We treat in a community setting
Most United States acupuncturists treat patients on tables in individual cubicles. This is not traditional in Asia, where acupuncture usually occurs in a community setting. In our clinic we primarily use recliners in our quiet, soothing common room. Treating patients in a community setting has many benefits: it’s easy for friends and family members to come in for treatment together; many patients find it comforting; and the collective energy of many treatments happening at once actually makes individual treatments more powerful. Originally developed by Working Class Acupuncture in Portland, Oregon, community acupuncture is catching on nationwide as a way to get high quality, affordable healthcare without relying on insurance companies.
What to expect at your treatment
Your acupuncture treatment may include points on your arms and hands, legs and feet, and/or head and neck. Because acupuncture channels flow across the entire body it is possible to treat back problems, for example, with points on the hands and feet. You will not need to undress, but please do wear loose clothing that can comfortably roll up to your elbows and knees. Depending on your condition, we may also suggest an herbal formula.
We have a sliding scale
Most acupuncturists in the US also see only one patient per hour and charge $75 to $175 per treatment. They tend to spend a long time talking with each patient, going over medical records and asking many questions. We don’t. The only way that we at SAP can make acupuncture affordable and still make a living ourselves is to streamline our treatments and see multiple patients in an hour, so we have returned to the traditional approach. On your first visit we will ask you some questions and go over your health questionnaire, but on subsequent visits we will just get a brief update and then use tongue and pulse diagnosis to decide how to treat you.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people find acupuncture treatments very relaxing and comfortable. Acupuncture needles are very fine, so patients often feel nothing or just a very slight sensation when the needle is inserted. While you are resting with the needles in place you may feel some tingling, heaviness, or other sensations of energy movement. All of these are normal and usually pleasant; if anything becomes uncomfortable just let us know and we’ll gladly adjust it.