Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin flexible needles into specific points (acupoints) on the body. Acupuncture is one of several treatment techniques that comes from Chinese Medicine. Other treatment modalities and techniques include:
- Tui Na (massage and “bone setting” similar to chiropractic care),
- Gua sha (a manual scraping technique; deeper strokes for musculoskeletal and a lighter technique for facial rejuvenation)
- Cupping (applying a vacuum to the skin to promote healing)
- Moxibustion
- Qi Gong or Tai Qi
- Nutritional guidance
- Lifestyle guidance
During an acupuncture treatment, an acupuncturist is guided by the theory of Chinese Medicine, as well as anatomical considerations for musculoskeletal issues when selecting points for a treatment. Other treatment techniques from Chinese Medicine may be included or recommended as part of a treatment plan. Electroacupuncture (a modern advancement) may also be used. This involves applying gentle electrical stimulation to acupuncture points by connecting a device to acupuncture needles.
Acupuncture at Gotham Integrative Acupuncture and Wellness
We strive to offer the best of Chinese Medicine for modern people. Here is what sets our acupuncture services apart:
Treatment plans
We start with a Complimentary Consultation for all new patients. During this consultation we determine the best treatment plan for you, which may include acupuncture, herbal therapy, or both. This important step is unfortunately left out in the vast majority of Chinese Medicine clinics in the US. One or two treatments is typically not enough to acheive longstanding results and life-changing transformations. By outlining your treatment plan from the start, you will get the most benefit from your Chinese Medicine treatments.
Electroacupuncture
We include electroacupuncture in nearly all acupuncture sessions. Electroacupuncture is a modern, cutting-edge advancement in acupuncture that involves applying gentle electrical stimulation to strategically selected acupuncture points. Electroacupuncture enhances the following effects of acupuncture:
- trigger point release
- muscle function activation
- improved circulation to targeted areas
- nerve repair
- promotes the release of endogenous (made by your body) opioid-like painkillers such as endorphins
- promotes the release of anti-inflammatory agents
- calms the mind and promotes nervous system regulation by engaging the parasympathetic system
Emphasis on Patient Comfort
Patient comfort is a top priority. We ensure that you are
comfortable enough to fall asleep during your acupuncture session. Patients are also given a call button so they can rest easy knowing they can call us back to the room at any time.
Additional included treatment techniques
Our acupuncture treatments include (at no additional cost) the modalities listed below. We only perform these treatment techniques when apropriate and recommended by the acupuncturist.
- Cupping - a techniques that involves applying a special cup with a gentle vacuum to the surface of the body
- Gua Sha - a manual/massage technique that involves scraping to break up adhesions and encourage circulation
- Infared heat - helps to calm the body and relax muscles
- Moxa - burning an herb (mugwort/Ai Ye) on or near the body
What is Acupuncture for?
(What we treat)
Some of the most common conditions we treat in NYC
- Acute and Chronic Pain Conditions (click to see a list of common orthopedic conditions that we treat here).
- Stress and anxiety
- Digestive issues
- Insomnia
- Migraines and chronic headaches
- Long COVID and other post viral syndromes
- Reproductive health including menstrual complaints, fertility, and peri/menopausal complaints
COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION
All new patients begin with a 15 minute in-person Complimentary Consultation. You’ll meet with our lead acupuncturist to review your health history, current symptoms, and goals. From there, we’ll outline a personalized treatment plan and answer any questions you may have. Your treatment plan may include acupuncture and/or herbal therapy.
If it feels like the right fit, you’re welcome to begin treatment that same day—but there’s no pressure or obligation.
TREATMENT
Each session is tailored to your specific presentation, how your body is responding, and anything new that has come up.
Acupuncture treatment focuses on reducing pain, releasing tension, and supporting your body’s natural healing processes. Many patients begin to notice shifts early on, which we continue to build on over time. We utilize electroacupuncture which enhances the effect of acupuncture to trigger the body to release powerful endogenous (made by your body) pain-killers and anti-inflammatory agents. Other modalities will be included with acupuncture treatment as apropriate including cupping, gua sha, infrared heat, nutritional guideance and lifestyle guidance. Chinese herbal therapy is a separate service that may also be recommended.
REASSESSMENT
As your symptoms improve, we periodically reassess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. This ensures care stays aligned with how your body is changing—not just where you started.
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GRADUATION AND MAINTENANCE
Once your pain has significantly improved or resolved, treatment transitions to a maintenance approach.
Some patients choose occasional sessions to prevent flare-ups, manage stress, or support overall well-being—so results are not only achieved, but sustained.
FAQs
Have more questions? Schedule a Consultation to find out if we can help you.
