Common Questions

Just some of the conditions that I have worked with:

• Digestive disorders
• Anxiety / Depression
• Fatigue
• Chronic pain
• Insomnia
• Weak immunity
• PMS
• Menstrual cramps
• Menopausal symptoms
• Allergies
• Addictions
• Stress management
• Fibromyalgia
• Injury recovery and healing
• Infertility

No, acupuncture should not hurt. A momentary prick is often felt around the needle as it is inserted, eventually creating a dull pressure or tingling around the area during the treatment. Most people are amazed by how relaxed they feel during and after the treatment.

As long as it is performed by a licensed acupuncturist,  acupuncture is extremely safe. Acupuncturists are required to use sterile, disposable needles that are discarded after one use.

Yes. Many people report pain relief after one treatment, but for others it may take some time. The first thing you may notice, however, may not be pain relief.  Rather, you might notice  improved sleep or less anxiety, all of which are important to the overall healing process.

On your first visit, we will discuss the treatment plan that is best for you. For more severe conditions, you may be best served by coming between 2-3 times per week, particularly at the outset of treatment. For health maintenance or more mild conditions, once a week is sometimes often enough. Throughout your treatment, Hillary will track different symptoms or concerns, and determine how you respond to acupuncture. Once your symptoms begin shift or subside, she can work on a plan that is either biweekly, monthly, or seasonal.

It is important to remember that acupuncture builds on itself, thus chronic conditions may take time to improve. And the longer you’ve had an illness or condition, (generally) the longer it takes to heal.

Community Acupuncture is a national movement with the goal of increasing access to acupuncture by offering treatments in a comfortable group setting at an affordable rate. It is generally useful for maintenance, stress or general wellness goals.

Private room acupuncture is one-on-one acupuncture suitable for many patients as well as for those patients who prefer to be treated alone. Moxibustion, e-stim, and chinese medical massage are often incorporated. Contact Hillary directly for more information at hillary@stuartacupuncture.com.

Yes, we are happy to treat children of all ages with parental consent.[/accordion] Common Questions About Our Pricing & Scheduling:

Soap Vault is the online  health records system that we use. 

Patients often would like a last minute appointment but find the times they want are already booked. If you skip your visit, forget to show up, or cancel without 24 hours notice, it means another person is likely not getting the treatment they need. Please don’t miss your visit. I require a payment of 75% of the missed visit if you do not give me at least 24 hours notice, and will send an invoice directly to your email. I truly appreciate you respecting this policy–it helps the clinic run smoothly and ensures that everyone can get the treatments they need.

I do not have a receptionist. If you do reach my machine, please leave a message, indicating a few times when you will be available to talk.

As of February, 2020, Hillary does accept most insurance for payment for private acupuncture sessions. Please email or call my office and I will determine whether you are covered under your plan. Email is generally faster and easier for me.

As of February 2020, Hillary accepts most insurance for private acupuncture. Please contact the office to see if your insurance is accepted.

I also accept cash, check (made out to Stuart Acupuncture) or major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express). Payment is due at the time of service. We also accept HSA debit cards as acupuncture is normally considered a deductible medical expense according to HSA Guidelines. Please check with your HSA provider to be sure.

There is plenty of parking for our building at 7000 SE Federal Highway, so you never have to worry about finding a spot.

Please email me if you need to reach me and are getting the machine when you call the office. My email is hillary@stuartacupuncture.com. Please do NOT simply walk in for an appointment.

No, we do not provide primary care medicine. Acupuncture is a wonderful complement to Western medicine, but it is not a substitute for it. If you think you have a serious medical problem (for example a malignant growth, serious infection, or an injury that won’t heal), you need to see a medical doctor. Please do not expect our acupuncturists to diagnose a serious medical condition. We can provide complementary care for conditions which may require a physician’s attention (for example, someone undergoing chemotherapy) but we cannot provide a substitute for a physician’s care in those circumstances.

Ideally, you would wear loose fitting pants or shorts. Your shoes and socks will be removed during group treatment, so no special requirements there. Do NOT wear perfume or scented lotion, out of respect for our patients with sensitivity.

Do not drink alcohol or consume illegal drugs before coming in for treatment. Other than that, just prepare to relax!

Absolutely. Many patients like to bring their own music to listen to while getting treated, especially if they are sensitive to sounds. We play soft music in the treatment room as well, and offer ear plugs and eye pillows for those patients who want a truly immersive experience. If you do bring your own music, please be sure to bring headphones. Video playing, texting, etc is NOT allowed in the office.

I ask my patients to refrain from wearing perfume during treatment. Some patients are very sensitive to smells, and it is important the the community space be an area where all patients can rest comfortably. We use organic, scent-free detergent for all our towels, pillows and sheets as well.

No. Smart devices cannot be used during treatment unless as a listening device with the back light turned off. The light distracts other patients and will detract from your overall experience. Please turn your phone off and place it in the bin on the side of your chair, or leave your phone in your car (not if it’s hot out, though!)