What should I expect?
Most people feel very relaxed while they are receiving treatment and afterwards.

You will be in a room with other people* who are also receiving treatment.  Many people are skeptical about this until they experience it first hand.  The relaxation effect of the acupuncture seems to be enhanced by the group setting.  There are many things that are enhanced by a group experience and it turns out that for many people acupuncture is one of those things.
*During COVID 19 we have reduced our capacity by 50% to allow for social distancing in the treatment rooms.

How long is a treatment?
The first time you come to the clinic you should allow 1 1/2 hours*, so that you will not feel rushed, but you may need less time.  For follow up treatments you should allow 1 hour.  Most people like to rest for 30-60 minutes with their needles in.
*During COVID 19 we will be pulling your needles after 30-45 minutes so that we can maintain social distancing in the clinic.

What if I’m afraid of needles?
Acupuncture needles are very different than hypodermic needles.  
Acupuncture needles are solid and not much thicker than a piece of hair, hypodermic needles are hollow and are much thicker.  

So, acupuncture needles are more comfortable for most people.

Does it hurt?
Most people feel nothing or a pin prick during placement of the needles.  

Some points may feel achey when the needle is placed, and then calm down while you rest.  The acupuncturist will ask if everything is comfortable before they leave you to rest and make any necessary adjustments so that you can rest comfortably.

Where do you put the needles?
Needles may be placed on the head, neck, ears, abdomen, and lower limbs (below the elbows and knees).  Most community acupuncturists practice a style of acupuncture that allows treatment for any body condition primarily using these areas of the body.

Are needles re-used?
NO!  Needles come in sterile packaging and are only used one time.  They are disposed of in special containers as medical waste.Is it effective?
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How many treatments will I need?
Acupuncture is very effective for many conditions.  How much treatment you will need depends on your overall health, how long you have had the condition, and what type of condition it is.  Your acupuncturist will discuss a treatment plan with you so that you can get the best possible result.

Do you take insurance?
No.  This is one of the ways that we can offer such affordable pricing.  For most people our sliding scale is equal to the cost of a co-pay.

Is there parking?
On street parking is by meters ($1.50/hour) or city of Cambridge Resident Permit Parking.  
The closest garages are Propark Boston’s Holyoke Center garage at 1350 Mass Avenue and Harvard Parking Garage at 1033 Mass Ave.

Is the clinic near the T?
Yes!  we are 0.2 miles from the Harvard Square Redline station, across the street from the #1 bus.What should I wear?

Do I have to take my clothes off?
You do not have to disrobe.  You should wear loose comfortable clothing.  You should be able to roll your pants up above your knees, and your sleeves up above your elbows.

Some people like to bring shorts that they can change into. *During COVID 19 we will not have a changinf area*

Other things to know:
• It is best not to be too hungry, or too full when you come in for a treatment.
• Drink plenty of water afterwards.
• If you are being treated for pain, and you feel better, don’t over do it just because you feel better.

What forms of payment do you accept?
We take cash (always appreciated), checks, and credit cards (including HSA cards).