Everything you need to know before your first visit.
Most patients do not experience discomfort. The needles are extremely thin and most find treatments very relaxing. If sensations are felt, they are generally light. Treatments can -always- be altered for sensitive patients and the doctor encourages you to communicate your needs to her.
Please see our “Treatments” Page for details on what acupuncture can treat. Chinese Medicine is a thorough and complete system of healthcare, which can be utilized to treat musculoskeletal disorders, organ system dysfunction, hormonal regulation, issues of the spirit (psycho-emotional and nervous system support), and much more. We recommend scheduling a free phone consult if you are unsure if acupuncture and herbal medicine would be helpful for you.
Initial treatments are 1.5-2 hours long, as they involve a thorough medical/personal intake, pulse taking, tongue diagnosis, acupuncture, and any necessary body work. Lifestyle and dietary advice may also be given if necessary, as well as an herbal consult. Follow-Up treatments are about an hour long. You will have time to update your practitioner about your condition and continue with your treatment plan.
The practitioner will give you a clear, unique treatment plan that is tailored to your specific diagnosis by the end of your first treatment. This will always be re-evaluated as the patient progresses. Acupuncture is a cumulative process (like most modalities, a one-treatment fix can happen but should not be expected). The longer you have had your condition, the longer it may take to fully resolve it. For example, most patients require 2-3 treatments to resolve an acute but mild/moderate issue like a low grade muscle pull. Ongoing treats are needed for longer-term or chronic conditions. One may be recommended 1 treatment per week for 6 weeks for a chronic conditions. Or, one may be recommended 2 treatments per week for 3-4 weeks to begin for serious and deeper-rooted conditions. Frequency of treatments are then “weaned off” once the issue is under control or close to being resolved. Any concerns about treatment protocols can be discussed with the doctor. There is never pressure, pre-payment, or a requirement to complete the original treatment plan unless you are happy with your ongoing results. We want you to love your Chinese Medicine experience and let results speak for themselves.
After acupuncture, many patients feel a sense of deep relaxation. It is recommended to take it easy, not engage in strenuous activity (light walking, easy yoga, etc. is ok), and stay hydrated. Many report sleeping deeply after a treatment day. If you feel symptoms reduce longer-term or temporarily, these are good signs. However, noticeable results may be more obvious into the 2nd and 3rd treatments. If you are being treated in the local area of pain (orthopedic treatment), it is normal to feel some soreness after treatment at the site. Some experience mild/moderate soreness for up 48 hours after treatment (especially if it is their first time) but it is expected for inflammation to subside and the tissues to relax after this time. Following this, patients report feeling much better than when they came into the office. Many feel benefit right away, with increased range of motion and reduced pain getting off of the table. If pain resolves or lessens 1-3 days after treatment, this is a delayed response to acupuncture that is normal and expected, also. If there are any concerns about soreness or what to expect, please reach out to the doctor.
Currently, we do not take insurance. However, we will offer a sliding scale for veterans, elders, and anyone who may need assistance. Please inquire at the first session or at any time if life circumstances change. We strive to make Chinese Medicine more accessible and a life-long healthcare option for our community in a world where insurance and healthcare are not meeting our needs.
Please see the scheduling portal for all of our fees. Adult, new patients/initial treatments are $185 and follow up treatments are $105.
Our cancellation policy must be signed at your first appointment. Any appointments cancelled within 24 hours will be charged the full amount for the service they are scheduled for. This excludes emergencies and illnesses (although we encourage you to come in if you are sick to be treated, as long as you are comfortable wearing a provided mask to not spread germs).