Services
Acupuncture
Acupuncture uses fine, 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 neck or back after a long commute, or a week that left them tense. Some come because a relative 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, looks at your tongue, and feels your pulse and your abdomen.
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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 on the arms, legs, back and abdomen 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 your 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, which 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. We can begin with other methods or go very slowly.
Any medicine or supplement
Bring a list of everything you take, so your acupuncturist knows before choosing points.
How many visits, and what this does not do
Your acupuncturist suggests a plan after the first visit, often a few visits close together and then more space between them, 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. We do not prescribe medicine or ask you to stop yours, and we do not promise a result: people respond differently.
When to see a doctor instead
See your doctor or an urgent care center 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.