Heather Finn, M.Ac.     
Licensed Acupuncturist
  
Feel like yourself again.
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FAQs
What does acupuncture treat?

What are the needles like?  Do they hurt?
    I use sterile, disposable needles.  They are used once,
    on you, and then discarded.  Acupuncture needles are
    not much thicker than a human hair.  

    Sometimes there is a slight pinch when the needle is
    inserted, comparable to a mosquito bite.  Many patients
    are surprised that the needles are not painful, and are
    surprised at how relaxed they feel during and after the
    treatment.  I have even had a patient who routinely fell
    asleep while I was inserting his needles.

How many treatments will it take before I feel better?
    The number of treatments needed to relieve symptoms
    will vary from person to person.  It will depend of the
    severity of the condition, and how long you have had it.  
    An acute problem may be resolved in one or two
    treatments.  A long-standing, chronic condition may
    take much longer.  In general, receiving four to six
    treatments is enough to tell how responsive you are to
    acupuncture and if further treatments are warranted.

    Acupuncture can also prevent illness and maintain
    health.  Many have discovered its benefits of reducing
    stress, preventing burnout, and promoting health.  
    Prevention and maintenance patients enjoy treatments
    once a week to once every month.

Are acupuncture and Chinese medicine the same
thing?
    Traditional Chinese Medicine is the theory,
    acupuncture is its best known tool.  My knowledge of
    Traditional Chinese Medicine is what enables me to
    diagnose a person and develop a treatment plan.  
    Acupuncture is the major tool in the treatment.

    Other tools in the Traditional Chinese Medicine tool box
    are cupping, gua sha, herbal medicine, and
    moxibustion.  Because acupuncture is the best known
    of the group, the words "acupuncture" and "Traditional
    Chinese Medicine" are often used interchangeably
    although this is not precisely correct.

What are your fees?
    A first visit is $115, which covers a thorough intake and
    a mini- treatment.  Follow-up visits are $70.

Do you accept insurance?
    In Connecticut, some insurance companies  (including
    Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Connecticare) offer a
    discount for people under their coverage.  Patients pay
    for the service directly, but they do so at a reduced rate

How should I prepare for my first visit?
  • Wear loose fitting clothes that can easily be moved
    above the elbows and knees.  Avoid one-piece items
    like dresses, or underwear such as girdles.  
  • Eat breakfast.  People who receive acupuncture on an
    empty stomach run the risk of fainting.  
  • If you are going to have a big workout on the day of
    your treatment, do it before you come.  Otherwise, you
    can disrupt the effects of your treatment and the deep
    relaxation that results.