Frequently Asked Questions
Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine in Charleston, SC
What happens at my first acupuncture visit?
Your first visit is about getting to know you.
We'll talk through your health history, what you're experiencing, what you'd like to improve, and what you've tried before. From there, we'll develop a personalized treatment approach based on your individual needs.
Your first visit typically includes a full acupuncture treatment, and depending on what would be helpful for you, may also include cupping, gua sha, tui na, moxibustion, or other Chinese medicine techniques.
We may also discuss lifestyle, nutrition, movement, or Chinese herbal medicine as part of your overall care.
Most importantly, you'll have time to ask questions and understand your treatment plan.
Does acupuncture hurt?
For most people, acupuncture is surprisingly comfortable.
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin—much thinner than the needles typically used for injections or blood draws. You may feel a brief pinch or a mild sensation as a needle is placed, but many people feel little or nothing at all.
Once the needles are in place, most patients describe feeling relaxed, heavy, warm, or pleasantly calm. Some people even fall asleep during their treatment.
What if I'm afraid of needles?
That's completely okay. A fear of needles doesn't mean acupuncture isn't for you. We use very small needles and an extremely gentle technique, and we'll always work within your comfort level.
There are also many non-needle techniques we can use, including acupressure, tui na, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, and other approaches.
You never have to “push through” something that makes you uncomfortable. We'll find an approach that feels right for you.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a properly trained and licensed practitioner using sterile, single-use needles.
At Balance, all acupuncture needles are sterile, disposable, and used only once. Your practitioner will also review your health history and any relevant medications or health conditions to determine what approaches are appropriate for you.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
A few simple things can make your treatment more comfortable:
Eat a light meal or snack before your appointment rather than coming on an empty stomach.
Drink some water before and after your treatment.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows access to your arms, legs, abdomen, or back.
Avoid drinking alcohol immediately before your appointment.
Let us know about any medications, supplements, recent procedures, or changes in your health.
And don't worry if you're not sure what to wear—we'll help you get comfortable when you arrive.
What should I expect during a treatment?
After discussing your health and goals, your practitioner will develop a treatment based on what you need that day.
Acupuncture may be combined with other Chinese medicine techniques such as:
Cupping
Gua sha
Moxibustion
Acupressure
NADA ear acupuncture
Chinese herbal medicine
We may also offer guidance around nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, or other lifestyle factors that can support your goals.
Acupuncture is one tool. Your treatment is built around the whole person.
How many treatments will I need?
There isn't one treatment schedule that works for everyone.
The number and frequency of visits depends on what you're experiencing, how long you've been experiencing it, your overall health, and what you're hoping to accomplish.
Some acute concerns may improve with a shorter series of treatments. Chronic or complex concerns often benefit from more consistent care over a longer period of time.
We'll talk with you about what we recommend and why, so you can decide what feels realistic and appropriate for you.
Can I exercise after acupuncture?
It's best to give your body a little time to integrate your treatment rather than jumping immediately into a very intense workout.
Gentle movement, walking, stretching, or an easy yoga session are generally good choices after acupuncture. If you have a demanding workout, game, or competition planned, let your practitioner know so we can tailor your treatment accordingly.
Can I receive acupuncture during pregnancy?
Yes. Acupuncture can be a supportive part of care during pregnancy when performed by a qualified practitioner who is trained in prenatal acupuncture.
Your practitioner will modify your treatment throughout pregnancy and avoid acupuncture points and techniques that are not appropriate during pregnancy.
We also use pillows, bolsters, and positioning techniques to help you stay comfortable as your body changes.
Acupuncture may be used during pregnancy for concerns such as nausea, pain, stress, sleep, and general support. We also offer treatments specifically designed to prepare the body for labor when appropriate.
Do you treat children?
Yes! We love working with children and families.
Pediatric acupuncture is very different from adult acupuncture. We use extremely gentle techniques, the tiniest needles when appropriate, and many non-needle approaches.
Needles are not retained in infants and young children, and we always let the child's comfort level guide the treatment.
Learn more on our Pediatric Acupuncture page.
Can I see any of the practitioners at Balance?
Absolutely! We work as a team and share treatment notes and clinical insights when appropriate, so you can feel confident receiving care from any of our practitioners.
This also makes it easier to stay consistent with your treatment plan when schedules change or your preferred practitioner isn't available.
Each practitioner has their own areas of specialty and approach, so we're also happy to help you determine who may be the best fit for your needs.
Do I have to choose one practitioner and stay with them?
Not at all. You are welcome to work with more than one practitioner at Balance. Your care can be flexible based on your schedule, availability, and what you need.
Because we work as a team, we can communicate about your care and keep your treatment plan connected across practitioners.
Do you accept insurance?
Balance Acupuncture is an out-of-network practice and does not bill insurance directly.
You'll pay for your appointment at the time of service, and we can provide you with an itemized receipt with the appropriate information for you to submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.
Coverage varies by plan, so we recommend checking directly with your insurance provider to find out whether acupuncture is covered and what your out-of-network benefits are.
We accept HSA and FSA cards for eligible services.
Do you offer Chinese herbal medicine?
Yes! Chinese herbal medicine can be used on its own or alongside acupuncture. Your practitioner may recommend a traditional formula or a customized herbal formula based on your individual health history, symptoms, and goals.
Herbs can come in several forms, including capsules, powders, raw herbs, and topical preparations.
Because herbs can interact with medications and aren't appropriate for everyone, they should be taken under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.
Learn more about Chinese Herbal Medicine on our Services page.
Do I need to tip my acupuncturist?
No. Tips are not expected at Balance. We genuinely appreciate your trust and your kind words, but there is never any pressure or expectation to tip for acupuncture treatments.
What if I have more questions?
Please ask! We want you to feel comfortable, informed, and confident about your care. If you have a question that isn't answered here, reach out to us before your appointment and we'll be happy to help.