acupuncture Faq’s
Acupuncture FAQ
1. What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and balance. It's used to treat pain, inflammation, stress, and a wide range of other health conditions. Acupuncture is a tool that regulates the nervous system and restores homeostasis within the physical and emotional body. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) modalities include Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine and Tui Na Bodywork.
2. How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture stimulates the body’s nervous system, promoting blood flow, reducing inflammation, and triggering the release of endorphins (your body’s natural painkillers). It also helps regulate the autonomic nervous system, supporting the body's shift from a “fight-or-flight” state to a relaxed, healing state. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, acupuncture moves Qi (energy) through pathways called meridians or channels, helping to restore balance and health.
The Acupuncture channel system is closely related to the following:
Vascular System (blood and vessels)
Nervous System (brain, spinal cord, peripheral branches and nerve plexus)
Limbic System (emotional and behavioral)
Enteric System (gastrointestinal)
Fascia (connective tissue and muscles)
Organs (Gall Bladder, Liver, Spleen, Stomach, Intestines, Heart, Kidney)
Reproductive System (ovaries, testes)
3. What conditions can acupuncture help with?
Acupuncture is commonly used to treat chronic pain (like low back pain, neck pain, arthritis, and headaches), anxiety, stress, insomnia, digestive issues, fertility concerns, and symptoms related to autoimmune and hormonal imbalances. It’s also used as a supportive therapy in cancer care, post-surgery recovery, and more.
4. Is acupuncture painful?
No—acupuncture needles are extremely thin, much finer than needles used for injections or blood draws. Most people feel little to no pain. You may feel a slight tingling, warmth, or pressure, which is a sign that the body is responding to the treatment.
5. How often should I get acupuncture?
Treatment frequency depends on your condition and health goals. For acute issues, 1–2 sessions per week may be recommended. Chronic conditions often benefit from a regular schedule (weekly) for several weeks. Once symptoms improve, treatments can be spaced out for maintenance or prevention.
6. How many sessions will I need?
Some people feel better after just 1–3 sessions, while others with long-standing conditions may need 6–10 or more. Acupuncture is cumulative, meaning results build over time with consistency.
7. Why is acupuncture now recommended by physicians?
Many physicians now recommend acupuncture because research shows it is safe, non-invasive, and effective—especially for chronic pain, anxiety, and stress-related conditions. It can reduce the need for medication, support recovery, and improve quality of life. Leading organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognize its benefits, and Medicare and many insurance plans now cover acupuncture for certain conditions.
8. Does insurance cover acupuncture?
We do not participate in insurance, however some insurance companies will accept a superbil, which is a receipt with codes for your treatment. It is up to the patient to call their insurance providers and find out what exactly is covered on their plan, and how many sessions they will pay for. Patients pay for their appointments in full at the date of service.
9. Are there any side effects?
Acupuncture is generally very safe when performed by a licensed practitioner. Minor side effects can include bruising, soreness, or fatigue after treatment. Serious side effects are extremely rare.
9. What should I do before and after a session?
Before your session, eat a light meal and stay hydrated. After treatment, give yourself time to rest and avoid intense physical exertion or alcohol. Listen to your body and allow the treatment to integrate.
10. How long are sessions?
A New Patient session is 90 minutes. Your health history and present symptoms are discussed, and a treatment plan is formulated. Follow up sessions are 50 minutes or 90 minutes.
11. Where can I schedule an appointment?
Our booking system is online, allowing for patients to book, cancel, and reschedule. The link is: inner-gardener.janeapp.com or simply click “schedule now” from the home page. We do not have a receptionist and receive high volume phone calls. Please text us if you can not access the online scheduler and we will help you get scheduled. All other questions, please email innergardeneracupunctre@gmail.com
12. What is the difference between dry needling and Acupuncture?
Dry needling is just one acupuncture technique. Dry needling focuses on trigger points or motor points in the muscle. Motor point needling is also performed by Acupuncturists, however it is not considered a stand alone treatment.