Questions people ask first

Most people feel a quick pinch, a dull ache or a heavy, warm feeling at a point, and some feel nothing. The needles are much thinner than the ones used for shots. If anything feels like too much, tell your acupuncturist and they will adjust or stop.

Yes. We use sterile needles from sealed packs, open each pack in front of you and use each needle once. Used needles go into a sharps container. Risks are small, and your acupuncturist explains them before the first needle: soreness, light bruising, feeling light-headed and, rarely, bleeding or infection.

Your acupuncturist suggests a plan around your training and your event dates, for example visits closer together while your load builds and fewer in a rest week. It is a suggestion, not a promise, and results vary. You can change the plan or stop at any time.

Dry needling uses thin needles at tight spots in a muscle, and acupuncture uses similar needles in a wider plan. Physical therapists and acupuncturists each work under their own license and training, and neither is better than the other for everyone. Ask any practitioner what their training is and what a session involves, and tell your PT if you also see us.

Yes, and tell us your date when you book. We would rather you try something new, like cupping or electro-acupuncture, well before race day, because you may feel sore or sleepy afterward.

No. Keep taking everything your prescriber gave you, and tell us all that you take. Acupuncture works alongside your doctor's care, never in place of it.

Wear shorts and a loose top that roll up at the knee and elbow, and eat something light first. Bring a list of the medicines and supplements you take.

Some plans pay for acupuncture and many do not, so ask your plan whether it has an acupuncture benefit, how many visits it allows, whether you owe a copay or deductible and whether you need a referral. We are out of network and give you an itemized receipt after every visit. HSA and FSA cards can often be used: ask your plan administrator.

It does not replace your doctor, your physical therapist or emergency care. See a doctor first for sudden severe pain, chest pain, new weakness or numbness, a joint that gives way or loss of bladder or bowel control. In an emergency, call 911.