Q: How long does each treatment take?

A: Usually between 40 and 60 minutes, depending on the condition being treated.

Q; How many treatments will I need?

A: Treatment protocols and the frequency and duration of treatments are a matter of professional judgment and are tailored to each patient’s specific needs. A common course of treatment is usually 6-10 visits, depending on the patient's condition and presenting issues.

Q: Do I have to disrobe for acupuncture treatments?

A: No. Patients receiving acupuncture generally stay fully clothed. It is helpful, however, if light, loose clothing is worn.

Q: Does acupuncture hurt?

A: No. After the insertion of a needle, a "Qi sensation" is sometimes felt, although it is not painful. Some describe it as a feeling of heaviness, tingling, a dull achiness, or a sensation of warmth around the needle.

Q:  What is Qi?

A: Qi (pronounced chee) is the vital energy that gives us the ability to move, think and feel. Qi protects the body from illness, pain and disease. It circulates along a system of channels or meridians, and is accessed when acupuncture needles are inserted.

Q: What are the needles like? Are they safe?

A: The needles used in acupuncture treatments are solid stainless steel, not hollow and jagged like the needles used for inoculations or drawing blood. They are as thin as a human hair or cat's whisker. The needles are used only once, so there is no risk of infection.

Q: I've heard that acupuncture works for treating pain. What other conditions can it address?

A: Traditional Chinese Medicine is holistic and so treats the mind and body as a complete system, rather than separating one from the other. To see a list of conditions that may be successfully treated with acupuncture, click here.