid alcohol immediately before or after your appointment
- Avoid intense exercise right after treatment
- Plan some quiet time, if possible, to allow your body to integrate the treatment
Insurance & Payment FAQs
Do you accept Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)?
Yes. HSA and FSA cards are accepted in most cases.
Do you accept health insurance?
We do not bill insurance directly. However, if your plan includes acupuncture coverage, we can provide a detailed superbill that you may submit for reimbursement according to your policy.
What is the cost of treatments?
- Initial acupuncture visit: $180 (60–90 minutes). Includes intake, treatment, as well as additional modalities and herbal consultation as needed.
- Follow-up acupuncture visits: $100 (45-60 minutes).
- Initial herbal consultation: $125 (30-45 minutes).
- Follow-up herbal consultations: $80 (30 minutes).
Herbal formulas and products are priced separately.
Insurance is not accepted; however, some plans offer out-of-network reimbursement for acupuncture. An itemized receipt can be provided for insurance submission. Payment is due at the time of service.
Still have questions?
We’re happy to answer any additional questions before your visit. Our goal is to help you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your care.
