How does acupuncture work?
According to Traditional East Asian Medicine theory, it works by regulating Qi and Blood through the insertion of very thin needles into strategic points on your body.
Contemporary research studies help explain ancient medical theory in the modern biomedical perspective.
Endorphin Release: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. This can contribute to pain reduction and an overall sense of well-being.
Neurotransmitter Regulation: Acupuncture influences the release and activity of neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. For example, it may affect serotonin and noradrenaline levels, which can have mood-regulating effects.
Gate Control Theory: According to the gate control theory of pain, acupuncture stimulates nerve fibers that interfere with pain signals, essentially "closing the gate" to pain perception.
Modulation of Inflammation: Some studies suggest that acupuncture may have anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the release of cytokines and other immune system components.
Blood Flow and Microcirculation: Acupuncture influences blood flow and microcirculation in the body. Improved circulation can contribute to tissue healing and recovery.
Connective Tissue Stimulation: Acupuncture needles directly stimulate connective tissue, leading to local and systemic effects. This stimulation might influence the transmission of mechanical signals and cellular responses.
What can I expect during a treatment session?
Acupuncture sessions begin with a comprehensive interview and physical examination. During the first visit your practitioner will ask you about your medical history as well as your current health condition. The interview process is shorter during follow up visits and focuses on changes since the previous treatment, as well as feedback about the treatment. As part of the physical exam, the practitioner will feel your pulse, look at your tongue, and use orthopedic tests to evaluate your muscular-skeletal condition or injury if necessary. After a thorough assessment, the acupuncture treatment will begin. Anywhere between 2 and 20 needles are used at a time. The needles are left in for up to 40 minutes, during which time patients may relax or nap.
Do you accept insurance?
I do not accept insurance at this time, however, I do accept HSA and FSA card payments. I am actively working on being credentialed by some of the larger providers. Please, check back in towards the end of 2026.
To make my services accessible to as many as possible, trades and sliding scale rates can be established with me on a case by case basis. Don’t hesitate to reach out in an email.
Does acupuncture hurt? Is it safe?
The needles I use are very thin 0.2 - 0.25mm. In comparison, vaccine needles are 0.64mm and blood draw needles are 1.27mm. You may not even feel the needle.
I use single use needles and am clean needle technique certified. I take safety very seriously, and aim to have every patient walking out the door feeling better than when they came in.
Acupuncture is safe and beneficial if you are:
Pregnant
Undergoing treatment for cancer
Immunocompromised or have an autoimmune disorder
On blood thinners