FAQs
What does acupuncture help with?
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Almost everything! Acupuncture has well-documented and researched success with all kinds of pain, both chronic and acute, from knee pain to back pain to generalized chronic pain and fibromyalgia. It can help with digestive issues, sleep issues, headaches, menstrual issues, TMJ and allergies. Acupuncture is also great for supporting your mental health, whether you suffer from depression and/or anxiety, grief, stress, etc. It can also help with fertility, whether you’re trying to conceive with or without medical intervention. The list goes on! If you have questions about whether acupuncture can help with your particular situation, please contact us!
Does acupuncture hurt?
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Acupuncture should never be uncomfortable past the initial insertion of the pin. You may notice the pin on insertion, but the tiny thin gauge needles that we use are not painful like an injection or blood draw. Once they are in, you may sometimes notice a feeling of warmth or pressure, but it should be comfortable.
What should I expect during my first treatment?
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During your first treatment we’ll be doing an intake evaluation, which is usually around a 20 minute chat about what you’re coming in for and your health history. I’ll ask about your pain, your digestive system, sleep, diet, etc. I might take your pulse and ask to look at your tongue. Then we’ll start treatment! I might do some cupping on your back, particularly if you’re having tension or pain in that area, then we’ll do a couple rounds of points. Points might be on your back, belly, arms and legs, or head. Comfortable clothing helps with accessing the points. And if you’re uncomfortable with points in any part of your body, no problem, let me know, we can choose a different point location.
Stay tuned! I am in the process of credentialing with Carefirst and Aetna. It is a LONG process, but hopefully very soon I can say “Yes!”
In the meantime, I can accept FSA and HSA cards, and I’m happy to give you a receipt that you can submit to insurance on your own to try to get reimbursement.