Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture, a 3,000-year-old healing practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), views each person as a unique whole. Unlike conventional methods that target symptoms, acupuncture considers your constitution, lifestyle, and overall health to form a personalized pattern diagnosis aimed at restoring balance and harmony.

In TCM, true health is achieved when yin and yang are balanced, allowing energy (Qi) to flow freely through meridians. This concept mirrors the Western idea of homeostasis. Acupuncture stimulates specific points along these pathways using ultra-fine, single-use needles to release blockages, enhance circulation, and activate the body’s natural healing response.

Rather than treating named diseases, acupuncture addresses underlying patterns of imbalance causing pain or dysfunction. By targeting the root cause, it helps restore the body’s natural state of health and well-being, supporting its innate ability to heal and thrive.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture releases natural painkillers like endorphins, easing pain and promoting relaxation. It also affects neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, enhancing mood and altering pain perception. By boosting circulation, acupuncture reduces inflammation and supports healing. It strengthens the immune response, enhancing the body’s resilience, and helps regulate hormones like cortisol and oxytocin to improve stress levels, mood, and sleep.

What can acupuncture treat?

Pain & Musculoskeletal Conditions

Back pain, Neck pain, Knee pain, Sciatica, Postoperative pain, Sprains, Tennis elbow, TMJ dysfunction, Spinal pain, Radicular pain, Abdominal pain, Earache, Stiff neck, Fibromyalgia, Gout, Osteoarthritis, Periarthritis of the shoulder, Myofascial pain syndrome, Muscle pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, Traumatic injuries, sprains, tendinitis, Contractures, Arthritis, Work and sports injuries, Low back/neck strain, Frozen shoulder

Neurological & Mental Health

Headaches, Migraines, Neuralgia, Facial pain, Trigeminal neuralgia, Bell’s palsy, Stroke recovery, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Dementia, Schizophrenia, Tourette’s syndrome, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Insomnia, Hypersomnia, Facial spasm, Somatization disorder, Nocturnal enuresis, Neurogenic bladder dysfunction, Cervicobrachial syndrome, Intercostal neuralgia, Disc problems

Respiratory & Immune Conditions

Asthma, Seasonal allergies, Whooping cough, Low white blood cell count (Leukopenia), Acute sinusitis, Acute rhinitis, Common cold and allergies, Acute tonsillitis, Acute bronchitis, Bronchial asthma

Digestive & Gastrointestinal Health

IBS, Cholecystitis, Gallstones, Gastrointestinal motility disorders, Ulcerative colitis, Epigastralgia, Acute dysentery, Biliary colic, Constipation, Diarrhea, Gastritis, Gastric hyperacidity, Chronic duodenal ulcer (pain relief), Acute/Chronic colitis, Paralytic ileus, Gastropotosis

Cardiovascular & Circulatory Health

Essential hypertension, Primary hypotension, Cardiac neurosis, Hyperlipidemia, Raynaud’s syndrome

Reproductive, Gynecological & Sexual Health

Infertility, Dysmenorrhea, PMS, PCOS, Induction of labor, Labor pain, Morning sickness, Hot flashes (menopause), Malposition of fetus correction, Urinary incontinence, Prostatitis, Bladder infections, Recurrent UTIs, Kidney stones, Urinary retention, Chronic pelvic pain syndrome, Menopause syndrome, Irregular menstruation, Amenorrhea

Skin & Sensory Conditions

Neurodermatitis, Acne, Itching, Herpes zoster, Dizziness, Vertigo, Meniere’s disease, Eye pain, Nosebleeds, Sore throat, Sjogren’s syndrome, Gingivitis, Toothaches, Pharyngitis, Conjunctivitis, Central retinitis, Cataracts (without complications)

Cancer Support & Recovery

Side effects from chemotherapy and radiation therapy, Nausea, Vomiting

Overall Health & Well-Being

Stress-related disorders, Obesity, Insomnia, Alcohol and opioid dependence, Tobacco dependence, Lactation deficiency, Postoperative recovery, Non-insulin dependent diabetes, Craniocerebral injury, Appetite suppression, Withdrawal from drugs

The World Health Organization and the National Institutes of Health recognize acupuncture as an effective treatment for the listed conditions.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are very thin, and most people experience little to no pain during the procedure. You may feel a slight pinch or prick, but it's generally a comfortable experience.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes, acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner. With proper training, expertise, and adherence to hygiene standards, the risk of adverse effects is minimal.

What should I do before my acupuncture appointment?

Have a light meal or snack before your appointment to prevent lightheadedness or discomfort.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing—pants that can be rolled above your knees and shirts that can be pulled above your elbows.

Where are the needles placed and what will it feel like?

Acupuncture points are found all over the body, some of the most effective and commonly used points are located below the elbows and knees, other areas include the ears, head, arms, legs, chest, abdomen, back, hands, and feet. The retention time for needles is 25-40 minutes and the needles may create a De Qi sensation, which can feel like tingling, heaviness, warmth, or pressure. Some people feel no sensation, while others notice a prick, dull ache, or warmth—all are normal reactions.

What should I do after my acupuncture treatment?

After acupuncture, drink plenty of water to help your body integrate the treatment, and follow any dietary or lifestyle guidance from your acupuncturist. Pay attention to how your symptoms over the next few days, and allow yourself to simply notice without keeping track of every detail. Return to your usual routine, while giving yourself a brief pause from strenuous activity or intense stress to let your body settle.

Is acupuncture right for me?

Acupuncture can help many people, but everyone’s experience is different. How many sessions you need depends on your health history, lifestyle, and how your body responds to treatment. Most people start with 6–12 sessions over four weeks to two months, with some noticing results quickly and others seeing gradual improvements as the course progresses. I’d be happy to discuss your needs and help you determine if acupuncture is a good fit for you

Can I Use My HSA or FSA Card?

Aspen Tree Acupuncture gladly accepts HSA and FSA cards for payment.

At this time, we are not an in-network provider and do not bill insurance directly. Payment for services is due in full at the time of your appointment.

If requested, we are happy to provide an itemized superbill that you may submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement, depending on your individual plan and coverage.

Accessibility Statement

At Aspen Tree Acupuncture, care is meant to be accessible to all—regardless of physical ability, financial status, or background. I strive to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where each person feels safe, respected, and supported.

If you have specific accessibility needs—whether related to mobility, sensory sensitivity, communication preferences, or affordability—please reach out. I'm happy to work with you to find a treatment plan, space arrangement, or schedule that honors your needs.

Healing is meant to be within reach. Let’s find a path that works for you.