Your Questions, Answered

Acupuncture is one of the oldest healing practices in the world, with roots going back thousands of years. It uses very thin, sterile, single-use needles placed at carefully selected points on the body. From a modern perspective, acupuncture may help influence the nervous system, pain signaling, muscle tension, circulation, and the body’s inflammatory response. From an East Asian medicine perspective, we also look at the patterns connecting your symptoms rather than treating each complaint as if it exists on its own. You do not need to understand all of the theory before coming in. Dr. Sherie will explain what she is doing, why she chose certain points, and how the treatment relates to what you have been experiencing.

This is one of the most common questions we hear—and we completely understand why. Acupuncture needles are very different from the needles used for injections or blood draws. They are extremely thin, and most people feel little to nothing when they are inserted. You may notice a quick pinch, warmth, tingling, pressure, heaviness, or a mild dull ache at certain points. Nothing should feel sharp or unbearable. If a point does not feel comfortable, tell Dr. Sherie and she will adjust or remove it. Many patients are surprised by how peaceful and relaxing the experience ends up being.

Usually more than people expect. Acupuncture may be used as part of care for acute or chronic pain, headaches and migraines, muscle tension, stress, sleep difficulties, digestive complaints, menstrual or hormonal concerns, and recovery from injury. It can also be helpful when you simply do not feel like yourself but have had trouble putting the pieces together. That does not mean acupuncture is the answer to everything, and it is not a replacement for necessary medical care—but it may be one useful part of your overall plan. Not sure whether your concern is a good fit? Reach out. We are happy to talk it through honestly before you book.

Your first acupuncture visit is approximately 90 minutes so there is plenty of time to talk without feeling rushed. Dr. Sherie will ask about your main concerns, health history, medications and supplements, sleep, digestion, stress, and anything else that may help fill in the bigger picture. After the intake, she will explain her recommendations and move into your first acupuncture treatment. Depending on what your body needs that day, your visit may also include cupping, gua sha, e-stim, ear seeds, moxibustion, or therapeutic bodywork at no additional charge. Follow-up visits are approximately 60 minutes and begin with a focused check-in about how you have been feeling since your last treatment. Everything will be explained first, and you can always ask questions or say no to any technique.

There is no honest one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on what you are coming in for, how long it has been going on, and how your body responds. Some people notice meaningful changes fairly quickly. Longer-standing or more complicated concerns may need a steadier plan over several weeks. After your first visit, Dr. Sherie will explain what she recommends and why—and you can decide what feels realistic for your schedule, goals, and budget. There is no pressure to commit to a giant treatment package.