Frequently Asked Questions

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Acupuncture is the act of stimulating specific points on the body with thin, sterile needles, to trigger the release of natural chemicals in the body, such as endorphins, that reduce pain and inflammation, promote healing, and improve overall well-being.

Recent scientific studies have found that acupuncture can also affect the nervous system by stimulating sensory nerves under the skin and muscles, which can trigger a response in the brain and spinal cord. This response can then activate the body's natural pain relief system and promote healing.

Acupuncture is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, anxiety, depression, digestive disorders, and infertility, among others. While the exact mechanisms of how acupuncture works are continually being studied, its effectiveness has been well-documented and it is increasingly being integrated into mainstream medicine as a complementary therapy.

Sessions typically last 45-60 minutes and may combine several styles of acupuncture, depending on the patient's needs.  

Most people experience deep relaxation during a session. After the needles are in place it's common for us to leave the room for approximately 20-30 minutes to let you relax.  A call button is available should you need immediate attention.

​If you are uncomfortable lying down, or staying in one position for more than approximately 20 minutes, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate. Recliners may also be available.

It's a good idea to wear loose fitting or comfortable clothing such as exercise clothing to your acupuncture appointment. We often can treat a patient using only the lower legs and lower arms, but occasionally we need to access other areas.  We will provide gowns or other coverings on request.

Avoid alcohol or caffeine before your appointment.  You should eat a small meal or snack before your appointment. Continue taking all medications as prescribed by your medical provider.  You will be asked for a list of your current medications.

This is difficult to answer because some people have much more sensitivity than others.  I can say that most people describe the feeling as equivalent to plucking out a hair, and any discomfort goes away within seconds.  Be sure to tell us if anything is uncomfortable and we will immediately make adjustments, or remove the needle.  

During the session, you will be asked to provide feedback on what you are feeling.  Once the needles are in place, most people feel a dull ache, tingling or feeling of heaviness or numbness around the area where the needle is. In acupuncture, it's considered a very good thing to have some sensations like this, and we call it the "De Qi" sensation.  (pronounced "DA-chee").   

Removing the needles is painless, and usually the points do not bleed after.  If there does happen to be some minor bleeding, it might result in a small bruise that goes away within a few days.  If you are on any blood thinning medication, please disclose this to your acupuncturist at your first appointment. 

If someone is really scared of needles, we will be compassionate and answer any questions they have, and do what we can to make them more comfortable with the idea.   If they really can't get past the fear, we will adapt and stimulate the points using a very low-voltage electrical point stimulator instead of the needles.  This creates a mild "buzzing" sensation at the point, and most people find it very pleasant.  Low level laser tools can also be used to stimulate the acupuncture points instead of needles. 

Yes, I accept patients age 8 and above. Parents or guardians are permitted in the acupuncture room during the appointment.

My practice does not currently accept health insurance.  Fees are listed on the pricing page and payment is due at time of the appointment.  If you are a Veteran, contact us to see if you may use your VA Benefits through the Community Care Program.

Other acupuncturists may accept health insurance.  Check with your individual plan to see who may be in-network.  In Pennsylvania, worker's compensation and auto injury cases are typically covered, however I am currently not accepting any new worker's compensation or auto injury cases.

Usually not. Acupuncture very gently prods your body to make changes in your own natural chemistry and hormone functions. It stimulates natural pain blockers and anti-inflammatory substances in order to bring your body back to a state of balance.  Occasionally, you may see general changes in appetite, sleep, bowel or urination patterns, or even emotional states, in the days following a treatment.  These are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work, and should not cause concern.  It is however quite common with the first one or two treatments to have a sensation of deep relaxation or even mild disorientation immediately following the treatment, which passes in a short time.


Acupuncture is the original "dry needling".  The term "dry needling" is a recently coined modern term used by physical therapists or other types of practitioners who are not licensed in acupuncture.  

The act of inserting a non-medicated (dry) needle into the skin, whether it be into an "acu-point" or a muscle, falls under the scope of acupuncture practice.  Sports Medicine Acupuncturists are highly trained in identifying and evaluating patterns of structural imbalance in the body, and using needles to release these areas that have locked them into mechanical imbalances and ultimately, pain.   A skilled acupuncturist with thousands of hours of trigger point release training is very effective for issues caused  by muscular constriction.  

Acupuncturists specialize in different "styles" of acupuncture, so it's always best to contact the acupuncturist and ask if they have experience with your particular complaint before your first appointment.