Prior to your first session, you will have an intake call with Dr. Forbes to discuss your concerns and review your health history. Your first session of acupuncture will last about 60-90 minutes, depending on the severity of your condition. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and expect to feel relaxed afterwards. After the visit we will provide a treatment summary, including personalized diet, lifestyle, herbal, and/or pharmaceutical recommendations when indicated. 

Follow-up acupuncture appointments are approximately 45 minutes. The number of sessions needed varies depending on your condition and individual response. Typically, Dr. Forbes recommends 6-8 weekly sessions for most conditions. Chronic issues may require more treatments, while acute conditions might resolve in fewer sessions. Dr. Forbes will provide a personalized treatment plan during your first visit.

Acupuncture should not be painful! You may feel a slight pinch when the needles are inserted, followed by a dull ache or tingling sensation. You might feel nothing at all.  Most patients find the experience relaxing and even fall asleep during treatment. Dr. Forbes uses very thin, sterile needles and her gentle technique ensures maximum comfort.

Side effects are minimal. Sometimes patients experience mild bruising, slight bleeding, or soreness at needle sites, which typically indicate a stagnation of Qi and resolve quickly. Rarely, patients may feel lightheaded or tired after treatment. Dr. Forbes will discuss potential side effects and how to manage them during your consultation.

Many insurance plans now cover acupuncture, especially for certain conditions like chronic pain. Coverage varies by provider and plan. We recommend checking with your insurance company about your specific coverage. Our office does not bill insurance but we can provide superbills or any other necessary documentation for patients to file claims themselves.

Dr. Forbes practices medical acupuncture, which integrates traditional Chinese acupuncture with modern medical knowledge. Her background in Family Medicine allows her to blend Western diagnostic skills with Eastern healing techniques, providing a comprehensive approach to your health concerns. She also uses a few different acupuncture techniques, from auricular acupuncture to Chinese scalp acupuncture, adapting the points used to suit the patient's response to treatment in the moment.

Yes, acupuncture often works well alongside conventional medical treatments. Dr. Forbes' training in both Western and Eastern medicine allows her to safely integrate acupuncture with your current medical regimen. Always inform Dr. Forbes of all medications and treatments you're receiving to ensure coordinated care.

No worries! Dr. Forbes is certified in Marma therapy, which is an ayurvedic approach very similar to acupuncture but does not involve any needles. Similar to acupressure, certain points on the body are pressed for approximately 90 seconds to elicit a physiological response comparable to using an acupuncture needle. Marma therapy appointments last from 30-60 minutes depending on the presenting concerns.