Frequently Asked Questions
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the pillars of Chinese medicine (in China acupuncture and moxibustion are mentioned together as one concept). It regulates the body's ability to heal through the stimulation of different areas of the body with a very fine needle.
Acupuncture is used to restore the normal balance and flow of Qi (chi) so that organs and bodily systems can work together in harmony as intended.
Do acupuncture needles inject something into the body?
No.
Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid. They function by stimulating a specific point on the body. These points are located on meridians or channels that constitute a system that interconnects everything from the internal organs to the skin.
There are additional points (or areas) that are used in acupuncture which do not belong to this meridian system. These points work by stimulating holographic areas of the body or reflex zones. A good example of a reflex zone is the sole of the foot or the ear.
What are meridians?
Meridians form a highly complex invisible network that transports Qi (chi) to every cell, tissue, and organ of the body.
What is Qi (chi)?
In Chinese medicine Qi is considered the living force (the intelligence) that sustains every physiological process in the body (also in the universe). The concept of Qi is quite complex and fascinating; its the reason why we love to practice Chinese medicine. is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors.
Why is the circulation of Qi so important?
In Chinese medicine, the understanding of human physiology is based on the observation of nature (i.e. the human body microcosm, behaves as do macrocosms found in nature). When Qi stagnates due to lack of circulation, problems start to develop. For example, when the water in a creek stops running and as a result the quality of the water gets spoiled.
It is a common saying in Chinese medicine that if there is pain it’s because the Qi is not circulating, so if we promote Qi circulation and release the blockage, the pain will disappear.
Is Acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is very, very safe.
I deliver extremely safe acupuncture based on my proper, professional training (master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine); 15+ years of experience; holding a valid state license and national certification. And most importantly our dedication and commitment to our patients.
Are the needles disposed of after each use?
Yes.
Every acupuncture needle is sterile inside a package at the beginning of the treatment and is discarded after one use with one patient.
How long does each acupuncture treatment session take?
The Initial Evaluation session is usually 90 minutes but can last up to 2 hours. Time spent may vary depending on the complexity and nature of the condition.
Every standard treatment session can be divided in three parts: 1. assessment/evaluation of the condition or evolution of the condition; 2. acupuncture or placement of the needles (needling); and 3. a period of 30-40 min after the needling while the patient rests with the needles in place.
Follow-up acupuncture sessions are usually between 60- and 90-minutes total duration, again depending on the patient’s needs.
Acupuncture includes adjunctive techniques like cupping, massage, and gua sha, for example, which can be included in an acupuncture treatment session, contributing to its duration.
If our patient has time constraints, we’ll do our best to accommodate those needs, noting that 60 minutes is the minimum required time for a successful session.
How much does a treatment session cost?
Acupuncture:
The initial consultation is $120 and the follow up treatments $85.
We offer a discount on packages of 5 acupuncture treatment sessions for $350 (regular price is $425).
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Massage:
60 min massage $85
90 min massage $100