What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice of using very thin needles, piercing the skin along meridian points in the body, to treat conditions such as pain, or various other conditions.

Will the needles hurt?

Acupuncture needles are very thin and are not painful like hypodermic needles. Most patients find that there is no discomfort. The needles are retained for 20-30 minutes while you relax. The needles are sterile and are disposed of after each treatment.

What can I expect during my first visit?

Treatments are administered in a private setting. You will first sit with your practitioner and discuss the health questionnaire forms you have filled out with your health history and ongoing conditions you want treated.  You will then undress to a level you feel comfortable with, and lay on a padded treatment table, covered with sheets, and blankets if necessary.  There are heat lamps and music to keep you comfortable. Some people fall asleep during treatment, and find it relaxing.  Others are energized and feel renewed. Remember to drink plenty of water after your visit.

How should I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?

It is not recommended to receive treatment if you are very hungry and/or extremely tired. Therefore, patients should have a small meal or snack before the appointment and wear comfortable clothing. Please let us know if you are pregnant or have a pacemaker so appropriate acupuncture points can be selected. In addition, please have list of any medications you are taking.

What does acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture can help with a wide variety of conditions, ranging from pain alleviation to fertility issues.

Here’s a list of symptoms or conditions that the National Institute of Health and the World Health Organization studies have found acupuncture to be effective for:

  • Allergies, asthma, colds
  • Depression, anxiety, stress management
  • Headache, migraines, hypertension
  • Knee pain, low back pain, arthritis, and injury
  • Smoking cessation
  • And much more… You can read more about conditions we treat here.

How often will I need to come in?

The frequency of visits will be determined by your condition, and how well you are responding to treatment, and your practitioner. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ answer to this.  We do our best to make sure you get the best possible treatment. Usually a series of treatments are needed; longer treatment plans are typically required for more severe or chronic conditions. Acupuncture can be scheduled as often as daily or as little as once a month. Some patients respond after only one or two treatments, while it may take several weeks for others. Your provider will discuss with you the optimal treatment plan for your case based on your individual case.

Do you take insurance?

We do not accept insurance. Full payment is required at time of service. Note: More and more insurance companies are covering acupuncture services. If you think your health plan may cover acupuncture, we can give you an inovice for you to submit to your insurance company that has the diagnostic codes you will need to file a claim.

How much will my appointment cost?

New visits are $120, and follow ups are $80. For more information click here.

How long will my appointment be?

Your first visit may last up to 1 1/2 hours.  Please be courteous and have your health forms filled out ahead of time.  This will ensure your visit will be on time, and you can spend more time with your practitioner.  All follow up visits last about an hour.

How do I pay?

Insurance not accepted. Full payment is expected at the time of service. We accept all major credit cards.

 

We do not bill for insurance. If you have insurance that covers acupuncture (you will need to call your insurance company to determine this), we will provide you an invoice with diagnostic and treatment codes so that you may file your own insurance claim.

Gift Certificates

Our gift certificates make great gifts for anyone interested in improving their health and well-being, as well as current patients. Please email frontdesk@acuatlanta.net to inquire.

Cancellation Policy

We require 24-hour notice for all cancellations.

 

Missed appointments and cancellations made within 24 hours are subject to be billed at the regular price for the session.