Frequently Asked Questions

At Five Points Acupuncture & Herbal Solutions, we understand that trying acupuncture or herbal medicine for the first time can bring a lot of questions. Below you’ll find clear, honest answers about what to expect, how treatments work, and how to get started.

1. What is acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture is a proven medical therapy used for thousands of years — and validated today by modern research.
By placing ultra-fine sterile needles at specific points on the body, acupuncture helps restore proper communication between your brain, nervous system, and internal organs.

In modern terms: acupuncture improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and stimulates your body’s own healing and pain-relief mechanisms — without drugs or surgery.

2. Does acupuncture hurt?

Not at all. Most patients describe acupuncture as deeply relaxing.
The needles are thinner than a human hair. You might feel a quick tap, mild tingling, or warmth, followed by a pleasant sense of calm.
Many people fall asleep during their treatment!

3. Is acupuncture safe?

Yes. Our practitioners are licensed by the Massachusetts Board of Medicine and use only sterile, single-use, disposable needles.
Side effects are rare and minor — occasionally a small bruise or temporary soreness at the insertion site.

4. What conditions can acupuncture help with?

We treat a wide range of conditions, including:

Pain & Injury:
Back, neck, shoulder, knee, arthritis, sciatica, migraines

Women’s Health & Fertility:
Irregular cycles, PCOS, PMS, menopause, pregnancy & IVF support

Digestive & Metabolic:
IBS, bloating, reflux, fatigue, blood sugar imbalances

Mental & Emotional Health:
Anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia, PTSD

Other Common Concerns:
Headaches, allergies, long-COVID symptoms, immune weakness, post-surgery recovery

If you’re unsure whether acupuncture can help your condition, call us — we’ll review your case personally and let you know what’s possible.

5. What happens during my first visit?

Your first visit is a comprehensive consultation and treatment.
We’ll spend about 45 minutes learning about your health history, symptoms, and goals.
Then we’ll create a personalized treatment plan and begin your first acupuncture session right away.

Follow-up visits are typically 15–30 minutes, depending on your needs.

6. Do you also offer Chinese herbal medicine?

Yes! Herbal medicine is one of our specialties.
We use customized formulas tailored to your specific diagnosis — not “one-size-fits-all” products.
All herbs are sourced from reputable, GMP-certified suppliers, tested for safety, purity, and heavy metals.

We often combine herbs with acupuncture for faster, longer-lasting results.

7. Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we work with many major insurance providers.
Coverage varies depending on your plan, so we’re happy to verify your benefits before your first visit.
If your plan doesn’t cover acupuncture, we offer affordable self-pay packages and Health Savings Account (HSA) payments.

👉 To verify your insurance, call (781) 944-3000 or use our contact form.

8. How should I prepare for my appointment?

Before treatment:

  • Eat a light meal (avoid coming on an empty stomach)

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing

  • Avoid strenuous exercise or alcohol immediately before your session

After treatment:

  • Drink plenty of water

  • Rest and avoid overexertion for a few hours

  • You may feel calm, slightly tired, or “floaty” — this is normal

  • Follow any herbal or lifestyle recommendations given

9. How quickly will I notice results?

Most patients notice improvement after their first few sessions — especially in pain, stress levels, and sleep.
For deeper, chronic issues, healing builds over time as your body rebalances.
Our goal is not just symptom relief, but lasting, systemic change.

10. How do I book an appointment or free consultation?

You can schedule in three easy ways:

Still have questions?

We’d love to help. Call or message us anytime — we’re happy to answer your questions and help you decide if acupuncture or herbal medicine is right for you.
Contact us here →