What does the scientific research on Acupuncture look like? 
For recent clinical studies, please visit the National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine website: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/acupuncture/

What are the requirements to become licensed Acupuncturist? 
Acupuncture licensing is regulated by the New York State Office of the Professions.  Eligibility requirements include successful completion of bachelor's degree and an accredited three-year masters program which entails nearly 2,000 hours of diagnostic and theoretical study and 660 hours of clinical training.   Upon matriculation the completion of a series of National Board Exams are administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).  For a list of accredited schools of Chinese Medicine, visit the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) at http://www.acaom.org 

Is Acupuncture covered by insurance?  
Check with your healthcare provider to find out if your plan includes Acupuncture.  If Acupuncture is covered by your provider, it will most likely be for the treatment of pain.

Can I use my Flexible Spending Account?  
Yes.  If your employer offers a flex spending account (FSA) you can also take advantage of that option to pay for your treatments on a pre-tax basis.  

What do the needles look like?  Are they safe?  
Acupuncture needles bear little resemblance to the needles you see at your allopathic doctor's office. Acupuncture needles are slender, solid, and, flexible.  The needles are high-quality, disposable, and, of course, single-use. 

Does Acupuncture hurt?
The sensations associated with acupuncture are fleeting, and are often described as a brief heavy or dull ache, or tingling sensation rather than of pain.  Although sensations vary from point to point, they are usually accompanied by a feeling deep relaxation.  Taking a larger view, these physical sensations are very brief and pale next to the long-term benefits that patients report from treatment.