Frequently Asked Questions
Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) —a holistic, natural healthcare system that has been practiced for thousands of years across Asia to preserve health, treat illness, and restore balance in the body.
Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body known as acu-points. These points are activated using ultra-fine needles, or sometimes through methods like heat therapy (moxibustion) or gentle finger pressure (acupressure), to promote the body’s natural healing response.
According to TCM, health depends on the smooth flow of Qi (pronounced "chee")—the vital energy that circulates through a network of meridians or energy channels connecting every organ and part of the body. This network maintains balance, regulates physiological functions, and supports the body's ability to heal itself.
When the flow of Qi is disrupted or blocked—due to illness, injury, stress, poor diet, medication, overwork, or emotional imbalance— pain and disease may result.
By stimulating the appropriate acu-points, acupuncture helps restore the proper flow of Qi and nutrients, relieving pain, improving bodily functions, and re-balancing the body’s systems for better overall health.
Acupuncture practitioners use a comprehensive diagnostic approach that looks at the person as a whole—not just the symptoms. The goal is not only to relieve discomfort but also to address the root cause of illness, improve function, and enhance quality of life.
Opioid medicines travel through the blood and attach to opioid receptors in brain cells. This blocks pain messages and can boost feelings of pleasure.
• In response to the growing epidemic of prescription opioid abuse, on January 1, 2018, the Joint Commission implemented new and revised pain assessment and management standards for accredited hospitals. These standards require hospitals to actively implement strategies to decrease opioid use, minimize risks associated with opioid use, and provide nonpharmacologic pain-management modalities.
• Acupuncture is an evidence-based, safe, and cost-effective treatment for the management of acute and chronic pain in clinical settings.
Have a light meal or snack within two hours before your appointment.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing to ensure a relaxing treatment experience.
If available, bring any lab tests, imaging results, or medical reports related to your health concerns.
Follow the personalized recommendations provided by your practitioner.
Drink plenty of water and try to rest or sleep early that evening.
In a small percentage of cases, you may experience mild muscle soreness after treatment. This is normal—stay hydrated and rest, and the discomfort should subside shortly.
Acupuncture needles are very fine—typically between 0.12 mm and 0.30 mm in diameter. They are much thinner than hypodermic needles and are inserted at different depths depending on the treatment area and the condition being addressed.
You may feel a quick, mild prick or nothing at all during the initial insertion. Once the needle is in place, it’s common to experience sensations such as a dull ache, light pressure, tingling, warmth, or a gentle flow of energy. These are normal and usually indicate that the treatment is working. If you feel discomfort, let the practitioner know—it can often be resolved with a simple adjustment.
Every person’s condition is unique. Factors such as age, symptoms, medical history, family history, and lifestyle all influence recovery. While acupuncture is highly effective for many, results can vary. We recommend booking an appointment for a personalized assessment to better understand how acupuncture can support your specific health needs.
Insurance coverage is accepted for selected plan and services. However, eligibility may vary depending on the details of your specific plan. We strongly encourage you to contact our office to verify your insurance benefits prior to your appointment. We will be happy to assist you in determining your coverage and altering any related questions.