FAQ
 

Does it hurt?

Acupuncture shouldn’t hurt! Some points are more sensitive than others upon insertion, but you should not experience any pain beyond the initial quick pinch. Needles are typically inserted and left to work their magic for 20-30 minutes, and that time should be relaxing and meditative - so if you are experiencing any discomfort we will always remove or adjust the needles as needed.

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What happens during a typical acupuncture treatment?

During your first treatment, we’ll talk a LOT about your specific concerns, your health history, and all sorts of other things that may not feel relevant but help me form a diagnosis in terms of Chinese theory. Then, Katie will feel your pulses and look at your tongue, and you’ll get settled in on the treatment table which will be cozy and heated to your preference. Katie will  insert needles and leave you to rest for 20-30 minutes. Depending on your specific condition, she will add on electric stimulation, moxibustion, cupping and gua sha as is appropriate. Then, we’ll chat about the course of treatments that would benefit you and herbal medicine prescriptions if that is something you are interested in!

 

How often should I get acupuncture?

This really varies depending on what you are coming to acupuncture for! Some acute conditions are drastically improved after one treatment and only require maintenance as needed. Chronic, deep-rooted conditions typically involve one to two treatments per week for several months. I am evaluating your progress at every treatment and promise not to recommend anything more than what will serve you best. See package pricing for discounted rates on packages of 5 or 10 treatments. 

 

What should I wear?

We provide plenty of sheets and blankets at Ocotillo, so you can come in wearing whatever you like and we will simply have you take off your clothes in the area we plan to needle. If you’d rather avoid undressing, please wear loose fitting pants and tops to your appointment. 

 

Can I resume normal activity after an acupuncture treatment?

We typically recommend having a few hours to rest after your first acupuncture treatment as everyone reacts slightly differently - you may experience some fatigue. Otherwise, you are free to go about your day as normal!

 

What can acupuncture help with?

Read more about this here

 

Is there anyone who shouldn’t get acupuncture?

While there are many cases in which treatments are modified to adjust for certain conditions, it is rare that someone would be advised not to seek treatment at all. For example, we avoid certain points and regions of the body in pregnant women, and we typically do not use electric stimulation on patients with seizure conditions. Your paperwork and intake during your initial visit is fairly long and exhaustive so as to identify anything that may alter your specific treatment plan.

 

Where are you located?

See our location here

 

Do you take insurance?

Pricing info here