Frequently Asked Questions

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are about the width of a human hair. It is my intention to make the treatments that I give relaxing and pain free. It is common to feel a slight pressure or twinge upon insertion of the needle, but that sensation should subside within 30 seconds or so. Most people do not consider that sensation painful. In addition, most people find receiving a treatment very relaxing and often fall asleep during the treatment.

What if I am afraid of needles, but want to receive the benefits of Chinese Medicine?

If this is the case, you could consider coming in for an herbal consultation. My office has a complete granular herbal pharmacy of 200 herbs. I select a few of those herbs and combine them into a custom formula that works to bring your body into balance. This herbal formula is taken as a tea...you pour hot water over it and drink it. I also have herbal formulations in pill form.

How long should it take before I see results?

I recommend 6 visits to see results in your condition. Some people may see results after the first treatment and some people may take a few more visits. A rule of thumb to consider is: the longer you have had the condition, the longer it usually takes to see results.

How often should I receive treatment?

Once a week is ideal. Sometimes twice or three times a week is necessary initially if your condition warrants this.

How long do the appointments take?

An initial consultation takes an hour and a half. Regular appointments last about an hour.

What are some of the conditions you have had success in treating?

What are the side effects of acupuncture?

One of the benefits of acupuncture is the absence of side effects. If anything, you may feel relaxed, centered, and mellow after a treatment. Rarely, there may be some slight bruising around the insertion of a needle, but it is usually not painful.

Does Lakewood Acupuncture accept insurance?

I am happy to give you a Superbill, which is a receipt that you submit to your insurance company for reimbursement for your treatment if your health insurance covers acupuncture. I am eligible to receive money from Flex Spending Accounts. I do not bill your insurance directly.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, check, Mastercard, and Visa

What does it take to become a Licensed Acupuncturist?

Getting a degree in Oriental Medicine is a 4 year, 3000 hour, Master’s degree program. In addition to obtaining the Master’s degree, one must sit for the National Board Exams set forth by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). It is then up to the state of residence to issue an acupuncture license. Holly holds a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College. In addition, she is a Diplomate in Oriental Medicine by the NCCAOM, having sat for all 4 Board Exams: Acupuncture Theory, Point Location, Biomedicine and Herbal Medicine. The State of Colorado has issued Holly’s license to practice Oriental Medicine. To find out more about Holly’s education and background, go to the ‘About’ section.

Disclaimer: The above information is just that: information. Please consult a heath care practitioner before taking action with your own health care needs.