Frequently Asked Questions

How does acupuncture work?
Does it hurt?
How long does each session last?
How many sessions should I expect?
What is the cost and will insurance cover it?
How is a diagnosis and treatment plan determined?
Do you liaise with other health care professionals?

How does acupuncture work?

Very fine sterile needles are gently inserted at points along energy pathways reflecting the specific symptom pattern of the patient. Stimulating these points encourages the body’s own healing processes by, for example, relieving pain or improving stress and inflammatory response, and blood circulation.

Does it hurt?
 
Not really, and there are several reasons for that:
1. The needles are so thin they curl if you run a thumbnail along them. Also, the needle tips are rounded so that they push the tissue to either side on insertion rather than cutting it, and so rarely cause bleeding.
2. The needle is not inserted into inflamed or tight muscles, but rather into distal points to release this pain.
3. Acupuncture generally leads to profound relaxation. Most of my patients relax very deeply, and many fall asleep while resting on the table.
 
How long does each session last?

I generally allow 2 hours for the first session for a thorough diagnosis and discussion about your health history. I may also suggest changes you might make to support your health, e.g. in diet, in breathing exercises or sleep patterns. We will also discuss the role of emotional health in your present situation. Following an exam, I give an acupuncture treatment, which often incorporates massage and heat therapy. I generally leave you to rest for 15 to 20 minutes, to allow time for relaxation. Follow-up sessions take about 1 hour.
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How many sessions should I expect?
 
Most desired change occurs in one to four sessions, especially in cases of acute pain. Many chronic conditions may take weekly treatment over a number of months. The more each person is involved with supporting their health in other ways, the less they come to rely on my care. Many of my patients return every one to two months to maintain their health.
 
What is the cost and will insurance cover it?
 
The cost is $150 for the initial intake and treatment. This consists of an in-depth conversation about your health in general and about the presenting symptoms in particular. It also includes a physical exam during which. I palpate the abdomen, take the pulses and observe the breathing. Once I have made a Traditional Chinese Medical diagnosis, I then give the patient their first acupuncture treatment and give them some time to rest. Follow up visits are $90. Some companies do cover the cost of insurance, for example, Oxford Health and Aetna. Please call your insurance company to inquire. I do not process claims but will provide receipts for you to submit.
 
How is a diagnosis and treatment plan determined?
 
First, I assess how the body is out of balance and then treat specific acupuncture points to help the body correct that imbalance.
 
Do you work with other health care professionals?
 
Yes, I refer patients to a range of other health care professionals including doctors, chiropractors, massage and craniosacral therapists, and psychotherapists.
 
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