Questions people ask first

Most people feel a quick pinch, a dull ache or a heavy, warm feeling, and some feel nothing at the point. The needles are much thinner than the ones used for shots. If anything feels like too much, tell your acupuncturist and they will adjust or stop.

Yes. We use sterile, single-use needles from sealed packs, and used needles go into a sharps container. Risks are small, and your acupuncturist explains them first: soreness, light bruising, feeling light-headed and, rarely, bleeding or infection.

Tell the front desk. We would rather work something out than have you skip care, and nobody asks you to explain or to show proof of income.

Your acupuncturist suggests a plan on your first visit, for example visits close together at first and then fewer. It is a suggestion, not a promise, and results vary. You can change the plan or stop at any time.

Wear sleeves and trousers that roll up, and bring a sweater. Eat something light first. Everyone stays dressed.

About 75 minutes: a few forms, a short talk with your acupuncturist, and about an hour resting in your chair. Many people doze, and that is fine.

We don't bill insurance. Some plans pay you back for acupuncture, so ask your plan whether it has an acupuncture benefit, how many visits it allows, whether you owe a copay or deductible and whether you need a referral. We give you an itemized receipt on request. For an HSA or FSA card, ask your plan administrator.

Tell us if you are or might be pregnant before the first needle. Your acupuncturist will skip some points and explain what they do instead. Please let your doctor or midwife know you are coming.

No. Keep taking everything your prescriber gave you, and tell us all that you take. Acupuncture works alongside your doctor's care, never in place of it.

It does not replace medical care. See a doctor first for chest pain, sudden weakness or numbness, a sudden severe headache, a high fever or anything new that scares you, and call 911 in an emergency. If you are struggling with your mood or thinking of hurting yourself, call or text 988.