Question 1

How does acupuncture work?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture works in several ways, but the most important functions are activating and deactivating the brain and nervous system.

Question 2

What if I don't like needles?

Accepted Answer

We have options that don't involve needles, including Microcurrent stimulation, laser, or working with supplements instead of acupuncture.

Question 3

What is group acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Most of the points we use are on the arms and legs, so we can treat you seated in a recliner. Group acupuncture is done in a room with several recliners, and since we can see more patients per hour, we pass the discount on to you.

Question 4

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Appointments reserve one-on-one time with a provider, so please give as much notice as possible if you need to cancel. Missing an appointment or canceling with less than 1 business day's notice results in a full charge. If we're both available within the next week, we can schedule a makeup appointment.

Question 5

What qualifications do you have?

Accepted Answer

Stephen Durell, LAc completed a four-year graduate program in acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. He's board certified (NCCAOM), licensed in Michigan, and has practiced since 2000, helping thousands of patients.

Question 6

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Wear loose clothing that can be pushed up above the knee and elbow. Shorts and gowns are available if needed.

Question 7

How long are appointments?

Accepted Answer

The exam and first treatment take about 90 minutes; please arrive with paperwork completed. Follow-up visits run 45-60 minutes. Some treatment options require less time.

Question 8

How many treatments will I need? Will I need to keep coming forever?

Accepted Answer

This varies, so we recommend a free phone consultation. Most new-symptom patients come in 2-4 times; conditions lasting over a year often need 8-10 visits. Most patients see lasting or permanent improvement after a full course, and ongoing care afterward depends on personal goals — many return occasionally for stress relief and prevention.

Question 9

Can we treat more than one condition at a time?

Accepted Answer

Yes — treating multiple conditions together is often important since systemic inflammation and stress can prevent your body from healing.

Question 10

Can I get other treatments at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Combining treatments often speeds results, though acupuncture alone is often enough. If you're just starting out, avoid starting more than one new treatment per week so you can tell what's helping. Acupuncture can also help ease soreness from other treatments.

Question 11

Do I need to do anything after treatment to get the best results?

Accepted Answer

Avoid resuming limiting activities until results are stable. Eating well, staying hydrated, sleeping well, and taking it easy on treatment days all support faster healing.

Question 12

My other health care provider offers dry needling. Why should I come to you?

Accepted Answer

Dry needling is one narrow acupuncture technique focused on muscle tension. Licensed acupuncturists are trained to treat broader underlying causes — inflammation, hormone imbalance, stress, digestion, circulation — that dry needling doesn't address, which is often why it only gives temporary relief.

Question 13

Do I have to take supplements?

Accepted Answer

No — acupuncture and herbal therapy each work as stand-alone treatments, though patients using both often see faster results.

Question 14

Why should I buy supplements from you?

Accepted Answer

We've thoroughly vetted our supplement brands, including visiting the farms and processing facilities, so you can trust the quality — at prices generally below what you'd find online.

Question 15

How to I reorder supplements?

Accepted Answer

Most supplements are kept in stock; call ahead to check inventory. For direct shipping, call 616.855.7718 or set up an account at standardprocess.com/patient-direct with practice code 7PYD4H. Non-patients can order at awm.standardprocess.com.

Question 16

What does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs depend on the specific treatments and number of visits needed. We offer a free phone consultation for new patients to estimate costs.

Question 17

Does your office take insurance?

Accepted Answer

Insurance isn't yet routine for acupuncture in Michigan. We don't bill insurance directly, which keeps costs down — you pay at time of service and can seek reimbursement using the receipt and medical codes we provide. Many patients use HSA cards.

Acupuncture FAQs — Common Questions About Treatment in Grand Rapids

FAQ

Here, you'll find answers to common questions about acupuncture and our services. If you don’t see your question listed, feel free to contact us directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does acupuncture work?

What if I don’t like needles?

What is group acupuncture?

What is your cancellation policy?

What qualifications do you have?