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Frequently Asked Questions

How should I prepare for my treatment?

It's best to have a meal or snack within 4 hours of your treatment, but not a huge meal just before. Please wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily. Clothing that easily rolls up to your elbows and knees is preferred as well as tank tops for back, shoulder and neck access. Proper draping will be used as needed.

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How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments varies from person to person. Treatment frequency depends on your current state of health as well as the severity and duration of your problem. Chronic conditions usually take longer to treat than acute ones. Ideally, we are able to resolve your initial concerns within 4-6 sessions and roll into a maintenance schedule of monthly or biweekly visits to keep you at your most vibrant and resilient health. 

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Does acupuncture hurt?

The sensations people feel with acupuncture varies. Some people may feel a little pinch as the needles are inserted and some may feel nothing at all. The needles are very thin and flexible, just a little larger than a dog or cat’s whisker. Sometimes you may feel a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or dull ache. Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle or different parts of their body. This is called the “Qi sensation”. All these sensations are good and a sign that the treatment is working. Side effects of acupuncture may include bruising, numbness or unpleasant tingling near the needle site. Rarely dizziness or fainting may occur.

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How safe is acupuncture? Is acupuncture safe in pregnancy?

Acupuncture is extremely safe. Treatments can leave you feeling energized or deeply relaxed with a deep sense of well-being. All needles used are sterile, used once, and then discarded in a bio-hazard medical waste container, so there is little danger of infection. Acupuncture has many benefits for pregnancy, however there are some points that are contraindicated. Be sure to disclose if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

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What can I do to get the most out of my treatments? 
You can contribute tremendously to your treatment goals with dietary, lifestyle, self care improvements, all of which we'll talk about throughout your course of treatment. I also offer Chinese Herbal Medicine that can be helpful for more systemic, long term conditions.
 

Do you take insurance? What forms of payment are accepted?

There are a growing number of health insurance companies who cover acupuncture. I do not bill insurance companies on your behalf and am not an in-network provider for any insurance companies. Payment is expected at the time of service, detailed receipts (called a superbly) will be provided if you wish to submit to your insurance company to request reimbursement. Accepted forms of payment: Cash, Check, Credit/Debit, Venmo, PayPal and Flexible Health Savings cards.

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What training and licensing do acupuncturists have?

All acupuncturists in New Hampshire must be licensed from the NH Board of Acupuncture. In order to be licensed, all must graduate from an accredited school, pass National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) board exams after completing over 1900 hours of coursework, 950 hours of clinical hours, and achieve "Clean Needle Technique" certification. Additionally, continuing education hours must be met to renew state acupuncture licensure every two years and four years for NCCAOM status. 

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If you’d like to learn more about Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, here are some books I recommend:​

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