Do I have to have an appointment?
No, although appointments are recommended. We have an easy scheduler on the Home page. We do take walk-ins, even for first time visits, if there is a chair available. Also, you can call us when you are on your way and we’ll save you a spot.
What can acupuncture help me with?
Allergies Anxiety Arthritis Asthma Bell’s palsy Chemo side effects Depression Digestive problems Eczema Fatigue Fertility High blood pressure Hives Hot flashes IBS Injuries Insomnia Jet lag Knee pain Migraines Neck pain Plantar fasciitis PMS Rashes Stress Sugar addiction Surgical recovery Tendonitis Tennis elbow TMJ And more!
If you are unsure whether acupuncture will treat your health concern, please give us a call. We’ll be happy to talk with you about how acupuncture can help you feel your best.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people feel very little or no pain at all. Sometimes there is an uncomfortable sensation for the first few seconds after needle insertion and then it goes away.
The needles we use are very small. In fact, 20 acupuncture needles can fit inside 1 conventional hypodermic needle. Acupuncture needles are so thin that they push the cells aside, slipping between them. That’s why acupuncture needles seldom cause bruising or pain.
How can you help my back or hip pain if I am lying on my back in a recliner?
If you are able to lay on your side, Ashley will help you get comfortable by bolstering you with pillows. Then she can access the painful areas directly. If you are more comfortable lying on your back, she will use points along the meridians of the affected areas. Both methods are effective for back and hip pain.
How many treatments will I need?
Acupuncture is not a one-time fix, it works best in a series of treatments. 4-6 are often recommended to start with. For acute conditions, more treatments in a short time are effective. Regular treatments spaced farther apart are better for chronic health problems. Ashley will give you a treatment plan on your first visit.
How many needles will I have?
Usually between 10 and 30, depending on what is going on with you.
Where will the needles be placed on my body?
That depends on why you are getting acupuncture. Most people get them on their arms, legs, and head. You may also have them on your neck, shoulders, abdomen or back.
What types of payments do you accept?
Cash, checks, and all major credit/debit cards. Most flexible spending accounts cover acupuncture, or you could also use your health savings account to pay for treatments. We do not take insurance.
How long does a treatment take?
The ideal treatment time is 30-60 minutes. Most people stay 45 minutes, but a little less or more time is just fine.
Is acupuncture safe?
Absolutely. The needles are very small, much smaller than the needles used for injections and vaccinations. The needles are sterile and after they are used one time, they are discarded. We never re-use needles.
Acupuncture doesn’t add anything to or take anything away from the body. It either encourages the body’s own healing power to take effect or very rarely nothing happens.
Do you have lots of parking available?
Yes! We are located in North Central Austin at the SE corner of Richcreek and Burnet Rd. Our shopping center, Richcreek Plaza, has a nice big parking lot.
What should I wear?
Shorts or loose pants, and a tank top or a loose t-shirt. We will need access to your arms and legs. If you are coming in for neck, shoulder, or upper back issues, please be sure to wear something that allows access to these areas. Collared shirts, turtlenecks, leggings, and skinny jeans are not recommended.
How many practitioners do you have?
Just one! Ashley O’Brian owns the clinic and does all of the acupuncture treatments.