FAQ

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Is it safe?

Yes! Acupuncture is very safe when practiced by a licensed acupuncturist. Each needle is pre-packaged, sterile, made of stainless steel and used only one time to ensure a safe and hygienic environment. Licensed acupuncturists are trained and Certified in Clean Needle Technique (CNT). When practiced with expertise and safely, acupuncture does not have any serious side effects.

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How many treatments will I need?

It depends on your condition. The more stubborn and chronic the condition is, the longer the treatments may continue. Initially, 4 to 6 weekly or biweekly treatments are recommended to see lasting results. More acute conditions or injuries tend to resolve faster. If you are looking for general wellbeing and preventative care, seasonal or monthly treatments are ideal.

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What type of training does an acupuncturist receive?

Acupuncture takes many years of practice and study to master. To be a licensed acupuncturist you must complete a three year graduate level Masters program, spend hundreds of hours in clinical internships, be certified by the CCAOM in Clean Needle Technique, and pass multiple rigorous NCCAOM national board exams. In school, we are taught extensive human anatomy along with the exact angle, depth and direction a needle should be placed in each of the hundreds of points all over the body.

Physical therapists, chiropractors, naturopaths and “Western” medical practitioners are permitted by Vermont state law to practice acupuncture, which is also called “dry needling,” with zero hours of training. Often, they opt to take a weekend seminar course consisting of 27 hours. Dry needling has been outlawed by many states including New York and California as a public safety concern. Even medical doctors (M.D.s) in Vermont are required to do a more comprehensive 300 hour acupuncture training. We would strongly recommend receiving acupuncture from only licensed acupuncturists.

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Will it hurt?

While some first-time patients may have a fear of needles, it quickly subsides once the patient realizes they barely feel a thing! The needles are hair-thin, and unlike getting a shot or giving blood, nothing is injected or drawn from the body. In fact, most patients don’t even feel the needle go in! There is a sensation when the needle contacts the qi, or energy of the point. Some people describe this as a dull ache or zing. Generally as soon as you feel that dull ache, the needle comes out immediately.

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What should I wear?

If you can, come in loose fitting pants that could be pulled up to knee if needed. I have hospital gowns in case we need to do work on your back. You are also welcome to bring your own button down shirt or zip up that you could put on backwards to stay nice and cozy. I have everything needed to keep you comfortable and covered.

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What are your Covid-19 protocols?

My office is not connected to any other offices or by vents to any other dwellings. I am following health department protocols. I leave adequate time to clean between clients and to sanitize surfaces between clients.   There is no use of a waiting room at this time. Clients are instructed to text or call upon arrival and I will let you into the office. I have a Holmes HEPA air filtration system in my office. I will also be taking your temperature upon arrival and inviting you to first wash your hands before entering. I will be masked at all times, as will you. If you need a mask I have surgical masks available. Thank you for your cooperation!