Acupuncture FAQs
What to expect in the acupuncture visit
If you are new to the clinic please book a free phone consultation so we can discuss your health goals. After that we will set up a 90 minute in-person visit to go over your health history and current concerns and provide the acupuncture treatment.
Follow up visits are 45 to 50 minutes.
Acupuncture is one part of traditional Chinese and East Asian medicine which includes modalities such as bodywork, heat therapy, and herbal prescriptions. See our therapeutic modalities page to learn more.
Please wear or bring loose pants or shorts for better treatment access.
Acupuncture is a comfortable and relaxing experience, and the goal of each treatment is to help with your immediate and long term health goals.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are thin, flexible, sterile, and designed to be virtually painless. Sometimes there is a brief sharpness when the needle is inserted but often there is no sensation.
Acupuncture uses gentle stimulous to trigger the body’s own healing mechanisms. The needles work with the body not against it.
What acupuncture can help with
Research has shown that acupuncture is effective for treating all types of body pain, headaches, digestive disorders, PMS and menstrual irregularity, insomnia, fatigue, allergies, and health issues caused by stress.
We are experienced in treating all the above as well as dizziness, nausea, neuropathies, Bell’s Palsy, hemmorhoids, migraines, tinnitus, carpal tunnel, frozen shoulder, and plantar fasciitis. Learn more.
Cost and insurance
The first visit is $119 and all return visits are $89. Payment is due at the time of service. We accept checks, debit or credit cards, and HSA/FSA cards.
As a courtesy we are in network and can submit claims to Anthem/Blue Cross, Aetna, and Maine Community Health Options. We are unable to accept Medicare.
You will need to call your insurance company ahead of the appointment to determine the specific coverage for acupuncture and if there is a copay etc. If the insurance does not reimburse you are responsible for the payment.
Acupuncturist training and qualifications
Licensed acupuncturists in most states are required to complete over 3000 hours of training at the master or doctorate level, and maintain national certification as well as state licensure.
Dry needling
Dry needling is a form of acupuncture used to treat pain specifically. Dry needling utlizes an acupuncture needle and may be performed by an acupuncturist, medical doctor, or physical therapist.
Licensed acupuncturists have thousands of hours of training in needling techniques, including the orthopedic approaches necessary for treating pain.