We believe that clear communication is key to a successful healing journey. Below are some of the most common questions we receive about acupuncture and what to expect during your treatments. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us—we’re happy to help!
We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms and legs. Many acupuncture points are located on the lower legs, arms, and back, so it’s helpful if your clothing allows access to these areas. You’re welcome to bring a pair of shorts or loose-fitting pants if that makes you more comfortable.
Your first visit at rhodes. will take approximately 90 minutes. This includes an in-depth consultation to review your health history, a physical examination, and, if necessary, your first acupuncture session. We want to ensure that we fully understand your needs and have enough time to provide a thorough assessment.
Patients usually feel minimal discomfort and often find the sessions relaxing. Patient consent and comfort level is always considered during treatment. Remember that during sessions where some discomfort may be experienced, the intention is always focused on overall benefit and positive outcomes.
Yes, in many cases, we perform an acupuncture treatment during the first visit, especially if you are seeking relief from pain or acute symptoms. This session sets the stage for deeper healing, and we tailor the treatment to your specific needs based on the initial consultation and physical assessment.
At rhodes., we do not bill insurance directly. However, we are happy to provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Many patients find this process simple, and it allows us to focus on delivering high-quality, personalized care without the limitations of insurance networks.
Acupuncture can be helpful for a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:
Our priority is to treat each patient holistically, rather than focus on singular symptoms. By doing so, we're able to help you experience longer lasting, more far-reaching results.
Your typical designated session time is up to 75 minutes. Stephanie only sees one patient at a time during these treatments, so you will have her undivided attention. Sometimes sessions take less than 75 minutes, depending on the patient's needs for the day.
Initial intake appointments are longer, blocked for up to 90 minutes. These initial intake conversations are longer and more in-depth.
Express treatments are shorter appointments specifically geared toward established patients and are offered based on practitioner's discretion under specific circumstances. These sessions last up to 45 minutes.
After a check-in to discuss how you're feeling, Stephanie will insert thin needles into specific acupuncture points on your body. You will then relax for 30-ish minutes while the needles work. Many patients find this part of the session deeply relaxing, often falling asleep. Afterward, the needles are gently removed, and you'll have time to discuss any immediate effects or questions.
Yes, acupuncture is a generally safe treatment when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner. The needles used are sterile, single-use, and disposable. Stephanie follows safety protocols to ensure a clean, comfortable, and professional experience.
Many patients report feeling better immediately or shortly after their first acupuncture session, especially for acute symptoms However, the overall timeline for improvement varies depending on the condition being treated. Chronic or long-term health issues may require more sessions to experience significant changes. Stephanie will track your progress at each visit and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan to maximize results.
If you’re nervous about needles, you're not alone—many first-time patients feel the same way! Acupuncture needles are incredibly thin, much smaller than the needles used for injections or blood draws. Most people find the sensation to be either painless or barely noticeable.
However, if the idea of needles makes you uncomfortable, we can offer non-needle based treatments as alternatives. These may include acupressure, cupping therapy, gua sha, or moxa — all of which can provide similar therapeutic benefits by promoting energy flow and healing. We can discuss the best options to ensure you feel relaxed and supported throughout your treatment.
After an acupuncture session, it’s common to feel relaxed or energized, depending on your body’s response. You might also experience mild sensations such as tingling or warmth, which are signs that your body’s energy is adjusting. In the hours or days following treatment, you may notice changes in your symptoms. It’s important to stay hydrated and allow your body time to integrate the effects of the session. If you have any concerns, we encourage you to contact us.
Yes, you can usually resume normal activities after an acupuncture session. However, we recommend avoiding intense physical activity or stressful situations immediately after treatment, as your system needs time to adjust. Everyone is an individual, but in general, light exercise like walking or yoga can complement your treatment and help keep energy moving. If you feel inclined to rest and take time to process, this is also normal.
Acupuncture is a holistic treatment that addresses not only physical symptoms but also emotional and energetic imbalances. While therapies like physical therapy and chiropractic care can be highly effective for specific musculoskeletal issues, acupuncture treats the body as a whole system. This means it can address a broader range of challenges—like emotional health, digestive disorders, and immune function—while also supporting physical healing.
