top of page

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What can Acupuncture treat?
    Acupuncture has the ability to treat any and all conditions ranging from acute to chronic. While the most success is bred from treating diseases preventatively, maintenance plans are also highly successful. A condensed list of conditions that are treated can be found here, but a more comprehensive list can be discussed in your initial consultation.
  • Is Acupuncture Safe?
    Yes! Acupuncture is used by millions of Americans every year. Acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education, including detailed study of human anatomy and training in Clean Needle Technique. I have passed comprehensive national board examinations administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and am licensed by the state. As required by law, I use pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles to ensure your complete safety.
  • What training do we have?
    Comprehensive training in traditional differential diagnosis and proper treatment methods requires that a Diplomate of Acupuncture (NCCAOM) completes three to four academic years of education at the master’s degree level in an acupuncture program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM). ACAOM is the only accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education as the authority for quality education and training in acupuncture and Oriental medicine. In addition to graduation from an ACAOM accredited program, a Diplomate of Acupuncture (NCCAOM) must demonstrate professional competency by passing NCCAOM certification examinations in Foundations of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture, and Biomedicine. National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. 2017, http://www.nccaom.org/about-the-medicine/. Accessed 10 Nov. 2017.
  • What is a Diplomate of Acupuncture?
    A Diplomate of Acupuncture is an acupuncturist who is certified by the National Certification Commission of Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). It is a considerable professional achievement to earn the designation Diplomate of Acupuncture (NCCAOM). NCCAOM certification indicates to employers, patients, and peers that one has met national standards for the safe and competent practice of acupuncture as defined by the acupuncture and Oriental medicine (AOM) profession. National board certification in acupuncture has been the mark of excellence in AOM since the inception of the Commission in 1982. Every certified NCCAOM Diplomate must abide by the NCCAOM® Code of Ethics. National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. 2017, http://www.nccaom.org/about-the-medicine/. Accessed 10 Nov. 2017.
  • What does Acupuncture feel like?
    Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will feel like hypodermic injections at the doctor’s office. They won't. Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that you will hardly feel when I insert them. When I gently stimulate the needles they may produce a unique sensation that Oriental medicine calls de qi. Patients often describe de qi as a heavy, achy pressure, or spreading, traveling feeling. You may also feel an "electrical" sensation moving down the meridian pathways, though this is less common. Most patients find these acupuncture sensations deeply satisfying and leave the treatment feeling relaxed both mentally and physically.
  • Can children get Acupuncture?
    Yes. In fact, we see a lot of children in our practice, from infants to teenagers.
bottom of page