Frequently Asked Questions
Does it hurt?
There is often minimal to no sensation during acupuncture. The needles are hair-thin and designed to cause as little discomfort as possible. Everyone experiences acupuncture differently, but most people experience very little if any discomfort when the needle is quickly inserted through the skin. After needle insertion you may feel a heavy, achy, or tingling sensation near the needle site or along the associated meridian pathway. Or you may not feel anything at all. Certain styles, like APM, will often result in more sensation, but I will only do this style with your consent.
Are the needles sterile?
Yes. All of the acupuncture needles that I use are single-use, sterile, disposable, and stainless steel.
How many Acupuncture treatments will I need?
The effect of acupuncture is cumulative. The treatments build on each other and consistency is the key to lasting effect. The initial recommended course of treatment for chronic or long-standing conditions is one or two sessions per week for at least 6 weeks. Complex conditions may require a longer course of treatment. Acute conditions may require fewer visits. We will discuss your specific situation to determine a treatment plan.
Do you accept insurance?
We do not accept insurance.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We do not accept credit cards, however we do accept cash and checks.
What are the training requirements for an Acupuncturist in NY?
In New York state, Licensed Acupuncturists are required to undertake a course of study involving 4,050 hours of classroom instruction, supervised clinical experience, and out of classroom or out of clinic study assignments (this is a 3 - 4 year Masters degree program). This must be done at an institution with a program registered and approved by the NYS Board of Regents. In addition, to obtain a license, a NYS acupuncturist must successfully complete an examination of the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. The individual may then receive a License to Practice Acupuncture in the State Of New York. He or she will be designated L.Ac.