Acupuncture FAQ's
So How Is It Done?
Very thin needles are placed into several acupuncture points. The needles are typically retained from 20-40 min. Sometimes electric stimulation is used. This is not a painful sensation, mostly a pulsing sensation.
How Big Are The Needles?
They are quite thin. This is not a blood draw situation. In fact, about 18 acupuncture needles can fit inside a single hypodermic needle (a blood draw needle).
Does It Hurt?
Typically, no. However, there are certainly more sensitive points on the body (think hands, feet, face) as well as more sensitive people in general. So, it all plays a role. However, any discomfort you may feel should dissipate within a minute or two and should not continue for the whole session.
Why Are You Putting Needles In My Feet When My Head Hurts?
The most potent points on the meridian pathways reside in the hands & feet. And the pathways of some of these channels can run from the head to the feet. I promise, there is always a reason!
What Is The Difference Between Acupuncture & Dry Needling?
Honestly, beyond the needle, there is not much that is similar. Dry needling is using an acupuncture type needle (but usually a little thicker and longer) to release muscle and fascia. Think massage on steroids. It’s a quick release that packs a big punch. Though it works exceedingly well, it is typically far less comfortable than acupuncture. Acupuncture isn’t used to release tissue but to balance your body’s Qi. If you are looking for musculoskeletal pain relief, expect to have a blend of acupuncture and dry needling. Generally, acupuncture alone will not get you the results you're seeking.
How Long Will It Take To Feel A Difference?
It really depends. I would love to give a specific number, but that’s very difficult. Some people see changes after the first session and with others it takes at least 4-6 visits. I would plan on a minimum of 4-8 visits; more if the issue is chronic or severe.
Do I Have To Continue To Come For The Changes To Stick?
Once your body is in balance, you do not have to continue to come; however, most find that coming monthly or quarterly is helpful for maintenance.
What Other Modalities Do You Use?
There are all sorts of modalities to help augment your acupuncture session. Moxa is used to help warm the channels, cupping & gua sha to move stagnant Qi, as well as bleeding to help clear heat & move blood (it's not as scary as you think!).
What Will My Treatment Be Like?
Your initial evaluation will start with a detailed discussion about your current concerns. Then you will get a full treatment. This includes 2 infrared lamps (if you prefer), a heated table with freshly laundered sheets, soothing music and calming scents on the diffuser. You may just find it difficult to wake up!
What Types of Conditions Do You Treat?
Please feel free to check out my various condition pages under the acupuncture and herbal medicine tab. However, I love to support women's health in all forms: menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms, digestive health and mental health.
Pricing
Acupuncture Initial Evaluation: $150
Acupuncture Treatment Session: $125
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All sessions are 60 minutes
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Some insurances do cover acupuncture, please check with yours to find out prior to your session. If your insurance covers only certain ailments, please let me know at the time of the session. Superbills are available upon request.
Proudly providing physical therapy, acupuncture & herbal medicine and yoga to the Washington DC Metro Region, including: Annandale, Fairfax, Alexandria, Arlington, Washington DC & Maryland.