Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture needles are far different from the hypodermic needle used to give injections. The needles are solid and are inserted into the skin from 1/8 to several inches deep. They are pre-sterilized, individually packaged, disposable needles, absolutely insuring that there is no contamination or transmission of disease possible. They are usually painless upon insertion, but you may feel a slight pricking, numbness, heaviness, or distended sensation in the area around the needle when it is planted. The sensations usually last only a moment.
Acupuncture points are those areas on the body that have been shown to have an influence on pain or body function when stimulated by a needle, pressure, or heat. These points are quite small, and exact location is important for attaining maximum benefit from a given treatment. By inserting needles into points on the meridian pathways, the normal flow of energy may be restored and balanced. The points are organized into twelve classic meridians, which are named after the organ systems to which they correspond. There are also eight extra meridians which have distinct functions and address specific conditions.

Scientific research has discovered that acupuncture points show a variety of unique bioelectric properties. Stimulation of acupuncture points cause definite physiological reactions affecting brain activity, such as releasing pain killing endorphins, influencing blood pressure, enhancing the immune system, balancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and enhancing the endocrine system. Most of all, acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural ability to heal itself and regain homeostasis.

It is usually recommended that a series of six to ten treatments be given, initially. However, every case is unique, and some can be resolved in only one or two treatments.

One of the greatest advantages of acupuncture is the absence of serious side effects associated with its use. Rarely, there may be some slight bruising around the area where a needle was placed.

The initial visit usually lasts one and a half to two hours due to the time required for the extensive intake questions and examination. Follow-up treatments tend to take only one hour, but can vary depending on types of modalities used.

At the time the needle is inserted, some may feel soreness or slight pain. Others may feel nothing. Common qi sensations around the needles include: tingling, electrical sensations, which may travel above or below the needle, or a sense of swelling at the insertion site. Stimulation of needles can be done manually, or by attaching electrodes that transmit a weak current.

 

Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. If you experience discomfort during or after the treatment, it is usually mild and short term. Because the purpose of acupuncture is to balance your body, there are no long-term negative side effects. On the contrary, relaxation and a sense of well-being often occur during and after treatment. Often patients become so relaxed that they sleep during treatment.

We take all PPO plans with Acupuncture benefits. We are in network with Blue Shield, however some of their plans run through ASH, whom we are not in network with. As a courtesy, we will check your benefits, please provide us with the details of your plan here. We will get back to you within 24-48 hours.

Acupuncture:

  • New Patient Initial Exam & Treatment: Expanded 90 Minutes $185

    • Chinese medical evaluation

    • Acupuncture treatment

    • In depth review of health history

    • In depth individualized treatment plan

    • Nutrition & lifestyle evaluation

    • Herbal and supplement suggestions to treat chief complaint & regain balance

    • Lab work recommendation for disease prevention & symptom relief

*fertility, women’s health, complex health concerns, more than one health complaint

  • New Patient Initial Exam & Treatment: Standard 60 minutes $145

    • Review of chief complaint (1 only)

    • Acupuncture Treatment

*one area of pain, labor prep/induction, cold/flu, simple stress relief

  • Follow Up Acupuncture Treatment: 60 Minutes $95

    • Review of symptoms and treatment plan

    • Chinese medical evaluation

    • Acupuncture treatment

  • Packages:

    • 6 visits: $540 ($90 per visit)

    • 10 visits: $850 ($85 per visit)

    • 20 visits: $1600 ($80 per visit)

*consistent visits and follow ups yield the best results 

Cupping

  • Initial Visit: 45-60 mins $85

    • Brief intake

    • Cupping treatment

  • Follow Up: 30 mins $50

    • Cupping only

Add Ons: 

  • Massage: Spot massage 10-15 mins: $25

  • Massage 1 hour: $95

  • Massage & Acupuncture combo: $160 *existing patients only

Functional Medicine: in person or remote/online 

  • New Patient Consultation: 60 minutes $295
    • Extensive health history: 60 Mins

    • In depth individualized treatment plan

    • Review of lab work

    • Nutrition evaluation

    • Lifestyle recommendations

    • Herbal and supplement suggestions to treat chief complaint & regain balance

    • Lab work recommendation for disease prevention & symptom relief

    • 30 minute follow up in person or phone

  • Functional medicine follow up, 30 mins: 75, 60 mins: $150

    • Intake and review of symptoms

    • Adjustments to treatment plan

    • Review of labs