Acupuncture
Acupuncture is indeed one of the most widely practiced complementary medical treatments in the US and has earned recognition from reputable organizations such as the World Health Organization for its diverse benefits. As a natural and drug-free option, acupuncture is gaining increasing popularity in addressing common complaints like back pain and migraines.
Originating in China, this ancient practice involves the precise insertion of fine, sterilized needles into specific acupuncture points on the body. Notably, acupuncture remains an integral part of the healthcare system in East Asia, commonly integrated with biomedical treatments to address a wide array of health issues.
What to expect during an acupuncture treatment
First, we'll conduct a thorough health consultation, including a medical history and discussion of your main health concerns. We'll also review your diet and lifestyle factors. As part of the Chinese medical diagnosis, we'll examine your tongue and take a pulse reading.
Acupuncture is usually done on the abdomen, back, forearms, and lower legs. We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing to make it easier to access these areas – like a T-shirt or shorts that can be pulled up or removed.
Before placing the needles, we'll clean the areas with an alcohol swab. Acupuncture needles are thin, about the thickness of a hair strand, and the sensation is different from an injection. Many patients find the feeling of the needles to be pleasant, describing tingling, gentle pressure, or a heaviness once the needles are placed.
Once the needles are in, we'll ensure you're warm and comfortable, then ask you to relax for around 30 minutes. Patients often experience a deep sense of relaxation during this time, which can last beyond the session.
After your session, you can go back to normal activities, but avoid strenuous activities like hot yoga or extreme endurance sports. All needles are single use, sterilized, and disposed of by local clinical waste services.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Your first appointment begins with a comprehensive consultation. Dr. Hewwing will take the time to understand your health history, current concerns, lifestyle, and overall wellbeing before any treatment begins. This thorough assessment is what allows her to create a treatment plan that is truly tailored to you. The initial session typically lasts longer than follow-up appointments to allow adequate time for this conversation.
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Please make sure you have eaten within two hours of your appointment and are well hydrated beforehand. This helps avoid lightheadedness or dizziness during treatment. Wear loose, comfortable clothing if possible, and try to arrive a few minutes early so you have time to settle before your session begins.
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This depends on your individual condition, how long you have had it, and how your body responds to treatment. Some patients notice significant improvement within the first few sessions, while chronic or complex conditions typically benefit from a longer course of treatment. Dr. Hewwing will give you a realistic picture of what to expect during your initial consultation and will reassess your progress regularly.
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Many health insurance plans now include acupuncture coverage, particularly for pain management and chronic conditions. Hewwing Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine is an in-network provider for Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and UnitedHealthcare.
Please note that coverage varies significantly by individual plan. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to verify your acupuncture benefits, as some plans have session limits or require a specific diagnosis. For patients with other insurance providers, we are happy to provide a Superbill — a detailed medical receipt that you may submit to your carrier for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
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Acupuncture is generally very safe. All treatments are carried out using single-use, sterile disposable needles that are properly disposed of after each session.
Serious side effects are extremely rare — occurring in less than 0.01% of treatments. That said, we want you to feel fully informed before your appointment:
Drowsiness can occasionally occur after treatment. If you feel affected, please avoid driving until you feel fully alert
Minor bleeding, bruising, or haematomas occur in approximately 3% of treatments
Temporary discomfort during treatment occurs in about 1% of cases. Dr. Hewwing will remove the needle immediately if you experience any significant discomfort
A temporary worsening of symptoms can occur in less than 3% of patients before improvement is seen — this is often a positive sign that the body is responding to treatment. Please let Dr. Hewwing know if this happens
Fainting can occasionally occur if you are feeling weak, hungry, or tired. Please make sure you have eaten within two hours of your appointment and are well rested beforehand