FAQs

Some common questions about acupuncture are answered below.

Call us if you have other questions or if you are interested in improving your life through acupuncture treatment.

Whats is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a time-tested and comprehensive system of medicine that supports whole-body health. Rooted in centuries of clinical practice, it offers a natural, noninvasive approach to healing. Practitioners of Chinese medicine use acupuncture to assess and support the body’s innate ability to recover, helping countless individuals restore and maintain their well-being.

During treatment, ultra-fine, sterile needles are gently inserted at specific points on the body. This stimulates the nervous system, enhances circulation, and promotes the release of the body’s natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory chemicals. These effects help regulate physiological functions, reduce stress, and encourage the body’s healing processes.

Acupuncture is a safe, gentle, and evidence-informed therapy that can play an effective role in the treatment of both acute and chronic conditions.

What to expect during your acupuncture visit?
Your first visit will include a detailed conversation about your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and any specific concerns you’d like to address. Dr. Mary will also perform a physical assessment, which includes checking your pulse and observing your tongue. (If you normally brush your tongue, please skip it on the day of your visit to allow for an accurate assessment.)

This comprehensive evaluation helps inform a personalized treatment plan designed to address both immediate symptoms and underlying patterns contributing to your health concerns.

The initial appointment lasts approximately 90 minutes and includes your first acupuncture treatment. Follow-up visits are about 60 minutes and include a brief check-in, your acupuncture session, and any additional therapies that may be appropriate.

What will my acupuncturist do?
During the initial exam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms, health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment. Visits with your acupuncturist may last from thirty to ninety minutes.
Is acupuncture safe for children?
Yes. In some instances children actually respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure or tuina.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of acupuncture treatments needed varies from person to person. Some individuals experience improvement quickly, while others—particularly those with chronic or long-standing conditions—may require a longer course of care. In general, acute concerns tend to respond more rapidly than chronic ones.

Treatment frequency depends on several factors, including your overall health, how long the condition has been present, and how your body responds to treatment. Dr. Mary may recommend weekly or twice-weekly sessions initially, with adjustments as progress is made. As symptoms improve, occasional visits may be recommended for continued support or seasonal maintenance.

How much does it cost?
Initial Visits (90 minutes) are $180
Return Visits (60 minutes) are $135

House Calls:
Initial Visits (120 minutes) are $320
Return Visits (90 minutes) are $275

Microneedling: Please call for Rates

Will my insurance cover acupuncture?
Ascending Dragon Acupuncture does not bill insurance directly. However, we are happy to provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
Preparing for your acupuncture appointment
  • Please write down any questions or concerns you may have
  • Please wear loose, comfortable clothing to allow easy access to areas commonly treated with acupuncture. These areas are typically arms and legs.
  • Please eat a light meal prior to your appointment. It is best to avoid a heavy meal immediately before or after your treatment.
  • After your appointment, it is best to avoid intense exercise, alcohol, recreational drugs and emotional stress.
  • Between visits, take note of any changes in your symptoms—such as reduced pain, shifts in discomfort, changes in energy or mood, or anything else that feels different. These details can help guide your ongoing care.
How safe is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects just feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.
How are acupuncturists educated?
Dr. Mary completed six years of rigorous training at Five Branches University, earning both her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Traditional Chinese Medicine. She is nationally certified as a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and is licensed to practice in the state of California.
What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health and the World Health Organization for its effectiveness in treating a wide range of medical problems.

  • Adverse reactions to chemotherapy and radiation
  • Addiction
  • Anxiety/Stress
  • Chronic Pain
  • Cancer Pain
  • Carpal Tunnel
  • Chronic Fatigue
  • Digestive Issues
  • Emotional Issues
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Insomnia
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • Low Back Pain
  • Men’s Health Issues
  • Nausea
  • PTSD
  • Sore Throat
  • Shoulder Pain
  • Sports Injuries
  • Women’s Health Issues
  • Vomiting
  • AND MORE!

Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?

Whether you’re managing pain, recovering from stress, or building long-term wellness — we’re here to help. Book your appointment today and take the next step toward feeling your best.
Schedule Your Appointment Today