FAQ
Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
Not at all. Acupuncture has been used successfully on cats, dogs, horses, and other animals. These animal patients clearly don’t “believe” in acupuncture but do enjoy it and get better, nevertheless. That said, a positive attitude is always helpful. Within a couple of sessions, you will be able to tell if acupuncture works for you.
Is it safe?
Certainly, safer than medications or surgery! Side effects, if present are rather minor: pinpoint bruising and/or mild soreness around the points.
Can I combine acupuncture with other therapies?
With very few exceptions, absolutely! For example, many patients combine acupuncture and medications to control surgery-related pain. As a matter of fact, acupuncture lowers the need for conventional pain-killing drugs.
Are the needles sterile?
Of course! These days, we only use single-use sterile stainless-steel needles. Communication of disease through acupuncture has not been an issue in the US.
Many patients referred to me are new to acupuncture and don’t know what to expect. Be assured that before ever laying my hands on you, I will go – in detail – over my diagnostic findings and answer your questions about the proposed treatment plan.
Is there medicine on the needle?
Not on a regular acupuncture needle. In addition to traditional acupuncture, I offer another modality, called acupuncture point injection, where I do inject vitamins or other substances into acupuncture points. But that’s not for everyone.
How many points will you use?
The number of points varies based on the complaint. I tend to be conservative and not use more than 8 points per treatment.
How deeply are the needles inserted?
That depends on the location. If this is something that stops you from trying acupuncture, I can always start with superficial needling and/or needless treatment, such as electrostimulation or laser. Whatever I do, it should not hurt!
Do I stay dressed during a session?
Usually, I can reach most of the distal points on your body by rolling up your sleeves and pants, making undressing unnecessary. Of course, wearing loose-fitting clothing makes everybody’s life easier.
What is the length of an acupuncture session?
An initial visit takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Consecutive treatments tend to be somewhat shorter, around 15 minutes. Each patient is different.
What will I feel after a treatment?
It's hard to predict. Some people get energized, while others report feeling relaxed and even sleepy. Many comment that, following a treatment, they have a very restful night's sleep. You'd have to try acupuncture to see how it affects you.
Are there any side effects?
Life has side effects. So does acupuncture - albeit exponentially less than any, even over the counter, medication or, worse, surgery. In some chronic cases, a mild aggravation of symptoms may happen at first, to be gradually replaced by improvement over the course of several weeks. Occasionally, quite strong emotional reactions to treatment, such as crying or giggling, may occur in some patients. Fainting is frequently cited by literature … but has never happened in my practice.
How many acupuncture treatments will I need?
It varies. True healing takes time and dedication. Depending on your condition, you could start feeling better right away, or you may need several treatments spread over 6 to 8 weeks. In chronic or complex cases, weekly treatments for several months may be recommended.
What about herbs?
Yes, I always recommend (but never sell or make my patients buy) herbs and supplements. Unlike Western herbs, Chinese herbs are used in specific combinations (“formulas”), as opposed to single herbs. An herbal formula may be comprised of as many as 6 to 15 herbs, acting synergistically within the formula.
Can you guarantee the results?
No. Medicine is an inherently unpredictable and inexact endeavor. You may not get well fast enough, not improve at all, or (in some exceedingly rare instances) get worse. With that in mind, there exists a no-refund policy. What I can guarantee is that I will take your symptoms seriously and adjust the treatment according to your needs.
Would I have to subscribe and pay a monthly fee to receive acupuncture?
No. I don’t believe in trapping people into using my services. Patients return to me because they find what I do beneficial. You are 100% in charge of your treatment plan and free to change or terminate it at any time.