How can I prepare for my first visit?
Please download and fill out the New Patient Intake, Informed Consent and HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices forms found on our Facilities page. Wear loose-fitting clothes that can be easily removed. Be sure to eat a small meal or snack before coming.

What might I expect from an acupuncture treatment?
Acupuncture needles are extremely fine (approx .2 mm). They feel nothing like a hyperdermic needle doctors use for injections. When the needles are inserted you may experience a sensation of tingling or warmth. People are often surprised to find that treatments are actually quite relaxing. In general, the effect of acupuncture is gentle with minimum side effects.

Are the needles sterile?
Yes. All needles used are individually packaged, sterile, and disposed of after single use.

How long do treatments last?
An initial visit will last 1 – 1 ½ hours. This will include consultation, evaluation and treatment. Follow-up appointments will last between 45 minutes to 1 hour.

How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments needed varies from patient to patient, depending on severity and duration of disease, patient lifestyle and compliance. Usually, patients should come for treatment twice a week for the first few weeks, then once a week when the patient improves. When the condition is stabilized, the patient can come once every two weeks or once a month for maintenance. It is advisable for patients to come in for periodic check-ups to prevent future problems.

Can Chinese medicine be used with medication and Western medical care?
Chinese medicine can be used in conjunction with Western medicine. Patients should inform their practitioner about the medication they are taking. As acupuncture treatment progresses, the need for drugs may decrease and with the consent of patient’s physician, the patient may be able to discontinue medication.

Will acupuncture benefit the skeptic?
Yes. Acupuncture is not a placebo. Its effects will be noticeable even in the skeptic.

Is acupuncture effective on children?
Yes. Often times children respond faster than adults to Chinese medicine. Many respond to the use of moxa, acupressure or manual therapy without the use of needles.