How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest and most commonly used medical procedures in the world. Your body is governed by 12 different meridians that control specific functions. These meridians run through the body like a highway system. Blockages of Qi (energy) or deficiencies or excesses of Qi cause illness and disease. Acupuncture regulates the flow of Qi and helps your body restore, heal and rebuild itself naturally.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are inserted to various depths at strategic points on your body. The needles are very thin, so insertion usually causes little discomfort. In fact, people often don't feel them inserted at all! A typical treatment uses 5 to 20 needles. You may feel a mild aching sensation when a needle reaches the correct depth. needles are single use, sterile, stainless steel, and the size of a human hair. Each person experiences acupuncture differently. Some people feel nothing and others feel a slight pressure, twitch, a tiny pinch, and sometimes a warming or cooling sensation. Each acupuncture point may have a different sensation as well.

Acupuncture should never be painful - needles can be adjusted to ensure you are comfortable during your treatment.

Who can perform acupuncture?

Acupuncturists hold at least a master's degree in their field. After completing 3-4 years of graduate school, a series of national boards must be passed. Practitioners then become registered on the board of medical practice.

Will my insurance cover it?

Elevate Acupuncture & Wellness is not in network with any insurance companies. We do not submit bills directly to insurance companies, but we are happy to provide you with a receipt of your payment to submit on your own for reimbursement.

Helpful Tips:

Use your FSA/HSA accounts. Please check with your fund administrator regarding this option.
You may be able to include the fees as a medical expense as part of your itemized deductions on your tax returns. You can check with your accountant about this option.

Where can I expect needles to be placed?

With more than 360 acupuncture points in the body, each treatment is different based on the what the patient needs.

For example, one of the commonly used points for shoulder pain is on the lower leg! It is our goal to ensure you're never surprised and know exactly what to expect throughout your treatment.

What should I wear to my appointment?

We recommend that patients wear comfortable clothes. If you are in work clothes that don't provide much stretch, no worries! Your acupuncturist will have extra sheets or a gown available so you're comfortable and covered throughout your appointment. Depending on the points selected, you may not need to remove any clothing at all.

It is recommended that you arrive a couple minutes early for your appointment so you can go into your treatment with a relaxed body and mind.