FAQ

Affordable and effective acupuncture in the heart of Harvard Square
Sliding scale $30-$75

If you have questions that are not addressed on the list, please don't hesitate to contact us.

  • Most people feel very relaxed during and after an acupuncture treatment.

    You will be in a room with other people* who are also receiving treatment.  Many people are skeptical about this until they experience it firsthand.  The relaxation effect of the acupuncture seems to be enhanced by the group setting.  A group experience enhances many things, and it turns out that for many people, acupuncture is one of those things.

  • The first time you visit the clinic, please allow 90 minutes to ensure you won't feel rushed, although 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.

  • 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.  Acupuncture needles are generally more comfortable for most people.

  • Most people feel nothing or a pin prick during the placement of the needles.  

    Some points may feel achy when the needle is placed, but they will 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.

  • Needles may be placed on the head, neck, ears, abdomen, and limbs.

  • NO! Needles come in sterile packaging and are only used once.

    They are disposed of in special containers as medical waste.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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. An app like Spot Hero can be very helpful for finding affordable garage parking around Harvard Square. There is permit parking within a few blocks radius for Cambridge residents.

  • Yes!  we are 0.2 miles from the Harvard Square Redline station, across the street from the #1 bus.

  • 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. It is best to bring shorts or a skirt to change into.

  • New patients please come 10 minutes early

    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.

  • We take cash, checks, and credit cards (including HSA cards).

Reviews

  • Unbelievable! Instant anxiety relief that lasts. Also, pain relief. I was struggling for years with these issues and they got resolved after the first visit. I keep going there in order to make the effect more sustainable plus I enjoy this relaxation and am not ready to let go :) Don't delay, this will change your life! Thank you, HSQCA!

    -JJ, Somerville, MA

  • I had never tried acupuncture​ before and they made me feel completely at ease. I would highly recommend Harvard Square Community Acupuncture to anyone looking to give acupuncture​ a try!

    -Anna M

  • I am a long-time migraine sufferer and this business has vastly improved my quality of life by helping me find a means to control the length and frequency of my migraines. I am no longer taking uncomfortable prescription medication to fight the migraines, as acupuncture has helped reduce the intensity. I highly recommend this business.

    - S.M.