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We’re all unique and have different needs and considerations when it comes to our health. Many people are unsure of how acupuncture can help them or if acupuncture can address the problem they are facing. At the consultation we review case, answer all questions, and then give you our best recommendation. We’ll recommend the best-suited therapies for your condition, treatment frequency, expected results and cost. Not everyone is a good candidate for acupuncture; we will refer out if need be. After many years in practice, we have found that an initial consultation sets the stage for a more effective, more personalized healing journey that yields better results. Our patients have repeatedly told us that it was the initial consultation that confirmed they were in the right place at Four Gates. 

Once you’ve had your initial consultation and are ready to jump in and begin your customized treatment plan, we’ll schedule your first acupuncture treatment – often the same day as your consultation. For your first treatment, be sure to wear loose comfortable clothing and eat something at least one hour beforehand.  Your first appointment will last about 45 minutes to 1 hour. During the acupuncture treatment, the needles are retained for about 15-30 minutes. Most patients become deeply relxed or even fall asleep for a restorative power nap.

The benefits of acupuncture start immediately.  After your first treatment you could experience an excellent night of sleep, higher energy, more focus, less stress and a reduction in pain.

• Stimulating the immune system and increasing white blood cells, which defend the body against infection.
• Regulating blood sugar metabolism, which helps the body use energy more efficiently.
• Increasing blood circulation and producing beneficial changes in blood pressure; Decreasing cholesterol and triglycerides.
• Increasing stomach peristaltic activity and regulating digestive fluids, thereby improving digestion.
• Regulating and stimulating serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is directly related to sleep, appetite, and moods.
• Increasing the availability of receptors in the brain that process and weaken pain signals.
• Affecting both the brain’s short- and long-term ability to reduce pain sensation.

Fear of needles is not uncommon and it’s normal to be a little unsure at first!  Most of us have only experienced hypodermic needles through blood draws and injections – which are uncomfortable experiences.  The sensation you feel from an acupuncture needle is nothing like the feeling you get with a shot.  

• Acupuncture needles are sterile and single use
• Acupuncture needles are extremely fine – about the width of a human hair.
• Most people report either not feeling the needles at all, or noticing them briefly as they are inserted.  Some points may have more sensation than others, a deep dull heavy sensation or a quick little pinch may be noticeable.

The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions, one or two treatments a week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health maintenance, we recommend monthly tune ups. Acupuncture treatments build upon themselves, so the frequency and consistency of treatment is vital to the improvement of your condition.

We offer multiple treatment modalities and rates vary depending on which treatments are being administered. The most effective blend of therapies for your condition will be determined at your initial consultation- so costs will vary depending on the specifics of your case. At Four Gates Acupuncture we bill insurance. As a courtesy, we will verify your insurance benefits and discuss the specifics at your consultation.  If you would like to know your plan specifics prior to your consultation, you will need to call your insurance company to inquire of your benefits in advance. We are in network with Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Harvard Pilgrim.  We also bill Anthem Blue Cross as an out of network provider and, for the vast majority of plans, there is little-to-no difference between in-network and out-of-network benefit levels. Please note: insurance companies only cover pain-related conditions and do not cover preventative or wellness care. 

Occasionally you may feel sleepy following a treatment & if this is the case make sure to take it easy.  Stay hydrated and try not to do any heavy exercise in the few hours following treatment.