FAQ
What is Traditional Asian Medicine? What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is part of Traditional Asian Medicine, a holistic system of healing that has been practiced for thousands of years. This time-tested approach includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, breathwork, and exercise, all guided by diagnostic tools like tongue and pulse assessment.
Acupuncture uses very fine needles to stimulate specific points on the body called acupuncture points, which lie along pathways known as meridians. These points correspond with various organ systems and are chosen based on your unique symptoms. Stimulating these points helps restore the body’s natural balance and promotes healing.
According to Chinese Medicine, illness or discomfort often stems from disruptions in the flow of energy—known as Qi. Life experiences, stress, and illness can all affect this energy. Because each person’s experience is unique, treatments are highly individualized. There is no one-size-fits-all approach—no two patients receive the same acupuncture treatment or herbal prescription.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture should not be a painful experience. How acupuncture feels will vary depending on your condition and where the needles are inserted. The needles used are extremely thin, much finer than the ones used for shots or blood tests. You might feel a quick pinch or a mild sensation when the needle goes in, but many people feel little to no discomfort at all. If you find you are sensitive or adverse to needles, I can work with you to achieve a comfortable experience. Overall most patients do not consider acupuncture to be painful and they find the benefits outweigh any discomfort.
How should I dress for my appointment? Prepare?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
Make sure to have had something to eat and drink within 2 hours before your treatment.
It’s best to avoid caffeine for a few hours prior to your appointment.
For your first visit, please bring any relevant medical information, including recent lab tests or imaging (MRI, X-rays), as well as a list of any medications or supplements you are currently taking.
How long is a session?
The initial session typically lasts about 90 minutes, depending on your medical history and whether a physical exam is needed. Follow-up sessions are shorter, usually around 60 minutes.
How will I feel after acupuncture?
After an acupuncture treatment people commonly feel a sense of calm, improved mental clarity, increased energy, better digestion and better sleep.
Will there be side effects?
Acupuncture is very safe and generally side effect free. You may feel a subtle soreness on body parts where needles were in place, or bruising if you tend to bruise easily. Let your practitioner know if you feel lightheaded- this is due to acupunctures effects of lowering blood pressure.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends on your condition and your health goals. Typically results are seen within a few visits. Try to commit to 6-8 treatments before you make an opinion about its efficacy. Keep in mind that you can speed up your healing time by complying with diet, lifestyle, herb and supplement recommendations.
Will my insurance plan cover acupuncture?
Most insurance plans in California have acupuncture coverage. To determine your coverage, call your insurer directly. You can also send a photograph of the front and back of your insurance card along with your date of birth to acupuncture@kathleenmanza.com and I can try to help verify your acupuncture coverage.