FAQ
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient medicine that involves the insertion of very fine, sterile, single-use needles into specifics points (acupuncture points) on the body. When acupuncture points are stimulated they regulate organ function, balance hormones, reduce inflammation, clear stress, improve circulation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing response.
How does acupuncture work?
The mechanism of acupuncture is still being studied extensively. There are thousands of studies that demonstrate acupuncture’s efficacy, although how acupuncture works is not known in all cases. Acupuncture points lie over nerve branches, and one proposed mechanism is that the stimulation of these nerves with an acupuncture needle regulates the nervous system to normalize physiology. Research has proven that acupuncture decreases inflammation, increases blood flow, decreases stress hormones, increases endorphins, and regulates hormones.
Will insurance cover my acupuncture visit?
Revive Acupuncture is in-network with the following insurance carriers:
- Cigna
- United Health Care
- Sutter Select
- Medrisk
- Homelink
Revive Acupuncture is out-of-network with the following insurance carriers:
- Aetna
- Anthem Blue Cross
- Blue Shield
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- American Health Specialty
- Health Net
Revive Acupuncture will accept some insurance policies out-of-network.
This is decided on a case-to-case basis depending on the coverage of the out-of-network insurance plan. Please contact our clinic to learn if we will accept your insurance policy out-of-network.
We provide benefit checks for all insurance carriers with the exception of Blue Shield and ASH. For patients with Blue Shield and ASH insurance, please call the member services contact number on the back of your insurance card to learn your out-of-network acupuncture benefits.
For patients with all other insurance policies outside of Blue Shield and ASH, please go to our Insurance Verification page to request a benefits check.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture uses extremely thin needles. When the needle is inserted most people feel a slight sensation, however, some individuals feel no pain at all. Let the acupuncturist know if you have anxiety about needles, and he or she will be especially sensitive and can use pediatric needles if you prefer.
Where are the acupuncture points?
Acupuncture points cover the entire body, but the commonly used points are below the elbow, below the knee, on the abdomen, on the back, and on the head.
What will happen at my first visit?
The session starts with a 45 minute interview where we discuss your health history, lab work, and diet. After the interview, you come onto a massage style table for the Chinese medicine exam. This involves taking the pulse and looking at the tongue. Next is the acupuncture treatment, which involves the insertion of 10-20 acupuncture needles. The needles are left in place for 20-40 minutes. Most patients describe this time as very relaxing. Many fall asleep. After the treatment, some will feel very relaxed while others might feel slightly energized.
How long is each acupuncture session?
The initial visit lasts 60-90 minutes. Follow-up sessions last about 60 minutes.
What should I wear to my visit?
It is best to wear comfortable loose fitting clothes to allow access to acupuncture points. If this is not possible then we can provide towels so you can undress and drape them over you.
How many sessions will I need?
Acupuncture is typically received once to twice weekly. The total number of treatments required will be different for each patient. Typically a chronic condition will require a longer course of treatment, while an acute condition will require a shorter course of treatment. Please discuss with your Revive provider how many sessions he or she expects to resolve your particular health issue.