General FAQs about our Clinic

How do I book an appointment?
You can book an appointment by calling us directly at (619) 542-0884 or by filling out the contact form on our website.

Do you take insurance?
Yes, we do! Please note that insurance only covers acupuncture, and not massage or any of our other services. Please visit our dedicated insurance page for more information or call our office to speak with us directly.

What are your hours?
We are open Monday through Friday from 8am to 6pm. On Saturdays, we are open from 8:30am to 1pm. We are closed on Sundays.

How do I find the clinic?
Our address is 9150 Chesapeake Dr Suite 120, San Diego, CA 92123.

Acupuncture FAQs

For more acupuncture-related FAQs, please visit this dedicated page.

What are the acupuncture needles like? Do they hurt?
Acupuncture needles are solid, not hollow like needles used by doctors. They are small and hair-thin and can literally be bent with your pinky. Acupuncture needles are a fraction of the size of a hypodermic (typical “shot”) needle. Five acupuncture needles can easily fit inside the hole of a typical hypodermic needles. Insertion of the needles is basically painless, but sometimes a slight sting can occur (like a mosquito bite) when they are stimulated to release the energy.

What does an acupuncture treatment consist of?
Anywhere between 6-15 surgical grade stainless steel pins are inserted shallowly into various points on the skin. Patients generally lie down for the procedure, which may last about 15-30 minutes. The entire treatment may last 45 minutes to an hour. We only use very thin, disposable needles and most treatments are painless.

What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world, originating in China more than 2,000 years ago. The term acupuncture describes a family of procedures involving stimulation of anatomical points on the body by a variety of techniques. American practices of acupuncture incorporate medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries. The acupuncture technique that has been most studied scientifically involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation. The body's own electromagnetic energy is used as the needles stimulate that energy to promote healing.

How does acupuncture work?
The Western answer is that acupuncture stimulates nerves and helps the body achieve balance, also known as homeostasis. Acupuncture improves circulation and reduces inflammation while facilitating communication between various body systems, such as hormonal and neurological, for example, and reducing pain. The Chinese answer is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced "chee"). Qi is most closely translated into Western thought as "vital energy." We can sense this energy as heat and movement -- it is similar to electricity. Acupuncture balances and moves the Qi, which allows the body to function optimally. Chinese medicine uses tiny needles to access and activate Qi, which helps nurture the body back to health by helping resolve energy imbalances.

​Massage Therapy FAQs

How often should I receive massage?
Each person responds differently to massage. The healthy body experiences massage maintenance once a month. Specific areas that have been injured or harbor years of habitual muscle stress and tension may need massage on a minimum average of once a week.

I’ve heard that massage has to hurt in order for it to work. Is that true?
Some techniques of massage are meant to go deeper into a muscle or muscle layer. However, some areas of the body are more sensitive than others. Some practitioners have a talent for feeling how deep they can take a muscle just prior to discomfort, but it is always best to communicate with your practitioner about how much pressure you are willing to take when in need of deeper work.

​How will I feel after a massage?
This answer depends on the type of massage given. Most massages leave a person feeling relaxed and carefree. Yet others can provide a new burst of energy to the body system. It's best to talk with your therapist after the massage to see how your body responded and what to expect during future sessions.
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Does massage help with headaches?
There are specific techniques that alleviate cranial, neck, and shoulder tension. Because this muscle group area is known to cause headaches, by relieving tightness in this area, many people have obtained headache relief. ​