FAQ

The classical Chinese explanation for acupuncture is that our bodies contain channels of energy that run in regular patterns throughout our body and over its surface. These energy channels are called meridians and like rivers flowing through your body, they irrigate and nourish your tissues. These meridians can become obstructed by emotional or physical trauma, much like a landslide that obstructs the flow of a river.

To re-establish the regular flow of energy (also known as Qi) through the meridians, very fine needles are inserted into acupuncture points along the meridians to regulate your energy flow and unblock obstructions or stagnant energy. This activates your body’s natural healing to correct imbalances in your body’s systems.

Acupuncture should not be painful. There may be a brief, slight sting at the needle site, but often times nothing is felt at all. An acupuncture needle is as fine as a human hair and is flexible. Patients often describe a sense of deep relaxation during the treatment and sometimes fall asleep.

Many of the acupuncture points are located on the legs, abdomen, and back. You will be draped with a sheet to access these points, similar to a massage, to ensure maximum privacy during the treatment. No special clothing is needed, but you may be able to remain completely clothed if you wear loose items.

The initial consultation and treatment lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Subsequent treatments last approximately 1 hour.

Yes. The needles are sterile, single use only, and immediately disposed of according to the regulations of the State of Florida.

No. A unique treatment plan is created for each patient, based on their needs, history, and concerns.

No, a referral is not needed.

No, you will submit a New Patient Intake Form after you set up your first appointment. We will send you a link via email and ask that you complete the form at least 24 hours prior to your initial visit.

We offer therapeutic and relaxation massage, as well as prenatal and postpartum.

Yes, it is completely safe to receive a massage at any point in your pregnancy, especially from our certified medical massage therapist. According to the American Pregnancy Association, evidence strongly suggests there are maternal and newborn health benefits when therapeutic massage is incorporated into regular prenatal care.

Your safety and the safety of your baby is our primary concern. In the early weeks of your pregnancy a front lying position is fine. However as your pregnancy progresses, a side lying position supported by bolsters, pillows and cushions is used. According to the American Pregnancy Association, tables that provide a hole in which the uterus can fit may not be reliable and can still apply pressure to the abdomen, or allow the abdomen to dangle, causing uncomfortable stretching of the uterine ligaments.

There is no hard and fast time frame; you can receive a massage as soon as you feel ready. Postpartum massage can be very beneficial to your body after the trauma of delivery. Massage helps aid in healing by circulating oxygen rich blood through the body. It also reduces the incidence of postpartum depression. It is completely safe to receive a massage at any point after your delivery, especially from our certified and experienced massage therapist.

Yes, we do offer gift certificates! Contact us and we will be happy to help you!

We are a cash pay practice and do not accept insurance. We have seen an increase in the number of insurance plans that do cover acupuncture and recommend that you contact your insurance company to ask about your individual plan. Each insurance company varies and plans within the same company can vary.

We can provide you with an invoice which contains all of the necessary codes for you to file along with the insurance company’s form to seek reimbursement directly.

In addition, according to the IRS, acupuncture is a qualified expense covered by Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flex Spending Accounts (FSA) and we gladly accept both forms of payment.

We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express, cash and check. We also accept Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flex Spending Accounts (FSA).

For cost information, please see the Fees section on our Patient Info page.

You can call our office at 727.286.8010 during regular business hours, text us at 727-238-5632, or complete an inquiry form.