Nope. It is so gentle that even kids love it! There are some forms of acupuncture that use intense stimulation that can be uncomfortable for some. But we do gentle acupuncture that helps just as much as the more intense types. In fact, if it feels uncomfortable, it goes against what we are trying to achieve which is deep relaxation and healing.

There are many theories as to how it is working, such as that the needles are stimulating the nerves, or are creating micro-injuries that engage the system to increase circulation. The exact mechanism of how it is working is still under investigation. But study after study shows that it does work for many many conditions both long-term and acute. A simple way to understand how it works is to imagine a river. When the water is flowing smoothly, the river is healthy and strong. The water is clean and clear. But when there is some kind of blockage, like a dam, the water gets stagnant. It can run slower. It can get muddy. It can even get mucky and stinky. Someone could test the water and the soil to figure out what organisms there are, what is causing the stench. Or, by simply fixing or removing the blockage the water will start to flow again. As it flows smoothly, the mud and the muck disappear. As the river is flowing smoothly again, the water is clear and healthy. That is much like our bodies. Blockages, which can be caused by chronic tension, injuries or other stressors, can cause pain, anxiety and even disease. Acupuncture works by clearing the blockages to restore health and balance naturally. Acupuncture can be used as a stand alone treatment for many ailments but is most often used in combination with western medicine treatments. There are hundreds and hundreds of current scientific studies proving its safety and effectiveness. It used in medical clinics, hospitals and even spas for pain, nausea from cancer treatments, allergies, migraines, anxiety, depression, digestion disorders and infertility, just to name a few. When treating conditions that have been present for a while, it is recommended to get acupuncture 1-2 times a week at first, and then less and less often as your symptoms decrease. It depends on how long you’re had the condition, how severe it is and how your body responds to the treatments. Some issues can be resolved in one or two sessions, but often it may take longer for long-term problems, Many people find total relief from conditions, while some get better for a long time but require occasional sessions to keep them symptom free. Much like a massage, Acupuncture can also be done as a one-time treatment to de-stress and relax, or to help an acute condition. It can also be done on a more regular routine to keep you feeling great- much like a regular tune-up on your car. It is remarkably relaxing and rejuvenating and feels great. You will feel like you’ve had a mini-vacation.

Yes. They even use acupuncture in hospitals and on young kids.

Some people do not feel anything particular but they feel the results. Many people feel deep relaxation, some feel energized. Some people might feel energy moving around their bodies or an ebb and flow, like waves coming in and out. Some people feel a heaviness and some people feel a kind of numbness. There are many different experiences and all are normal.

No. It is not religion. You do not have to even have an open mind. It works on animals and children who likely have no belief about it one way or another.

There can be a slight bruise around a needle site on occasion. There can be a drop or two of blood. Some people have a slight aggravation of symptoms for a short time but it then dissipates and they feel much better than before. If you haven’t eaten enough, you may get light headed.

No, they work simply by stimulating the acupuncture points to increase circulation and restore balance.

No. It works regardless of whether you feel it working or not. You’ll know its working by how you feel afterwards or by the decrease of any symptoms you may have had.

It depends on what’s going on. For severe and long standing conditions, you may need 1-2 sessions for a few weeks with less and less sessions as you get better. It also can be done on an as-needed basis to de-stress and rejuvenate, or treat a newer condition.

Some conditions never come back while some more chronic conditions are gone but may come back now and again and would require another treatment. Some degenerative diseases are kept from progressing with regular acupuncture.

Yes. Most states have a rigorous licensing process that includes 3-4 years of education from an accredited school, passing national examinations and a thorough background check. Every state has their own bylaws, but they are similar in educational and background requirements.

Qi, Chi or Ki is the name given to the energy that flows in the body, through the organs and all systems. It also refers to your Life-force and vitality.

To be an insurance based practice requires hiring an insurance billing specialist. Many insurance companies do not pay enough to even cover that cost, let alone the practitioner and the office expenses. They also dictate how many treatments you need, how much time we can spend with you, and what conditions we are allowed to be reimbursed for. They often reject claims multiple times which also costs more time and therefore more money. Some acupuncturists do submit their own claims, but most offices that do submit claims, have several practitioners. I am doing my best to offer the most affordable healthcare that I can. It may change in the future, but for now, this is my system.

Yes, it is very safe during pregnancy. In fact, some doctors and midwives often recommend it to naturally help with conditions like morning sickness, pain, anxiety and heartburn throughout the pregnancy. But check with your healthcare provider before undergoing any treatments.

Babies & Kids can get tremendous relief colic, allergies, colds & flus, respiratory conditions & even stress & anxiety. Beside it is so gentle, kids love it. We call the needles "antennas" for less of a fear factor using the needle word.

Tweens & teens often have hormonal changes which can be uncomfortable and scary. They also have colds, flus, allergies, stomach issues, anxiety & sleep problems. They also can have sports injuries.