FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How does acupuncture work?
Traditional East Asian medicine perspective
Acupuncture is based on a system of channels or meridians that connect different areas and functions of the body. Specific acupuncture points are selected according to a person’s symptoms and patterns of imbalance, with treatment intended to help restore more coordinated function throughout the system.
Modern biomedical perspective
Research suggests that acupuncture may influence the nervous system, local circulation, connective tissue and the release of naturally occurring chemicals involved in pain regulation and other physiological processes.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified, licensed professional. At Tara Acupuncture & Wellness, sterile, single-use needles are used for every treatment.
Some people may experience temporary effects such as mild soreness, bruising, fatigue or lightheadedness after treatment, but these are usually short-lived.
Who can perform acupuncture?
In California, acupuncture may be performed by a licensed acupuncturist or by certain other licensed healthcare professionals when acupuncture falls within their legal scope of practice and they have completed the required training.
Dr. Tara Shah is a California Licensed Acupuncturist and is nationally certified by the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine.
Are acupuncturists required to use sterile, disposable needles?
Yes. Licensed acupuncturists in California are required to use sterile, single-use, disposable acupuncture needles.
At Tara Acupuncture & Wellness, all acupuncture needles are sterile, individually packaged and disposed of immediately after use.
Will you use the same acupuncture points during each session?
Not necessarily. Acupuncture treatments are adjusted based on how you are feeling at each visit, how your symptoms have changed and what Dr. Shah observes during the appointment.
Some points may be used repeatedly, while others may change from one session to the next as your needs evolve.
What conditions may benefit from acupuncture?
Acupuncture may be used for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:
• Body pain and muscle tension, TMJ disorders, headaches and migraines, arthritis and sports injuries
• Neurological concerns such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke recovery and Bell’s palsy
• Allergies, autoimmune conditions and recovery from cold or flu symptoms
• Insomnia, anxiety, depression, stress and addiction support
• Menstrual pain and irregularities, as well as male and female fertility concerns
• Digestive concerns such as gastritis, GERD and IBS
How many acupuncture treatments will I need and how often?
The number and frequency of treatments will vary depending on the nature, severity and duration of your concerns, as well as how you respond to treatment. Lifestyle, dietary and other recommendations may also influence your progress. Because the effects of acupuncture can be cumulative, consistency is often important.
Some people may only need a few treatments for an acute or minor concern, while longer-standing or more complex conditions may benefit from a longer course of care. When multiple treatments are recommended, visits may begin more frequently and then gradually become less frequent as symptoms improve and treatment goals change.
What does acupuncture feel like? Does it hurt?
Although everyone has a different level of sensitivity, most people feel little to no discomfort when acupuncture needles are inserted. Acupuncture needles are very thin, especially compared with the needles commonly used for injections or blood draws. You may feel a brief pinch during insertion, but this usually passes quickly.
Some people notice a slight tingling, dull ache, warmth or heaviness once the needle is in place, while others may feel very little at all.
What can I expect after acupuncture treatment?
Everyone responds to acupuncture differently. Many people feel relaxed after treatment, while others may notice changes in sleep, energy or their symptoms over the following hours or days.
Some people feel a difference after the first treatment, while for others the effects are more gradual and subtle. Mild soreness or tenderness where the needles were inserted can occasionally occur and is usually short-lived.
You may also notice very little immediately after a session, especially early in a course of treatment.
How can microneedling benefit me?
Microneedling creates controlled microchannels in the skin, which can stimulate collagen production and support skin renewal. It may also improve the absorption of topical products.
Microneedling may be used to address concerns such as:
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Acne scars and other superficial scarring
• Uneven skin texture
• Enlarged pores
• Pigmentation concerns
• Dull or aging skin
• Scalp and hair-growth concerns
How many microneedling treatments will I need?
A series of microneedling treatments is often recommended, with sessions spaced at least four weeks apart. The number of treatments you may need will depend on your individual goals, skin concerns and how your skin responds over time.
How should I prepare for my microneedling appointment?
Detailed pre-care instructions will be provided before your appointment and are also available on our Microneedling Patient Information page.
Do you accept insurance?
We are currently in network with OptumHealth Physical Health of California, including California Schools VEBA, UnitedHealthcare and Cigna. For all other plans, Tara Acupuncture & Wellness is considered an out-of-network provider.
If your plan includes out-of-network acupuncture benefits, we are happy to provide a detailed superbill that you can submit for reimbursement or application toward your deductible. Please contact your insurance company before treatment to verify your specific benefits and reimbursement requirements.
We also accept HSA and FSA cards.