Those of us who have grown up being treated by Western medicine are often unfamiliar with the many tried-and-true methods of holistic Eastern medicine.
While you may have heard many conflicting reports about acupuncture, what do you really know about this ancient practice?
Acupuncture and its benefits have been around for thousands of years, first used in China as a healing method.
It’s part of a system that aims to treat patients by seeking out the root cause of your pain or discomfort and works to prevent illness in the first place, as opposed to Western medicine which is traditionally more concerned with treating the symptoms rather than the actual disease.
Sometimes, both Western and Eastern medicinal methods can be combined for an even more effective treatment plan. In fact, they are often used in tandem to help patients recover and prevent future issues.
So, now that you have a basic idea of what acupuncture is, let’s take a sneak peek at what you need to know about acupuncture pricing and how to decide whether this treatment is the right decision for you and your wallet.
The Costs & Price of Acupuncture
According to National studies and observations, an acupuncture session costs between $70 - $150.
The initial consultation fee is typically separate and can range from $100 - $300.
Subsequent sessions cost, on average, between $50 - $90 per session, depending on where you live and the expertise of your practitioner.
| Session | National Price Average |
| Acupuncture Session | $75 |
| Initial Consultation/Assessment | $100 |
| Follow-Up Sessions |
$70
|
Price is usually heavily dependent upon your location. Acupuncture in New York City, Los Angeles, or other large cities is often much more expensive than acupuncture in less populated or rural areas.
Chronic back pain is the most common reason people see an acupuncturist for multiple sessions. The price for specific ailments can sometimes depend on how severe your condition is and how the practitioner decides to make your treatment plan.
Acupuncture Pricing at WTHN
At WTHN, we offer very affordable prices for acupuncture. For a one-time, 45-minute session, you can get all of the benefits of our licensed experts for only $85; $65 if you’re a first-timer.
It provides incredible relief for anyone, anytime.
With a WTHN membership, you can get multiple monthly sessions and complimentary cupping and ear seeding, starting at just $85.
WTHN also has add-ons that can be selected from the menu when designing your ideal session for reasonable prices.
Compared to the national acupuncture costs, our pricing is considered reasonable.
If you’re ready to start your journey towards relief and relaxation, WTHN has custom acupuncture treatments that will be specifically personalized, with reasonable pricing, for you..
What is Qi?
To understand how acupuncture works, it’s best to start with what Qi is and how it affects your body.
Qi is an energy that flows through the body, like a spirit or soul. It is supposed to flow freely, but there are meridians or energy channels where Qi can get stuck or have its flow disrupted.
Traditionally, those weak flows and disruptions cause illnesses and other physical problems.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture works by inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body.
These needles help redistribute the flow of Qi or unblock its path. This removes the obstructions and imbalances in your Qi that are causing your symptoms.
The needles are inserted into areas that have been shown to stimulate the nerves, muscles, and connective tissue.
Some people use acupuncture to treat pain because this ancient practice is also thought to boost endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Treatment
First, an acupuncturist evaluates your health and discusses just what kind of ailments you’re looking to treat.
Next, your acupuncturist will evaluate their findings, your medical history, and any current symptoms to create a thorough and effective treatment plan.
The practice of acupuncture is used to balance your Qi or life energy.
On average, an acupuncture treatment can last between 30 to 90 minutes per session.
During the treatment session, usually, the needles will be left in for 10 - 30 minutes, giving you and your body time to relax and let your Qi become unblocked.
What Does Acupuncture Treat?
Acupuncture can treat various issues, illnesses, and conditions or can be used to feel freer and more relaxed, even when you’re not sick or sore.
One study even found that acupuncture can be helpful when used in conjunction with prescription treatments for treating anxiety and depression.
However, despite its excellent benefits, you should always talk to your doctor about adding holistic treatment methods in addition to your regular regimen.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
You’re probably thinking: they’re going to insert a bunch of needles into my skin? I’m not a pin cushion! But don’t worry, this is a common misconception.
Luckily, for most people, there is little to no pain because of how thin the needles are.
Acupuncture needles also have a rounded edge to prevent excessive skin cutting.
Many people avoid acupuncture because they’re worried about the pain and how long the needles are, but trust us; they’re so thin that you will hardly feel them.
Acupuncture isn’t meant to hurt, and when performed by an experienced professional, it shouldn’t.
However, you may feel some particular sensations during the session.
Most people don’t even feel the initial insertion or removal of the needles.
However, some people experience a heavy, throbbing, or twitching sensation because of how the needles stimulate their nerves.
How you feel depends on your level of pain tolerance and general sensitivity.
It may also depend on where the acupuncturist inserts the needles since some areas of the body are more sensitive than others.
The Verdict
Only you know if acupuncture is right for you and your journey towards healing, relaxation, and peace.
If acupuncture seems like an avenue you’d like to explore, WTHN has friendly, professional practitioners who are ready to offer acupunctural services for affordable prices, so you can give it a try without having to worry about breaking the bank.