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Best Acupuncturists
2022

The Best Acupuncturists
Here Are The Top Acupuncturists
Acupuncture Bodywork PC

Acupuncture Bodywork PC

Acupuncture Bodywork PC is a New York City clinic that has provided holistic health care since 2006. The clinic specializes in sports and orthopedic conditions and pain management. Services offered include traditional Chinese acupuncture, Japanese-style acupuncture, and the acupuncture physical medicine technique. Spa treatments such as cupping and aromatherapy are also available. Acupuncture Bodywork PC is run by Maureen Tetelman, who is an acupuncturist licensed in New York and Vermont, nationally board-certified, and a certified massage therapist.

New York, NY 10018

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Evolve Health NYC

Evolve Health NYC

Evolve Health NYC is a New York wellness clinic that was founded in 2015. The clinic was founded by Nini Mai who has been in private practice since 2009 in Los Angeles and New York City. The clinic offers a wide range of services such as acupuncture, herbal therapy, Tui Na and Zheng Gu, Qigong, Eastern nutrition, chiropractic services, mental health services, nutritional counseling, post-graduate education, and complex case review.

New York, NY 10002

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NYC Points Acupuncture PC

NYC Points Acupuncture PC

NYC Points Acupuncture PC is a New York wellness clinic that has a small and highly experienced staff of licensed acupuncturists. The clinic offers a wide range of acupuncture services for treating conditions such as infertility, gastrointestinal diseases, musculoskeletal issues, stress, post stroke rehabilitation, and allergies. The clinic staff has decades of experience and thousands of hours of training, as well as national certifications and clinical internship experience.

New York, NY 10022

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Remedy NYC

Remedy NYC

Remedy NYC is a New York clinic that is operated by a staff of practitioners that all hold Masters of Science degrees in Traditional Oriental Medicine. The clinic specializes in Traditional Chinese Medicine services including acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and herbal medicine, as well as acupressure, nutritional services, massage therapy, Tai Chi, and Qigong.

New York, NY 10001

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L.E.S. Acupuncture and Bodywork

L.E.S. Acupuncture and Bodywork

L.E.S. Acupuncture and Bodywork is a New York wellness clinic that is operated by licensed acupuncturist and massage therapist Ansgar Lee. Ansgar offers a wide range of therapeutic services such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping, and massage therapy for acute and chronic pain, women’s and men’s health, respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal conditions, psychosomatic conditions, and skin dermatitis. His clients speak highly of his knowledge of the industry, and caring and comforting nature, as well as his clean and professional clinic.

New York, NY 10001

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Fifth Avenue Acupuncture & Herbs Center

Fifth Avenue Acupuncture & Herbs Center

Fifth Avenue Acupuncture & Herbs Center is a New York wellness clinic that is directed by Dr. Feng Liang. Dr. Liang has been practicing in New York City since 1995 when she founded Fifth Avenue Acupuncture & Herbs Center. She combines acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and diet and lifestyle modification recommendations. Dr. Liang offers a wide range of acupuncture and herbal services for treating a large number of conditions.

New York, NY 10016

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Adachi Acupuncture & Herb Clinic

Adachi Acupuncture & Herb Clinic

Adachi Acupuncture & Herb Clinic is a chronic pain-focused acupuncture facility located in Flatiron District, New York. The lead practitioner of the clinic, Masayuki "Masa" Adachi, is a NY State-Licensed Acupuncturist and a board-certified herbalist. Masa combined the world-renowned Dr. Tan’s Balance Method and Japanese Meridian Palpation Technique to establish his own acupuncture method specializing in chronic pain. Using his method, Masa identifies the root problem and then treat the symptoms. His clients include Prime Minister, NFL, MLB players, Hollywood stars, Broadway actors & actresses, and many other celebrities.

New York, NY 10010

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AB Acupuncture

AB Acupuncture

AB Acupuncture of New York City has been providing pain relief and holistic care to patients since 2015. Located on the upper east side, Annalisa Brown, L.AC, DIPL. AC provides services that relieve symptoms of conditions such as back pain, migraines, anxiety, immune regulation, Lyme disease, stroke recovery, and fibromyalgia. Teas, Chinese herbal formulas, foot soaks, & topical liniments are available for purchase, as well. Annalisa Brown also practices several other modalities, including motor point acupuncture, light therapy for skin care and pain, cupping, & gua sha. Telehealth sessions are also available.

New York, NY 10023

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Acupuncture Remedies

Acupuncture Remedies

Acupuncture Remedies is a New York clinic that was founded by licensed acupuncturist Iris Netzer. Iris has over 15 years of experience practicing acupuncture and holds a Master’s of Science in Oriental Medicine. The clinic offers numerous services including acupuncture, cosmetic acupuncture, and Tui Na massage. Acupuncture Remedies also offers various women’s health services including services for gynecological and reproductive health, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, pregnancy, and postpartum care.

New York, NY 10022

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NYC Acupuncture + Wellness

NYC Acupuncture + Wellness

NYC Acupuncture + Wellness is a team of acupuncturists that combines medical techniques from Japan, Korea, and China. It provides its services to patients in New York City and the surrounding areas. Acupuncture services include treatment of acute or chronic pain, neck pain, headaches, and migraines. The healing environment also offers sports therapy for Muay Thai fighters, polo players, marathon runners, and dancers. Additionally, it provides treatment for autoimmune diseases like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-stroke recovery.

New York, NY 10011

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Expert Answers To Common Questions:

  1. Introduction
  2. How does acupuncture work?
  3. Does Medicare cover acupuncture?
  4. Is acupuncture effective?
  5. Does acupuncture hurt?
  6. How much does acupuncture cost?
  7. Does insurance cover acupuncture?
  8. What should you wear to an acupuncture appointment?
  9. Is acupuncture safe?
  10. What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
  11. What are some conditions that acupuncture can treat?
  12. How long does an acupuncture appointment last?
  13. How many acupuncture appointments will you need to complete a treatment?
  14. What needles are used in acupuncture?
  15. Do acupuncturists need to be licensed to practice acupuncture?
Q: Introduction
A:
Acupuncture is an alternative medicine technique. It involves the strategic placement of small, fine needles puncturing the skin on various areas of the body to relieve pain or treat other medical conditions. The needles are left in place for about 10 minutes to half an hour while the patient relaxes. The selection of the proper acupoints requires skill and knowledge.

The practice of acupuncture originated in Asia many centuries ago. Chinese acupuncture may also involve electrical stimulation or heat application for heightened effect. Some Chinese acupuncturists also slowly spin or twirl the needles after insertion. On the other hand, Japanese acupuncture is less invasive, with shallow needle insertion and no needle manipulation. Korean acupuncture focuses on needle placement only in the feet and hands.  

Though acupuncture was highly controversial in Western medicine for many years, most of the medical community now recognizes its effectiveness for pain management. Only anecdotal evidence exists for treatments beyond pain relief.
Q: How does acupuncture work?
A:
Research hasn’t yet determined exactly how acupuncture works, but there are two main theories. One is that it operates on a neurological level by stimulating muscles, nerves, and connective tissues, triggering natural pain relief effects. Others believe acupuncture balances a person’s energies — chi — creating physical, emotional, and mental harmony, which relieves pain and improves health. 
Q: Does Medicare cover acupuncture?
A:
Medicare Part B covers acupuncture solely to treat low back pain. The condition must have no known cause and have lasted for at least 12 weeks. Only a doctor or properly licensed and trained medical provider may perform the acupuncture. Medicare initially approves up to 12 sessions over 90 days. With demonstrated improvement, up to eight more visits may be allowed.
Q: Is acupuncture effective?
A:
Studies by the National Institute of Health confirm the effectiveness of acupuncture for addiction, nausea, headaches, asthma, some stroke rehabilitation, and pain management for various conditions. The NIH studies support the use of acupuncture alone and combined with traditional treatment methods. Additional research by other scientific and medical organizations demonstrates that acupuncture is typically successful in the treatment of pain.
Q: Does acupuncture hurt?
A:
Acupuncture should not be painful. The unfamiliar sensation may be uncomfortable at first, but that typically goes away after the first session. People with high sensitivity levels or low pain tolerance may experience heightened sensations. However, any discomfort should be minor and brief. Some common feelings at the acupuncture points are warmth, tingling, heaviness, or mild achiness.
Q: How much does acupuncture cost?
A:
Acupuncture prices vary greatly, ranging from $50 to $300 per session. Initial sessions usually cost more than follow-up appointments. Initial sessions on the high end of the pricing scale usually include a consultation and medical exam along with the acupuncture session. Some acupuncturists offer membership price breaks or discounts for prepaid multiple sessions. Shop around before deciding on an acupuncturist.
Q: Does insurance cover acupuncture?
A:
Some health care insurance carriers cover acupuncture for specific medical conditions. But it depends on the location, insurance provider, insurance plan, and reason for the treatments. Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, United Health Care, Health Net, Banner Health, and Humana are examples of some private insurers that may cover acupuncture with various restrictions. Contact your provider to learn more.
Q: What should you wear to an acupuncture appointment?
A:
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to your first acupuncture appointment. Shorts or pants you can pull above your knees are a good idea. Short-sleeve tops are also preferable. Slip-on shoes are helpful. If your treatment involves back or torso needle placement, your acupuncturist likely provides gowns. After your first visit, you have a better idea of suitable clothing.
Q: Is acupuncture safe?
A:
Acupuncture is very safe with a certified, reputable, and capable acupuncturist. When the practitioner follows the law using sterile, disposable, single-use needles, adverse effects are rare. The World Health Organization reported no major side effects and only 671 minor adverse events out of 10,000 treatments. Plus, acupuncture has none of the serious side effects of traditional pain medications. 
Q: What is the difference between dry needling and acupuncture?
A:
Dry needling is also called intramuscular stimulation. The procedure involves the insertion of needles to treat muscular pain. Unlike the ancient practice of acupuncture, dry needling is relatively new. It’s not a well-regulated field either, while acupuncture is. Physical therapists and other providers can perform dry needling with no special training, licensing, or certifications.
Q: What are some conditions that acupuncture can treat?
A:
Acupuncture can help relieve pain caused by many medical conditions. Some examples are migraines, menstrual cramps, back pain, arthritis, sciatica, fibromyalgia, tennis elbow, postsurgical dental pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Many patients also experience improvement from acupuncture treatment for conditions, such as asthma, addiction, ADHD, and TMD. Plus, acupuncture may also help relieve nausea, stress, and anxiety.
Q: How long does an acupuncture appointment last?
A:
Initial acupuncture appointments typically last longer than routine sessions. They may include an interview about your health issues and a medical exam. With the acupuncture session, the entire appointment may take one to two hours. Successive sessions typically last about 30 minutes to an hour. The needles will be in place for only about 10 to 30 minutes.
Q: How many acupuncture appointments will you need to complete a treatment?
A:
It’s best to discuss how many sessions you’ll need with your acupuncturist during your initial consultation. Most patients who seek acupuncture to help with a medical condition and related pain need several sessions. They may start treatment with one to three sessions per week for a few weeks. Once they see improvement, treatments may taper off to in-frequent maintenance sessions.
Q: What needles are used in acupuncture?
A:
Metal filiform needles are the type commonly used for acupuncture today. These sterile, stainless-steel thread-like needles are available in varying diameters and lengths. The typical gauges range from 0.12 mm to 0.35 mm. Japanese acupuncture calls for thinner needles than Chinese methods. Acupuncture needles are designed for one use before disposal. Some acupuncturists use gold or silver needles.
Q: Do acupuncturists need to be licensed to practice acupuncture?
A:
Washington D.C. and 47 states require some type of licensing to perform acupuncture. South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Alabama don’t regulate acupuncturists. Elsewhere, credentialing requirements and standards vary. Most states with acupuncture legal oversight require National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exams or certification in compliance with the Acupuncture Practice Act. California has its own licensing exam.