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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about acupuncture, herbal medicine, and getting started at Thrive Acupuncture & Wellness.

Acupuncture

What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a gentle, effective medical system that has been used for thousands of years. By placing hair-thin needles at specific points on the body, acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and support your body’s natural healing processes.
No! Most people are surprised by how gentle it is. The needles are hair-thin—much finer than injection needles—and flexible. You might feel a tiny pinch when inserted, followed by sensations of warmth, tingling, or a dull ache. These are signs the acupuncture point is “activating.”
The overall experience is deeply relaxing. Many patients fall asleep during treatment. If you’re nervous about needles, tell us—we’ll explain everything and go at your pace.
Acupuncture can help with a wide range of health concerns. Acupuncture is effective for pain (back, neck, joints, headaches, neuropathy), stress and anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, allergies and sinus problems, immune support, fatigue, and much more. We’re a general medicine practice, so we treat the whole person.
If you’re unsure whether acupuncture can help your specific condition, give us a call at (707) 527-0868 or schedule a free consultation.
Acupuncture works in several ways. From a Chinese medicine perspective, it regulates the flow of Qi (energy) through channels in the body. From a Western perspective, it stimulates nerves, muscles, and connective tissue, helping release endorphins, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and activate the body’s natural healing responses.
We use advanced acupuncture techniques designed to create meaningful change quickly. While every person responds differently, many patients notice improvement during or soon after treatment. Our goal is not just temporary relief but addressing the underlying causes of your symptoms.
Most people feel deeply relaxed, sometimes a little “floaty” or pleasantly tired. This is normal and actually a good sign—it means your nervous system is shifting out of stress mode. Drink plenty of water, rest if you can, and avoid intense activity for a few hours. You’ll likely sleep really well that night.

Your First Visit

What happens at my first appointment?

Your first visit includes:

1. Intake & Assessment (20-40 minutes)
We’ll discuss your health history, current concerns, lifestyle, sleep, digestion, stress, and goals. We may also check your pulse and look at your tongue—important diagnostic tools in Chinese medicine.

2. First Treatment (30 minutes)
You’ll receive your first acupuncture session. Most patients feel some relief during or immediately after this first treatment.

3. Treatment Plan
We’ll explain what we discovered, our recommended approach, and how many sessions you’ll likely need.

Total time: About 90 minutes.

No. Most patients simply book their first acupuncture appointment online. If you’d prefer to speak with us first, we’re happy to offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation to answer your questions.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that can easily be rolled up to access your arms and legs. We typically need access to lower legs, arms from the elbows down, and above the neck. We provide sheets and ensure your comfort and modesty throughout treatment.
  • Eat a light meal 1-2 hours before (don’t come on an empty stomach)
  • Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs
  • Avoid heavy perfume or scented products
  • Arrive 10 minutes early if it’s your first visit
  • Bring a list of current medications and supplements
Many patients feel some relief after their very first session! You might notice reduced pain, improved mood, better energy, deeper relaxation, or better sleep that night. However, acupuncture has a cumulative effect—each treatment builds on the last, so continued improvement happens over time.
Tell us! We’ll explain everything we’re doing, start with fewer needles, and go at your pace. Most people who are nervous are pleasantly surprised by how gentle and relaxing acupuncture actually is. We’re here to make you comfortable.

Treatment Plans & Frequency

How many treatments will I need?

It depends on your condition:

• Acute issues: 1–3 treatments may resolve the problem
• Chronic conditions: 8–12 treatments often bring significant improvement
• Complex or long-standing conditions: 12–20+ treatments may be needed

Typical schedule: Weeks 1-4: 1-2 times per week (intensive healing phase) Weeks 5-8: Once weekly (stabilizing improvements) Weeks 9+: Every 2-4 weeks (maintenance and continued progress) We’ll create a personalized schedule based on your needs and budget.
Absolutely! Many patients continue with monthly or seasonal “tune-up” treatments even after their main concerns resolve. It’s a great way to stay balanced, prevent problems, and optimize your health.
We require 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations may be charged a fee. We understand emergencies happen—just call us as soon as possible at (707) 527-0868.

Herbal Medicine

What is Chinese herbal medicine?
Chinese herbs are natural plant-based medicines used for thousands of years. We create custom formulas specifically for your unique pattern of imbalance, combining multiple herbs that work synergistically to restore balance and promote healing.
Yes—when prescribed by a trained herbalist. We use only high-quality, tested herbs from reputable suppliers, check for interactions with your medications, and monitor your progress. Chinese herbal medicine has an excellent safety record.
No! Herbs are optional but highly recommended. While acupuncture alone can be very effective, adding herbs accelerates your healing because they work 24/7 between acupuncture sessions. Many patients see significantly faster results when combining both treatments.
Chinese herbal formulas vary in taste. Some are mild, others are bitter or earthy. Most patients adjust quickly, and many mix them with a little honey or juice if needed.
Mix 1-2 teaspoons of powder with hot water, stir, and drink 2-3 times daily. Many patients take them with meals. The whole process takes less than 2 minutes.
Many people notice subtle shifts within days—better sleep, more energy, improved digestion. More significant changes typically show up within 2-4 weeks. Complex or chronic conditions may take 2-3 months to see full resolution.
It depends on what we’re treating. Acute issues might only need 1-2 weeks. Chronic conditions typically need 2-3 months. The goal isn’t to keep you on herbs forever—it’s to help your body restore balance and maintain it on its own.
It’s a powerful herbal liniment that provides remarkable relief for muscle pain, joint pain, inflammation, and sports injuries. Many patients keep a bottle at home and use it daily.

Insurance & Payment

Do you take insurance?
Worker’s Compensation: Yes! We bill directly. Other insurance: We’re out-of-network but provide detailed SuperBills that many insurance companies reimburse for out-of-network acupuncture. Call our office at (707) 527-0868 to discuss your specific coverage—our office manager can help you understand your options!
A SuperBill is a detailed receipt with all the information your insurance company needs to process your claim for out-of-network reimbursement. We provide these for every visit at no extra charge. You submit it to your insurance, and they reimburse you directly based on your out-of-network benefits.
Yes! Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and supplements all qualify for HSA/FSA reimbursement. We accept HSA/FSA cards as payment.
We offer discounted treatment packages (listed above) that make regular care more affordable. For other payment arrangements, please talk with our office manager—we want to work with you.

Safety & Health Concerns

Are the needles sterile?
Yes! We use single-use, pre-sterilized, disposable needles. Every needle is used only once and then safely disposed of. There is zero risk of infection or cross-contamination.
Yes! Acupuncture is safe and beneficial during pregnancy for nausea, back pain, anxiety, labor preparation, and more. We use pregnancy-safe points and avoid contraindicated areas. Always tell us if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive.
In most cases, yes! Acupuncture works synergistically with most medications and can even help reduce the need for them over time. We’ll review all your medications during your first visit to ensure safety.
Regular acupuncture needles are safe with pacemakers and metal implants. We avoid certain electrical stimulation techniques if you have a pacemaker, but standard acupuncture poses no risk.
Very few situations! Avoid acupuncture if you:
  • Have a serious bleeding disorder
  • Are actively intoxicated
  • Have a fever over 101°F (call us—we can reschedule)
  • Have an active infection at treatment sites
If you have any health concerns, just let us know and we’ll determine the safest approach.
Yes! We treat children ages 8 and up.