Frequently Asked Questions

During the first treatment, Dr. Santoro will take a complete health history and analyze symptoms. Dr. Santoro will also complete some diagnostics and then give an acupuncture treatment. The initial treatment will last 1.5 hours, all subsequent treatments are 1 hour. 

Acupuncture treatments are not painful. Acupuncture is performed with hair-thin needles that do not resemble the pain felt from a hypodermic needle. Patients often fall asleep and are in deep relaxation on the table. 

Everything in the body is connected. When a needle is placed it creates a micro-abrasion in the tissue. This causes the brain to stimulate the immune system to create healing in that area. 

With cupping and gua sha treatment, there will typically be redness and petichiae (red/purple spots on the skin).  This is not a rash, it is not necessary to apply cream or healing ointment. This is a normal response to the treatment and will help promote healing. it will go away after a week, most cases are clear within a couple of days.  

In the hands of a licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture is very safe and effective. The only side effect that could arise is a slight bruise occasionally.  

Needles are placed at specific acupuncture points on the body. Depending on the specific condition, the needles are commonly  placed at or below the elbows, and at or below the knees. Other common areas are on the back, abdomen and ears.