Before you come
Your first acupuncture appointment
Here's how to prepare and what to expect.
- Time
- About an hour.
- Prepare
- Wear loose clothing.
- Medication and supplement list.
- Insurance card, if using insurance.
- First step
- Discuss your care options.
Booking
Call (845) 680-6294. Say what is bothering you, how long for, and when you can come in.
Mention if you are pregnant or might be, take blood thinners, have a pacemaker or implanted device, or bruise easily. Any of those changes how treatment is done.
When you arrive
Come a few minutes early. We have a parking lot on site. Bring your medications list, any diagnosis you have, and recent imaging or lab work if it is relevant.
The appointment
We begin by talking about your health history and concerns. Questions about sleep, digestion, stress, and your cycle help us understand your needs and plan your care.
Then treatment: needles go in, you rest twenty to thirty minutes under a warm lamp. Many people fall asleep. If bodywork is part of the visit, you are draped throughout.
Afterwards
Some people feel loose and a little spacey afterwards; some feel energised. Occasionally a point is tender or bruises for a day. Drink water and go easy on exercise that day.
Before you leave, we'll discuss how the visit went and whether further appointments may be helpful.
Bring
- A list of medications and supplements
- Any diagnosis you already have
- Your insurance card, if using insurance
- Loose clothing, or something you can roll above the elbow and knee
Eat something light
Arriving on an empty stomach can leave you lightheaded. A heavy meal right beforehand is not comfortable either.
Common questions before a first visit
Do I need a referral to come in?
No — call and book directly. Worth telling your physician you are adding acupuncture; we are glad to work alongside your existing care.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Far finer than the needles used for injections — closer to a thick hair. Most people feel a brief prick, then a dull or heavy sensation. Say so if anything genuinely hurts; the needle comes out.
How many visits will I need?
Depends on the problem and how long you have had it. You will get an honest read after the first visit, not a package sold up front.
Do you take my insurance?
We accept out-of-network acupuncture benefits, and patients have used BCBS, Aetna and UnitedHealthcare plans. Coverage varies a lot between plans — check yours, or call and we will tell you what to ask.
Can I walk in, or do I need an appointment?
Appointments are preferred. Walk-ins are welcome when the schedule allows, but calling ahead is safer.
Appointments are made by phone.
Call and tell us what is going on. If we are with a patient, leave a message.