Frequently Asked Questions
+ Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Generally, No! It's not uncommon to feel a quick pinch with the initial needle insertion- but this quickly fades. Patients will sometimes report a heavy, dull or distending feeling around the needle site, or sometimes a tingling or warm sensation. This feeling dissipates once the needles are removed, though in some instances it can persist for minutes to hours after a treatment. In any case, its temporary.
+How long before I start to feel better/ How many treatments will I need?
Following treatment its common to feel a deep sense of relaxation, calm, and grounded. This is a "side effect" of acupuncture and a desired effect which can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Duration of treatment depends on several factors including how long a specific condition has been going on for (acute vs. chronic), if the condition is related to an injury, is more insidious in nature or genetic, and how widespread the condition is. While it is not possible to predict an exact number of treatments, generally, weekly visits for 4-6 weeks for noticeable change is standard. After that time, if a condition has not improved or has plateaued, a change of treatment strategy is implemented. For more chronic conditions you may have to come in for treatment twice weekly. As a condition improves the frequency of your visits decreases to more of a "maintenance" schedule.
+Do you accept insurance?
Yes. Some health insurance plans are accepted. For a full list visit the INSURANCE AND PRICING section. Or click HERE
+ What does Acupuncture treat?
The most common use of acupuncture in the U.S. is for the treatment and management of pain. However, acupuncture can remedy much more than that. A very short list of conditions that are successfully treated include insomnia, hypertension, nausea and vomiting (especially during pregnancy or after chemotherapy), allergies, anxiety, stress, and headaches. Nearly all patients report an improved mood and overall sense of increased well-being with regular treatment.
+ Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes!
Associated risks with acupuncture are extremely low when performed by a trained, licensed, competent practitioner. Only sterile single- use needles are used and all required cleanliness standards are maintained in the clinic. Very minor adverse events may occur such slight bleeding or bruising at insertion site, dizziness or light-headedness, or local tenderness. Infection and nerve damage are extremely rare. It is important that you make the practitioner aware of any preexisting medical conditions or any medications you are currently taking before the treatment.
+ What to expect
Your initial visit will run approximately 2 hours long. The first hour will be spent on a thorough, comprehensive intake and review of systems, the second hour is for the treatment itself. Please have something light to eat and drink water prior to your appointment, dress comfortably, and, do not brush or scrape your tongue the day of your treatment (absolutely brush your teeth though!). After your appointment be sure to hydrate well, and avoid caffeine and alcohol for 12-24 hours. It's not uncommon to feel sore following a treatment, especially if E-Stim was used. That soreness will subside within a day or so.
Follow-up visits will run about an hour to an hour 30 minutes.
If you have been prescribed herbs, Dr. Courtney will explain the appropriate dosage and frequency at the time of treatment.
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