FAQs

Acupuncture

What is acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that uses sterile, thin needles, that are inserted into specific points on the body. It helps, balance the bodies energy, a.k.a. Qi, and can be used to treat a variety of health issues.

What can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture can help with a wide range of symptoms and conditions, including PMS, migraines, digestive issues, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, infertility, and much, much more. Our treatments are customized to your individual symptoms and needs.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes, acupuncture is considered safe when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner. We are sterile, single used needles ensure safety and hygiene.

Will acupuncture hurt?

The needles that are used, are very thin and most people experience a mild sensation when the needles are inserted, but it's typically not painful. Most people report feeling relaxed during their treatment.

What should I expect during my first acupuncture session?

During your first visit, the practitioner takes a detailed health history, discusses your symptoms, and performs a few exams. You will then lie comfortably on a table while the acupuncture's takes your pulses, then creates a treatment plan. They will then insert acupuncture needles into specific points on your body, at which point  you may feel the mild sensation when the needles are inserted. This is a relaxing experience for most people.

How long does a session last?

The first session typically last 90 minutes and include an intake, physical exam, and treatment. Follow up treatments typically last 60 minutes, depending on the treatment plan.

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies, depending on the condition(s) being treated. Many patients start with either bi-weekly or weekly sessions, and as progress is made, the frequency may decrease. Your practitioner will discuss a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.

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Ear Seeds

What are ear seeds?

Ear seeds are small vaccaria seeds or metal pellets, placed on acupressure points of the ear to stimulate and promote wellness. They are a non-invasive, needle-free extension of acupuncture.

How do ear seeds work?

Ear seeds work by applying gentle, continuous pressure to acupressure points on the ear, which correspond to different areas of the body. This stimulation sends signals to the brain, which helps balance energy flow, reduce symptoms, and support overall well-being.

What conditions can ear seeds help with?

Ear seeds can support a variety of conditions, including:

• Stress and anxiety
• Insomnia and sleep disturbances
• Chronic pain (back pain, migraines, arthritis, etc.)
• Digestive issues
• Hormonal imbalances (PMS, menopause, etc.)
• Weight management and cravings
• Addiction and smoking cessation

How are ear seeds applied?

A practitioner places the seeds on specific acupressure points. They are typically left in place for 3-5 days, and you gently press on them to stimulate the point.

Can I apply ear seeds myself?

Yes! While a trained acupuncturist can provide a personalized placement based on your needs, you can also apply them at home with guidance. Ear seed kits usually come with a chart to help you find the right points.

How long should I leave ear seeds on?

Typically ear seeds are worn for 3-5 days before removing them. It’s best to give your skin a break for a day or two before reapplying new ones.

How do I remove ear seeds?

Tilt your head to your shoulder, then gently peel them off using your fingers or tweezers. If there is any adhesive residue, it can be cleaned with warm water or a mild cleanser.

Are ear seeds safe?

Yes! Ear seeds are generally safe for most people. However, if you have sensitive skin, allergies to adhesives or metals, or irritation, discontinue use and consult a practitioner.

Do ear seeds hurt?

No, ear seeds do not puncture the skin and should not cause pain. Some people may feel mild tenderness or a sensation of pressure at the points, which is normal.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are rare but may include mild irritation, redness, or itching at the application site. If discomfort occurs, remove the seeds and let the skin rest before reapplying.

Can I shower or swim with ear seeds on?

Most ear seeds are water-resistant, but prolonged exposure to water (like swimming) may cause them to loosen.

Can children or pregnant women use ear seeds?

Yes! However, pregnant women should consult a licensed acupuncturist to ensure proper point selection, as some points may stimulate labor. Ear seeds can also be used for children but should be monitored to prevent accidental swallowing, or loss of seed into ear canal.

How often should I use ear seeds?

This depends on your condition and response to treatment. Some people use them weekly, while others may only use them as needed for symptoms like stress or headaches.

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Moxibustion

What is moxibustion (moxa)?

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy that involves burning dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) near the skin or on acupuncture points. It helps stimulate healing, improve circulation, and balance the body's energy (Qi).

How does moxibustion work?

Moxa generates warmth that penetrates the skin, stimulating acupuncture points and meridians. This helps promote blood flow, reduce pain, strengthen the immune system, and support overall wellness.

What conditions can moxibustion help with?

• Pain relief (arthritis, joint pain, menstrual cramps, digestive discomfort)
• Fatigue and low energy
• Cold conditions (cold hands/feet, weak digestion)
• Breech baby correction in pregnancy
• Strengthening the immune system
• Supporting digestion and metabolism

Does moxibustion hurt?

No, moxibustion is a gentle therapy. You may feel a warm, soothing sensation, but it should never be painful. If it feels too hot, your practitioner will adjust the treatment.

What are the different types of moxibustion?

Direct Moxa: Small cones of moxa are placed on the skin and removed before burning completely.

Indirect Moxa: A practitioner holds a burning moxa stick near the skin or attaches moxa to acupuncture needles.

Moxa on Salt/Ginger/Garlic: Moxa is burned on a medium (such as salt, ginger, or garlic) to enhance therapeutic effects.

Is moxibustion safe?

Yes, when performed by a trained practitioner, moxa is safe. However, it should be avoided in people with certain conditions (high fever, active infections, or specific blood pressure readings).

Can I do moxibustion at home?

Yes, with proper guidance from a practitioner. Some patients use moxa sticks or smokeless moxa at home for specific conditions, such as breech baby positioning or digestive support.

Does moxibustion have any side effects?

Most people experience no side effects, but possible reactions include temporary redness, warmth, or mild irritation. Rarely, improper use may cause burns. Always follow professional guidance.

What does moxa smell like?

Moxa has a strong, earthy, herbal scent similar to incense. Some clinics offer smokeless moxa as an alternative.

How long does a moxibustion session last?

A typical session lasts 30 minutes. It is often combined with acupuncture, as long as blood pressure is stable.

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Fire Cupping

What is fire cupping?

Fire cupping is a traditional therapy that involves placing glass cups on the skin using heat to create suction. This promotes circulation, relieves muscle tension, and supports overall wellness.

How does fire cupping work?

A practitioner briefly heats the inside of a glass cup with a flame to create a vacuum, then quickly places it on the skin. The suction draws blood to the area, promoting healing and relaxation.

What are the benefits of fire cupping?

Fire cupping may help with:

• Muscle tension and pain relief
• Improved circulation
• Detoxification
• Stress and anxiety reduction
• Faster recovery from injuries

Is fire cupping the same as dry cupping?

Yes, fire cupping is a type of dry cupping, meaning no blood is drawn. Wet cupping, on the other hand, involves small incisions to release blood. Only dry cupping is performed here at Colorado Acupuncture and Wellness.

Does fire cupping hurt?

Most people find it relaxing. You may feel a pulling or tight sensation but not pain. If it's uncomfortable, your practitioner can adjust the suction.

Are there any side effects?

The most common side effect is temporary bruising or circular marks, which fade within a few days to a week. Some people experience mild soreness or redness in the treated area.

Can fire cupping cause burns?

When performed by a trained practitioner, fire cupping is safe and does not cause burns. The flame never touches your skin—it’s only used to create suction in the cups.

Who should avoid fire cupping?

Fire cupping is not recommended for people who:

• Have thin or fragile skin
• Have bleeding disorders or take blood thinners
• Are pregnant (on the abdomen or lower back)
• Have high fever or skin infections in the treatment area

How should I prepare for a fire cupping treatment?

• Stay hydrated before and after your appointment
• Eat a light meal beforehand (but avoid heavy or greasy foods)
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing
• Let us know about any medical conditions or sensitivities

What should I do after cupping?

• Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins
• Avoid cold showers or direct exposure to cold air for a few hours
• Take it easy—some people feel deeply relaxed or even a little sleepy after a session

How long do the marks last?

Cupping marks typically fade within a few days to a week, depending on your circulation and how deep the suction was. They don’t hurt and are simply an indication of increased blood flow and healing.

How often should I get fire cupping?

That depends on your needs! Some clients book weekly sessions to help with chronic pain or stress, while others come once a month for maintenance. We’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your body and lifestyle.

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Gua Sha

What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that involves scraping a smooth-edged tool across the skin to promote circulation, release muscle tension, and encourage lymphatic drainage.

How does Gua Sha work?

The scraping motion stimulates circulation, breaks up stagnation, and promotes the flow of Qi (energy) and blood, helping to reduce inflammation and support the body's natural healing process.

What are the benefits of Gua Sha?

• Relieves muscle tension and pain
• Improves circulation
• Reduces puffiness and inflammation
• Supports lymphatic drainage
• Enhances skin elasticity and glow (for facial Gua Sha)
• Helps alleviate headaches, TMJ, and sinus congestion

Is Gua Sha safe?

Yes, when done correctly, Gua Sha is safe. However, it can cause temporary redness or bruising, which is a natural response as stagnant blood is brought to the surface.

Does Gua Sha hurt?

Gua Sha should not be painful. Mild discomfort or tenderness may occur, especially in areas with tension or stagnation, but the pressure can be adjusted to ensure comfort.

Can Gua Sha be used on the face?

Yes! Facial Gua Sha is a gentler technique that helps sculpt and lift the face, improve circulation, reduce puffiness, and promote glowing skin.

How often should I do Gua Sha?

For facial Gua Sha, 3–5 times per week is recommended. For body Gua Sha, 1–3 times per week, depending on your needs and how your body responds.

Can Gua Sha help with headaches or migraines?

Yes, applying gentle Gua Sha to the neck, shoulders, and forehead can help relieve tension headaches and migraines by improving circulation and reducing muscle tightness.

Can Gua Sha help with TMJ or jaw tension?

Yes, facial Gua Sha can help relax the jaw muscles, improve circulation, and relieve TMJ-related pain or tightness.

Who should avoid Gua Sha?

• Those with blood clotting disorders or who take blood thinners
• Individuals with recent surgery, open wounds, or skin infections
• Those with very sensitive or fragile skin

What tools should I use for Gua Sha?

Gua Sha tools are typically made of jade, rose quartz, or stainless steel. The original tool that was used, was a Chinese soup spoon.

Do I need to use oil for Gua Sha?

Yes, applying a facial oil or body massage oil helps the tool glide smoothly over the skin and prevents irritation.

How do I clean my Gua Sha tool?

Wash it with warm water and mild soap after each use, then dry thoroughly. Avoid using harsh chemicals.

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Microneedling

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses fine needles to create tiny micro-injuries in the skin. The tiny punctures created by the needles trigger the body's natural healing response, increasing collagen and elastin production, which helps improve skin texture, reduce scars, and promote a youthful appearance.

What skin concerns can microneedling help with?

Microneedling is commonly used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, stretch marks, and overall skin texture.

Is microneedling safe?

Yes, when performed by a trained professional, microneedling is safe. However, proper aftercare is essential to prevent infections and irritation.

Does microneedling hurt?

Most patients describe it as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful.

What can I expect during a microneedling treatment?

Microneedling treatments here at Colorado Acupuncture and Wellness are very unique. Even if you’ve experienced microneedling from another provider, you might appreciate the more holistic experience offered here. There is a thorough acupuncture and facial consultation that will help determine the best TCM serums and course of treatment. This consultation will carry over to full body acupuncture treatments. After the consultation, pictures of the area(s) that will be treated will be taken to track progress over time, and then the microneedling treatment will be performed. After the microneedling, hyaluronic acid and a custom TCM topical serum blend will be applied to the area. You will leave with the remainder of your custom serum to continue applying between treatments.

How long does a microneedling session take?

A typical session lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the treatment area.

How many sessions do I need?

The number of sessions depends on your skin concerns. For best results, most people need 3-6 treatments spaced about 4-6 weeks apart.

Can microneedling be combined with other treatments?

Yes! Microneedling is often combined with serums or LED light therapy for enhanced results.

What should I do before my microneedling appointment?

Avoid sun exposure, retinol, and harsh skincare products for a few days before treatment. Do not shave the area a few days before microneedling. It is recommended to wait at least two weeks after a Botox injection or at least four weeks after a filler before getting microneedling. The use of chemical peels, chemical depilatories or waxing must not be used two weeks prior to microneedling. Accutane must be stopped 6 months prior to microneedling.

What should I expect after the procedure?

Your skin may appear red and slightly swollen for 24-48 hours, similar to a mild sunburn. Some mild peeling or flaking may occur within a few days.

How long does it take to see results?

Initial improvements may be noticeable within a week, but the best results appear after multiple treatments as collagen production increases over time.

What aftercare is required?

• Avoid direct sun exposure and use SPF 30+ daily.
• Do not apply makeup for 24 hours.
• Keep skin hydrated and avoid harsh products for a few days.

Who should avoid microneedling?

Microneedling is not recommended for people with active acne, open wounds, infections, keloid scarring, or certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, or pregnant women.

Are there any side effects?

Common side effects include redness, swelling, mild peeling, and sensitivity. Serious complications are rare when performed by a qualified professional.

Can microneedling be done at home?

While at-home derma rollers exist, professional microneedling devices penetrate deeper and provide more effective, safer results. DIY microneedling carries a higher risk of infection and improper technique.

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Bach® Flower Remedies

What are Bach® Flower Remedies?

Bach® Flower Remedies are a natural system of 38 flower essences developed by Dr. Edward Bach to help balance emotions and support mental well-being. They help with stress, anxiety, overwhelm, sadness, and other emotional challenges, making them a perfect complement to acupuncture and holistic healing.

How do Bach® Flower Remedies work?

They work by gently restoring emotional balance, addressing negative emotions like fear, anxiety, sadness, or uncertainty, and promoting a sense of inner peace.

Are Bach® Flower Remedies the same as essential oils or herbal remedies?

No, they are different. Unlike essential oils, they are not aromatic and do not work on a physical level like herbal remedies. Instead, they focus on an emotional and energetic healing.

Are Bach® Flower Remedies safe?

Yes, they are natural, non-toxic, and safe for all ages, including children, pregnant women, pets, and even plants. They do not interact with medications and there are no side effects.

How do I choose the right Bach® Flower Remedy?

Choose a remedy based on your current emotional state. There are 38 different remedies, each targeting a specific emotion. Some people use a single remedy, while others combine several.

How do I take Bach® Flower Remedies?

You can take them directly by placing 2-4 drops under your tongue or alternatively, you can mix them in a glass of water and take them throughout the day.

How long does it take to see results?

It varies. Some people feel a shift within minutes to a few hours, while others may take days or weeks. Consistency is key.

Can I mix multiple remedies together?

Yes, you can mix up to 7 different remedies in a single treatment bottle to address multiple emotions.

Do Bach® Flower Remedies have side effects?

No, they do not cause side effects, dependency, or withdrawal symptoms.

Can I use Bach® Flower Remedies alongside other treatments?

Yes, they can be used alongside conventional medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, and other holistic therapies.

What is Rescue Remedy?

Rescue Remedy is a blend of five Bach® flowers (Rock Rose, Impatiens, Clematis, Star of Bethlehem, and Cherry Plum) designed for immediate stress relief and emotional support during crises or emergencies.

Are Bach® Flower Remedies effective for anxiety and stress?

Yes, they are commonly used to help manage anxiety, stress, fear, and worry by promoting emotional balance.

Can children and pets use Bach® Flower Remedies?

Yes! They are safe for both, and many pet owners use them to calm anxious or stressed animals.

Are Bach® Flower Remedies scientifically proven?

While scientific studies on their effectiveness are limited, many people report positive experiences. They are often considered an energetic or vibrational healing approach.

Where can I buy Bach® Flower Remedies?

They are available at health stores, online retailers, and at Bach® Flower Remedy practitioner offices.

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Shonishin

What is Shonishin?

Shonishin is a gentle form of Japanese pediatric acupuncture designed for infants and children. Unlike traditional acupuncture, it does not use needles. Instead, specialized tools are used to gently tap, brush, or stroke the skin to stimulate energy flow and promote healing.

Is Shonishin safe for my child?

Yes! Shonishin is a safe, non-invasive technique tailored specifically for children. The treatment is gentle and calming, making it suitable even for newborns. This treatment can also be used on adults who are afraid of needles.

What health issues can Shonishin help with?

Shonishin can be beneficial for:

• Digestive issues (constipation, reflux, colic)
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety and emotional regulation
• PMS or hormonal imbalances (for older children/teens)
• Teething discomfort
• Allergies and immune support
• Focus and behavioral challenges

How does Shonishin work?

Shonishin stimulates acupuncture points to balance the body’s energy, support the nervous system, and enhance natural healing. Regular treatments can help improve overall well-being and prevent recurring health issues.

Does Shonishin hurt?

No, Shonishin is painless. The techniques used are gentle and soothing. Many children find the treatment relaxing, and parents often notice improvements in sleep and mood.

How many sessions will my child need?

The number of sessions varies based on the child’s condition and response to treatment. Your practitioner will develop a customized plan based on your child’s needs.

Can Shonishin be used alongside other treatments?

Yes! Shonishin can complement other healthcare approaches, including conventional medicine, chiropractic care, and naturopathy.

Is Shonishin covered by insurance?

Some insurance plans may cover pediatric acupuncture. Check with your provider to confirm coverage. We do not accept insurance, but we can provide a superbill for reimbursement.