Acupuncture is one of the oldest specialized medical therapies, dating back over 3,000 years. It is part of the larger system of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which also includes Chinese herbs, massage, movement and nutrition.
With the insertion of thin, sterile and disposable needles into the skin at specific points on the body, acupuncturists are able to stimulate and balance the flow of Qi, or energy. When Qi is blocked or not flowing smoothly through the body’s meridians, it can lead to pain, illness, and other health problems.
Used to treat a wide range of health conditions, acupuncture has been effective in alleviating:
- chronic pain
- headaches
- menstrual cramps
- infertility
- digestive disorders
- anxiety and depression
- addiction
- allergies
- asthma
- high blood pressure.
Acupuncture is recognized throughout the world as a safe and effective form of medicine.
What to Expect
It’s easy to relax in our Community Clinic – warm, inviting, and with a handful of quiet treatment “nooks.” When you enter, choose your recliner and get comfortable. Others will be resting nearby in their own chair while the treatment is in progress. We use hushed voices and relaxing music to keep things cozy.
Clients remain fully dressed. (We recommend wearing comfortable, loose clothing.) We need only to reach your lower legs, arms, head and neck to be able to offer a full body-mind treatment.
After getting settled, one of our friendly and knowledgeable acupuncturists will come by and sit with you for a few minutes to learn what you’d like from your treatment. Between 6-12 sterile hair-thin needles will be inserted into various points. Sessions typically last for 30 minutes.
Patients describe having an active mind when the needles first go in, then settling into a more relaxed mental state or falling into a cat nap.
After Your Visit
Patients walk out feeling relaxed and recharged and often later notice subtle changes in areas that may not have been the reason for coming in. These “side effects,” i.e. improved sleep, reduced stress levels, improved immunity, are a welcome surprise.
The effectiveness will increase with frequency. Your initial treatments will only “hold” for 24-72 hours; your next visit will carry you a bit further. We cluster visits in the beginning (1-2 visit per week is common for the first few weeks of treatment) so you can begin to see results sooner.
Cost
All visits to our Community Clinic are just $35. No fine print.
While we are not able to bill your insurance for visits to the Community Clinic, you may take a receipt for services to submit for reimbursement. If using your insurance is an option you’d like to take advantage of, you may consider treatment in our One on One clinic.
You can use HSA/FSA dollars to pay for acupuncture services as it is considered a qualified medical expense. Simply use your HSA/FSA card at the time of payment or submit receipts for reimbursement.
FAQ
Acupuncture involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate
the nervous system and promote natural healing. It helps regulate the flow of energy (Qi) and can address physical, emotional, and mental health conditions.
Most people experience little to no pain during acupuncture. The needles are very fine, and sensations vary from person to person—some feel a slight pinch, tingling, or warmth. Many find the experience relaxing.
Yes, acupuncture is a safe and minimally invasive treatment when performed by a licensed practitioner. The needles used are sterile, single-use, and extremely fine.
The number of sessions varies depending on your condition. Acute issues may improve after a few treatments, while chronic conditions might require ongoing sessions for sustained results. Your practitioner will provide a treatment plan based on your individual needs.
The main difference between Community Acupuncture and One on One Acupuncture lies in the treatment setting and cost:
- Community Acupuncture takes place in a shared space with other patients, but each person still receives individualized treatment. The atmosphere is quiet and respectful, allowing for a more affordable, accessible option since the acupuncturist treats multiple people at once.
- One on One Acupuncture is done in a private room, where the practitioner gives you their undivided attention, offering personalized care and treatments tailored to your specific needs. These sessions cost more due to the individualized focus; however, they may be covered by insurance.
Both approaches are equally effective, with the choice depending on personal preference for privacy and cost.
Community acupuncture offers an affordable, accessible way to receive treatment. It fosters a sense of shared healing and community, and the lower cost often allows for more frequent treatments, which can lead to better results.
Yes, community acupuncture is just as effective. The main difference is the shared treatment space. The acupuncturist tailors each treatment to your individual needs, just as they would in a private session.