Services
Acupuncture
Acupuncture uses thin, sterile, single-use needles placed at chosen points on the body. Your acupuncturist decides the points after listening to you, then explains them before any needle goes in.
Who usually comes in
People of many ages come in, often with a stiff back, neck or shoulders, or a week that left them tense. Some come because a friend or their doctor suggested it, and some because their plan has an acupuncture benefit.
What a visit is like, in order
Afterward you may feel relaxed, sleepy or lightly sore. A small bruise can show up at a needle site.
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Step 1: We talk
Your acupuncturist asks about your health, your medicines and what you hope for, and looks at your tongue and pulse.
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Step 2: You get comfortable
You lie on a padded table, clothed or draped. Loose clothing that rolls up past the knee and the elbow is enough.
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Step 3: The needles go in
Needles are placed at a few points and left in for about 20 to 30 minutes. Say so right away if anything is uncomfortable.
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Step 4: You rest
The room is quiet, and the acupuncturist checks in. When it is over we take the needles out and talk about next steps.
Tell us first
Say any of these when you book, and again at the visit.
Pregnancy
If you are or might be pregnant, some points are avoided and your acupuncturist explains the risks.
Blood thinners or bleeding
If you take a blood thinner or bleed easily, bruising is more likely.
A pacemaker or implant
Some visits use a small electrical current on the needles, and that is not suitable with a pacemaker.
Lymph nodes removed
If you have had lymph nodes removed, we avoid needles on that side.
Worry about needles
Say so, and we can begin with other methods or go very slowly.
How many visits, and what this does not do
Your acupuncturist suggests a plan after the first visit and looks at it again as you go. It depends on your goals and how you respond, and you can stop whenever you like.
What it does not do
Acupuncture does not replace your doctor's care, and we do not prescribe medicine or ask you to stop yours. We do not promise a result: people respond differently.
When to see a doctor instead
See your doctor or an urgent care clinic first for chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness or numbness, a sudden severe headache, or a fever with a stiff neck. In an emergency, call 911.