# Acupuncture FAQ NYC

> New to acupuncture? Find answers to common questions about what to expect, how it works, pricing, and booking at Senuri in New York City.

[Initial Consultation A full intake and your first treatment, built around what we find.](https://senuriacupuncture.com/treatments/#treatments) [Follow-Up Acupuncture Each session builds on the last, adjusted to how your body responds.](https://senuriacupuncture.com/treatments/#treatments) [Facial Acupuncture Skin health treated from the inside out — face and body together.](https://senuriacupuncture.com/treatments/#treatments) [Cupping Therapy Gentle suction to release tension held deep in the muscular layers.](https://senuriacupuncture.com/treatments/#treatments)
[View all treatments](https://senuriacupuncture.com/treatments/#treatments)

FAQ
# Questions, *answered.*

## About *acupuncture.*

How does acupuncture work? Acupuncture works through several interconnected mechanisms. From a Western lens, it stimulates the nervous system, promotes circulation to targeted areas, regulates the inflammatory response, and influences the body's hormonal signaling pathways.
From an Eastern lens, acupuncture works with the flow and function of qi, the body's vital force. Where there's stagnation, it helps release it. Where the body is depleted, it helps rebuild. Where systems have stopped communicating, it helps them reconnect.
Over time, this steady work helps recalibrate how the body functions, creating real, lasting change. It's a system of medicine refined over thousands of years, and at its heart is a simple aim: to restore the body's own balance. At Senuri, both frameworks inform how we understand and treat the body.

Does acupuncture hurt? Most patients feel very little upon needle insertion. The needles used at Senuri are extremely fine, significantly thinner than a hypodermic needle. You may feel a mild sensation of pressure, warmth, or a brief dull ache at certain points, which typically resolves within seconds.
Most patients feel deeply relaxed after treatment. Some notice mild soreness or fatigue in the 24 to 48 hours following a session, a normal part of the body's response as it recalibrates. We'll walk you through what to expect at your first visit.

Is acupuncture evidence-based? Yes. There is substantial and growing clinical research supporting acupuncture for pain management, anxiety, hormonal health, fertility, sleep, and digestive function, among other conditions. We're happy to point you toward specific research relevant to your condition.

Is acupuncture safe? Yes. When performed by a licensed practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture has an excellent safety record. Senuri is a fully licensed acupuncture practice in New York State. Serious complications are rare, and we take the time to understand your full health history so that treatment is always safe and appropriate for you.

Can I get acupuncture if I'm on medication? In most cases, yes. Acupuncture is generally safe alongside conventional medications and is often used as a complementary approach to existing medical care. We review all medications and supplements at your initial consultation and adapt treatment accordingly. We always work in coordination with your existing medical team.

How soon will I see results? Acupuncture is cumulative: results build over time and vary from person to person. Some patients notice shifts within the first few sessions. Others, with more complex or longstanding conditions, follow a longer timeline. At your initial consultation, we'll give you a realistic sense of what to expect, shaped around you and your goals.

What conditions does acupuncture treat? At Senuri, we work across a wide range of conditions. We support general wellbeing, stress and nervous system regulation, sleep and energy, digestive health, and the full landscape of women's and hormonal health, including menstrual health, PCOS, endometriosis, perimenopause, fertility, and postpartum care. We also treat chronic pain, headaches, and physical recovery, along with skin health, immune support, and seasonal allergies.
This is far from a complete list. Acupuncture can support many concerns beyond these, so if you don't see yours here, reach out and we'll talk it through.

## Facial *acupuncture.*

What is facial acupuncture? Facial acupuncture is a specialized treatment that supports skin health by treating the face and the body together. Needles are placed on both, targeting the hormonal, circulatory, and digestive imbalances that shape how skin looks and functions. LED light therapy is part of every session, with facial cupping and gua sha included when appropriate. It's as much an internal treatment as an aesthetic one.

Is facial acupuncture right for me? Facial acupuncture is suitable for most patients, but there are some situations where we recommend waiting, or where it may not be appropriate.
Please reach out before booking if any of the following apply:

- You've had Botox or fillers recently
- You've had recent facial surgery and haven't yet fully healed
- You're pregnant (facial acupuncture is not recommended during pregnancy)
- You have an active skin infection, cold sore, or open wound in the treatment area
- You have an active inflammatory flare affecting the face, such as an eczema or psoriasis flare
- You have a history of keloid scarring
- You have received radiation to the face
If you're unsure whether facial acupuncture is right for you, please reach out before booking. We're happy to discuss your specific situation.
[Get in touch](https://senuriacupuncture.com/contact/)

## Additional *modalities.*

What is moxibustion? Moxibustion involves burning dried mugwort, known as moxa, near or on specific acupuncture points to warm the area and stimulate the flow of qi. It's particularly beneficial for conditions involving cold, deficiency, or stagnation, including certain menstrual conditions, digestive complaints, and immune support. At Senuri, moxibustion is incorporated into treatment where clinically appropriate.

What is gua sha? Gua sha uses a smooth-edged tool to apply gentle pressure along the skin, releasing tension in the soft tissue, improving circulation, and supporting lymphatic drainage. It's particularly effective for neck and shoulder tension, facial puffiness, and areas of chronic tension. At Senuri, gua sha is incorporated into treatment sessions where clinically appropriate.

What is cupping? Cupping uses smooth cups placed on the skin to create gentle suction, lifting the tissue rather than compressing it. This increases local circulation, releases muscular tension, and supports the body's natural recovery process.
At Senuri, standalone cupping is available for physical recovery, muscle tension, and performance support. A standalone session allows for more comprehensive work than the cupping incorporated within an acupuncture treatment, using more cups, moving-cupping techniques, and longer, focused attention on the affected areas. Cupping may also be incorporated within your acupuncture session when clinically helpful.

Will cupping or gua sha leave marks? Usually, and always temporarily. The marks come from drawing stagnant blood and fluid up toward the surface, which helps release tension, improve circulation, and support the body's natural recovery.
Cupping leaves circular marks, ranging from light pink to deep red depending on the tension and circulation in the area. Gua sha can bring up redness or light speckling along the treated areas. Neither are bruises in the usual sense; they're not tender or painful, and they typically fade within a few days.

## Your *first visit.*

What should I expect at my first appointment? Your initial consultation is 90 minutes. We begin with a thorough intake, reviewing your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. From there, we move directly into your first acupuncture treatment. You'll leave with a clear treatment plan and a sense of what to expect in the sessions ahead.

How should I prepare? Eat a light meal or snack about two hours before your appointment. Stay well hydrated throughout the day. Avoid caffeine in the two hours beforehand. And give yourself a few extra minutes to arrive unhurried.

What do I wear? If possible, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows access to your lower legs and arms. We provide draping for all other areas.

What is your cancellation policy? Life happens, and we understand plans change. We simply ask for 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule, which lets us offer the time to another patient. Cancellations within 24 hours are subject to a fee of 50% of the treatment cost, and missed appointments are subject to the full cost. Appointments are held with a card on file.
Please note that all treatment packages are non-refundable once purchased.

## Pricing & *packages.*

What does a session cost? Initial Consultation + Acupuncture $275 (90 min)
Follow-Up Acupuncture $195 (60 min)
Facial Acupuncture $350 (90 min)
Cupping Therapy (standalone) $125 (45 min)

Do you offer packages? Yes. We offer four packages designed for patients ready to commit to consistent care:
Senuri Spark 3 follow-up sessions · $525 · Valid 90 days. For patients building on their initial consultation.
Senuri Immersion 1 initial + 7 follow-up sessions · $1,475 · Valid 4 months. For patients addressing complex, chronic, or deeply rooted conditions.
Senuri Radiance 6 facial acupuncture sessions · $1,890 · Valid 4 months. A complete course of facial acupuncture that supports your skin from within.
Senuri Ritual 12 follow-up sessions · $2,060 · Valid 8 months. For existing patients making acupuncture a consistent part of their life.

[See our Packages page for full details](https://senuriacupuncture.com/packages/)

Do you accept insurance? We don't currently work with insurance providers directly. We're happy to provide a superbill upon request that you can submit to your insurer for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Many patients find they're able to recover a portion of their costs this way.

## You've done your research. *The rest happens in person.*
[Book your first visit](#book)