Frequently Asked Questions

Is acupuncture the same thing as ‘dry needling’?

The short answer is no. Acupuncture practice includes many different needling techniques and a variety of these may be required to achieve the best results. Dry needling is just one of these methods. As a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.), I’m qualified in numerous techniques, including dry needling. Seeing a licensed acupuncturist ensures that more than just one treatment technique and method of healing is available to you.

How safe is acupuncture and ‘dry needling’?

Acupuncture is a very safe when practiced by a licensed acupuncturist. Acupuncture needles are solid, sterile, disposable and hair-thin.

Only Licensed Acupuncturists (L.Ac’s) who are certified by the National Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) are Diplomates and have received at least 2000-3000 hours of training. In our hands, acupuncture is considered very safe. However, in CT and other States, some Western medical practitioners such as PT's and DC's can also offer ‘dry needling’ after taking a course for 50 hours or less. But research shows that practitioners who have taken short courses have more than double the rate of adverse events, such as pneumothorax (punctured lungs), as compared to fully licensed acupuncturists (L.Ac.)

Why see a licensed acupuncturist?

Keep in mind that acupuncture is a complex form of healing—it’s more than just the insertion of needles into tender points. As an acupuncturist versed in many styles, I am trained and licensed to comprehensively assess patients, make a diagnosis, and then treat accordingly using appropriate needling methods. With my extensive training, I am able to approach your health concern with a traditional understanding of the body from a Chinese medicine perspective in conjunction with modern innovations from current research. In addition to methods such as needling, cupping and moxibustion, I might use exercise therapy, massage techniques such as shiatsu and electro-stimulation of acu-points. The comprehensive approach at Kara Acupuncture & Wellness results in a holistic diagnosis and successful treatment plan.

How many Treatments will I need?

This varies greatly for each person. Some people get immediate relief from one or two treatments, while others with more complicated issues that may be chronic take much longer. This can be discussed at your first treatment. I always tell people to give it at least 6 treatments and then we'll reassess.

Is Acupuncture covered by Insurance?

I'm out of network with United and Aetna. This means if you have out of network coverage and have met that deductible, we can submit with your co-insurance. Please contact us for more information. For all others I can give you a receipt to submit to your insurance directly. Many insurances will cover out of network so it's best to check with your insurance company first.

How long is a session?

On your first session I spend at lease an hour getting to know your health history and doing a full postural and hands-on assessment as well as treatment. Follow ups are an hour long. I will often treat both front and back in one session. At Kara Acupuncture & Wellness, we focus not only on your symptoms, but get to the root of the problem. We take the time to carefully listen to our patients.

For more information, see Laura featured in Healthy Life Connecticut Magazine.