Frequently Asked Questions

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the therapies of Chinese Medicine, with a written history in China of two thousand years but dating back before recorded history. It is currently used by a quarter of the worldʼs population and its popularity is growing rapidly in the West as scientific trials prove its efficacy. Acupuncture consists of the insertion of extremely fine needles into specific points to regulate the systems of the body, restore function, and alleviate pain.

How does Chinese Medicine work?

Chinese Medicine is a healing practice that looks at the patient as a whole being. The practitioner builds a diagnostic picture which synthesizes all the patterns of imbalance a patient may have into a logical whole. Chinese Medicineʼs efficacy can be partially attributed to the fact that each treatment is individualized to the specific person instead of just to symptoms of disease. Additionally, Chinese Medicine addresses the underlying cause of disease and can even detect and prevent disease before it manifests.

Through thousands of years of study and practice, Chinese Medicine doctors developed the theory of acupuncture. They discovered pathways along the body that relate to the organs and systems of the body, through which life energy, called “qi”, travels. They found that when there is illness, the qi (pronounced chee) is blocked, in excess, insufficient, or is unbalanced. Acupuncture was found to be a way of restoring and balancing the flow of qi. By inserting needles in specific points along the channels and manipulating the qi flowing through those channels, organ function can be regulated. Acupuncture can also release muscle tension, decrease inflammation, and alleviate pain. Throughout the last two thousand years, Chinese Medicine doctors have recorded their observations and clinical successes, with each generation learning from and improving upon those that came before. Today, that knowledge is being validated by modern research techniques.

Does it hurt?

The feeling created by acupuncture varies from person to person. Most patients feel a sensation, which can feel like a slight pinch, slight ache, tingling, heaviness, warmth, or even a traveling sensation along the acupuncture channel. Most people are surprised to find that acupuncture feels nothing like a shot from a hypodermic needle, which are thick and hollow. Acupuncture needles are very tiny, usually only slightly larger than a whisker. Needles are left in for 20-30 minutes, and most people feel deeply relaxed during the treatment.

Are the needles safe and sterile?

Yes. Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, disposable, and are a FDA approved medical device. After treatment, these single use needles are disposed of. New needles are used for each treatment. A licensed acupuncturist has undergone years of training for their safe implementation.

How long does an acupuncture visit take?

Your first acupuncture visit takes 90-120 minutes, and involves a detailed initial consultation and an acupuncture treatment. Follow up visits take 60-75 minutes, as they have a shorter intake period before treatment.

How many treatments do I need and how often?

Because each personʼs health issues are different and response to treatment is unique, the number and frequency of treatments will vary. Usually acute conditions respond more rapidly than chronic conditions. Although acupuncture is most effective when employed twice per week, most patients with health complaints come in once per week due to their busy lifestyles. Some patients respond very well after just one treatment, while others may progress more slowly and require several months of treatments for maximum results.

What other modalities might be used during my session?

Cupping, moxibustion and massage may also be included in your treatment. Cupping uses warmed jars that create light suction when applied to the body. Its purpose is to benefit circulation and reduce local congestion. Moxibustion involves burning the herb mugwort above the skin at specific acupuncture points and is particularly good at tonifying where there is deficiency in the body. When applicable for the specific condition, local massage with therapeutic linaments and salves is given, usually for 5-10 minutes.

How should I prepare for my Acupuncture treatment?

Patients should make sure they are not hungry or too full when they arrive for a treatment, and should wear comfortable clothes. It is important to refrain from rigorous exercise and alcohol consumption at least a few hours before and after treatment.

How much does it cost?

The initial visit, which includes a full consultation, is $150. Return visits are $80. I may recommend herbal medicines or nutritional supplements, which can be provided for an additional fee. The cost of any herbs or supplements will be discussed with you prior to preparing a custom herbal formula. Please be aware that unused herbs and supplements cannot be returned for refund or exchange.

Can I pay with a credit card?

Yes. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are accepted, as well as personal checks, cash, and gift certificates.

Do you take insurance?

Patients who wish to have their insurance cover all or a portion of their treatment should contact their insurance provider to learn about their coverage of Acupuncture. Aimee Wells Acupuncture is an in-network provider for several insurance plans and we are also willing to work with insurance companies that we are out of network with as well. We are in-network with the following insurance providers:

• Cigna Healthcare
• Beech Street, a Viant Network
• Clarispointe
• CorVel
• Interplan Health Group
• Mulitplan
• Coventry Health Care

Aimee Wells Acupuncture is currently out of network for all insurance companies not listed above. When we are out of network for your insurance plan, payment is due at the time of service, and we bill the insurance company so that the portion covered by the insurance plan is sent to the patient for reimbursement. Call Aimee Wells Acupuncture at (510) 332-6434 to see if we accept your insurance and to learn more about how we can work with your insurance.

When companies do not cover acupuncture, many patients set up a health savings plan with their employer to set aside tax-free dollars for health services not covered by their traditional insurance.

I am experiencing financial difficulties. Can I receive a fee reduction?

If you are experiencing economic hardship, you may apply for a fee reduction. For patients who qualify, the return visit fee is reduced to as low as $65 and the initial visit fee is reduced to as low as $95.