Does acupuncture hurt? No, acupuncture should not hurt. A subtle and momentary prick is often felt around the needle as it is inserted, eventually creating a dull pressure or tingling sensation around the area during the treatment. Most people are amazed by how relaxed they feel during and after the treatment. This can only occur if the treatment is comfortable and gentle.

Is acupuncture safe? Yes. Acupuncture performed by a trained and competent practitioner is extremely safe. All needles used at White Crane Acupuncture are FDA-approved, pre-sterilized disposable needles made of surgical steel, so there is no risk of contamination. Furthermore, since Chinese medicine uses only natural ingredients (no harsh chemicals or medications), the issue of dangerous side-effects is nonexistent.

Are there any side effects? Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are amazingly safe, and are almost always free of side effects. If side effects do occur, it is usually nothing more than some local tenderness around a point or slight muscle ache that can last for a day or so. Occasionally, one of the points may bleed slightly (no more than a drop or two) if we run into a blood vessel. These will sometimes have a slight bruise around them; however, this is rare.

How does acupuncture work? According to the classical doctrine of Chinese medicine, there is an unceasing flow of life energy (Chi) throughout the human body. This vital energy originates from the major organs, and flows along the continuous circulatory channels called meridians. When the energy flow is smooth and in balance, a person is healthy; if the balance is disturbed, then a person will feel ill or pain. There are some specific points along the meridians called acupuncture points where the energy flow can be stimulated and the function of related organs can be regulated.

While Chinese concepts of the physical body may, at first, be difficult for a westerner to accept, western researchers have verified specific physiological changes during and following acupuncture. These include a strengthening of the immune system, the release of pain-killing endorphins, and better functioning of the hormonal system.

Is acupuncture preventative? Acupuncture stimulates the immune system, which can increase your resistance to bacterial and viral infection. Acupuncture promotes increased energy and vitality as well as assisting the body to respond in a proactive manner to injury or stress.

How often do I need to come in for treatments? This depends on a number of factors, including your overall health, the nature of your health concern and how long you have been bothered by it. When you consider that most health problems do not occur overnight, it is reasonable to assume that your healing will take some time as well. In general, due to the cumulative effect of the treatments, a series of treatments is given with greater frequency at the beginning (usually twice a week or three times a week for severe pain), and fewer treatments (as little as one per month) as you are improving until your condition is resolved. Each person is unique, so your treatment plan will be tailored to your unique health needs and goals in order to get the most benefit from your treatments.

What conditions are treated with acupuncture? 
Some of the conditions that can be treated with acupuncture and Chinese medicine are as follows:

  • Allergies
  • Anxiety
  • Asthma
  • Auto injuries
  • Back pain
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Colds and flu
  • Constipation
  • Cough
  • Depression
  • Diarrhea
  • Digestive disorders
  • Dizziness
  • Eczema
  • Emotional issues
  • Fatigue
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Headaches
  • IBS
  • Infertility/difficulty conceiving
  • Insomnia
  • Joint pain – shoulder, knee, elbow, wrist, neck
  • Menopause issues
  • Menstrual difficulties
  • Muscular pain, chronic and acute
  • Nausea (from pregnancy or chemotherapy)
  • Numbness 
  • PMS
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Scoliosis pain/discomfort
  • Shingles (herpes zoster)
  • Sinus headache and congestion
  • Sore throat
  • Sports injuries – e.g. Runner’s knee, tennis elbow
  • Stress management
  • Tinnitus, Meniere’s disease
  • TMJ
  • Weakened immune system


Does insurance cover acupuncture? Yes, many health insurance plans do cover acupuncture, and the treatment of injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents is covered as well. We are happy to call your insurance company on your behalf to verify the type of coverage you have. Once your coverage is verified, we will bill to your insurance company directly for any treatments you receive.

What if I don’t have insurance? Are there any other options to help make it affordable? Yes, please call us at (503)522-2872 to inquire about our treatment package discounts which help to reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Does White Crane Acupuncture provide any herbal therapy? Yes, we have an extensive Chinese herbal pharmacy that consists primarily of patent herbal formulas in capsules or granular form. The clinic also offers customized herbal powdered blends.

What sets White Crane Acupuncture apart from other acupuncture clinics? 

  • A comprehensive diagnosis is clearly communicated to you.
  • We love what we do and are devoted to top quality patient care. 
  • We take our time with you: 1.5 hours in the first visit and 60 minute follow-ups.
  • Your treatment is personally tailored to your needs. Many acupuncturists use the same protocols on all of their patients. At White Crane Acupuncture, your treatment specifically reflects your unique individual dynamics.
  • We educate you about what's wrong, and why and how it can be healed according to Chinese medical principles. 
  • When you get acupuncture treatments, at no extra charge, we give nutritional counseling, herbal consulting and stretching or exercise instruction related to your health concerns.
  • All of our herbs are GMP certified, safe and effective. 
  • You can speak to Keenan, the owner of White Crane Acupuncture, directly about your needs. 
  • Evening appointments are available.