Front Desk Hours
Mon: 7AM-9:30PM
Tue: 7AM-9:00PM
Wed: 7:00AM-8:30PM
Thu: 7:00AM-9:30PM
Fri: 7:00AM-8:30PM
Sat: 7:30AM-4:00PM
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people are nervous scheduling their first acupuncture appointment, not knowing what to expect. Many of those same people leave our clinic feeling calm and energized after treatments.
Q. How does Oriental medicine work?
A. By stimulating certain points using acupuncture needles or by prescribing Chinese herbs, practitioners work to balance "qi" (energy) throughout the body, allowing the patient to achieve optimal health.
Q. What can I expect at my first appointment?
A. One or two interns will meet with you to review your health history, symptoms, medications, diet and daily habits. They will ask you questions and conduct a physical exam. Then they will present and discuss your condition with their clinical supervisor -- an experienced and licensed practitioner -- so a treatment plan can be created for you. You will receive a treatment on your first appointment.
Q. I don't like needles. Does acupuncture hurt?
A. No. The needles used for acupuncture are extremely thin, smaller than needles used to draw blood or give shots. They are inserted at certain identifiable points in your body, depending on your condition. While some patients experience a slight sensation where the needle is inserted, others report no feeling at all.
Q. Are needles clean and safe?
A. Absolutely. Interns use pre-sterilized, single-use needles for all acupuncture treatments. All needles are discarded after your treatment.
Q. How long will the appointment take?
A. Your first appointment will usually take between 60-75 minutes. Your subsequent appointments to carry out your treatment plan will be an hour.
Q. I'm thinking of trying Chinese herbs. Are they safe?
A. Yes. All of the Chinese herbal products used in the NESA dispensary are manufactured and distributed by companies meeting FDA Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. Our in-house herbal dispensary adheres to GMP standards as well. This means that all herbs have been tested for the presence of heavy metals, pesticides and microorganisms and certified safe. We also investigate each distributor thoroughly, which means our herbs are of consistently high quality.
Q. Do I need to do anything before going to the NESA clinic?
Please be sure to wear loose, comfortable clothing and refrain from wearing any scented perfumes, aftershave, lotions or body oils to your appointment. It's a good idea to have a small meal or snack before your treatment.
Q. When can I expect results?
A. That varies. Many patients leave their first treatments feeling relaxed or revitalized, but it may take several treatments before your condition improves. Every person is different, so results can vary.
Q. Who gets acupuncture in the NESA clinic?
A. Everyone - children over age eight through grandparents! People from all walks of life get acupuncture. Many, such as athletes and dancers, come in for treatment of injuries. Still others have treatments to promote good health and well-being. They are everyday people, such as your family, friends and neighbors.
