Some questions you may have:

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a technique that is part of the system called Traditional Chinese Medicine.

It is a method of promoting circulation through the body by inserting tiny needles along pathways called meridians that run through your body. Acupuncture has been shown to help speed the healing process and alleviate pain. It promotes proper circulation and function and helps your body to regulate itself. Acupuncture is a simple, gentle technique. Nothing is taken out of or put into your body, rather it is a way of maximizing your body’s own efforts to heal and correct itself. Acupuncture is a time tested and scientifically proven method of traditional health care.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

At Balance, we specialize in gentle acupuncture. Gentle needling technique and the tiny size of the acupuncture needles make them unlikely to cause pain. Many times, the patient does not feel the insertion of the needles. Sometimes, a person may feel a quick sensation. Once the acupuncture treatment is in place, you will rest for a time. During the rest period, there is no pain at all and people very often fall asleep. You will be asked if you are comfortable and encouraged to tell the acupuncturist right away if you have any discomfort.

Is Acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is a safe and gentle technique with very few risks or side effects. Acupuncture needles are very tiny, disposable, sterile needles that are inserted according to the same clean needle technique rules that are followed in any medical office.

What can I expect during my treatment?

You will lie comfortably on a  warm treatment bed. You are covered to your comfort with sheets. The acupuncture needles are placed and then you will rest for between 30 and 45 minutes.

Will my treatment include massage?

Massage is currently not offered due to Covid-19 precautions.

How long does a treatment take?

You should plan to be here for approximately one hour for your follow up treatments and 90 minutes for your initial visit.

How many visits will I need and how often?

The number of visits you will need depends on the treatment plan for your condition and your constitution (the overall state of your health.) An acute problem (one that has recently started) may be resolved after 1 to 3 treatments, a more chronic condition may require 10 to 12 visits. Your acupuncturist will communicate with you about her expectations for your treatment plan. People are often treated weekly in the initial stages of care, then less frequently (ie. every other week, once per month) as they improve. Some people choose to use acupuncture as part of a long term strategy for managing their chronic problems. For others, once the issue has resolved, there is no need to continue treatment.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

Some insurance policies offer coverage for acupuncture, others do not.  If you have insurance coverage, you will pay for your treatment in full at the time of service and then you may submit paperwork to your insurance company for reimbursement. Unlike many doctor’s offices, we do not bill your insurance company on your behalf and I am not a provider for any particular insurance companies. To find out about your coverage, call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card and ask if your policy will cover acupuncture by an out of network provider. We cannot guarantee insurance reimbursement. Many people use Healthcare Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flex Fund accounts to cover the cost of their acupuncture treatment.

Can children have acupuncture?

Yes! Acupuncture is a safe, effective method for children. It is often combined with acupressure and massage. Children who come to Balance enjoy their treatments. Pediatric visits usually take 30 – 45 minutes.

What is the cancellation policy?

Please allow at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel your appointment.

How do I know if acupuncture will help me?

We offer a complimentary phone consultation to help you decide if acupuncture is a good treatment option for you. Just call or email us to set up your phone consult.

Inclement Weather Policy: The office will be closed in the event that the Ithaca City School district closes for inclement weather. You will receive notification by text, phone or email if your appointment needs to be rescheduled due to inclement weather.