Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture hurt?
One of the most common questions we get is, “Does acupuncture hurt?” . Most of the time acupuncture is completely painless. Every now and then there may be a point that has a little spice to it, but any unpleasant sensation will quickly go away. Patients are encouraged and expected to speak up if they have any discomfort so that if it happens our acupuncturist can quickly remedy it. Pediatric acupuncture is very gentle, and the needles we use are as thin as a strand of hair. Most kids (and adults) barely feel them, and some even find treatments so relaxing they drift off to sleep.
For children—or anyone—who feels nervous about needles, we also offer effective non-needle options such as acupressure, Tuina (Chinese medical massage), tuning forks, gentle laser, cupping, or specialized tools that stimulate acupuncture points without puncturing the skin. These approaches can be just as powerful for balancing the body and supporting health.
Our goal is always to meet your child (and your family) where they are, using techniques that feel safe, comfortable, and effective.
Will I have to take my clothes off?
Most of the time, treatments focus on points on the arms and legs, so there’s no need to remove your clothing. Occasionally, we may need to work on the abdomen, back, or hips. In those cases, your comfort and consent always come first. If it feels appropriate and you agree, we’ll provide a sheet for draping and step out of the room while you get settled. We also use a doorbell system, so you decide when you’re ready for us to re-enter.
How many treatments will I need before I see results?
Every person is unique, so the number of treatments varies depending on the condition, its severity, and how long it’s been present. Some children and adults notice improvement right away—even after the first session—while others may need several treatments to see lasting changes. Acute issues often respond more quickly, while chronic or complex concerns usually take a series of visits. During your initial consultation, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan so you know what to expect.
4. What are non-needle or needle-free techniques?
Non-needle (or needle-free) techniques are gentle ways to stimulate acupuncture points and support the body’s natural healing—without the use of needles. They are wonderful for children, people with needle sensitivity, or anyone who simply prefers a non-invasive approach.
Some of the most common techniques include:
Acupressure: Applying gentle pressure or massage to specific points to ease discomfort and restore balance.
Tuning forks & vibration therapy: Using sound and vibration to stimulate points in a calming, non-invasive way.
Cupping: Placing soft cups on the skin to improve circulation, ease muscle tension, and support detoxification.
Gua Sha (gentle scraping): Using a smooth tool to massage the skin, helping reduce inflammation and improve energy flow.
Shonishin (pediatric tools): A traditional Japanese method using small tools that brush or tap the skin—no puncturing involved.
Tui Na (Chinese medical massage): A therapeutic form of massage that uses rhythmic pressure and movement to improve circulation, release tension, and balance energy.
Gentle laser therapy: A safe, light-based method that stimulates acupuncture points without puncturing the skin, offering a completely painless option.
These approaches can be just as effective as needles for many conditions—calming the nervous system, improving sleep and digestion, supporting immunity, and relieving pain. In our practice, we carefully select the method that best fits each person’s needs, so every treatment feels comfortable, safe, and effective.
5. Will my child have to lay still to receive treatment?
Not at all! Pediatric acupuncture and non-needle techniques are designed with children in mind. Treatments are gentle, quick, and flexible—we can work while your child is sitting on your lap, playing with a toy, or even moving around the room. Some techniques only take a few seconds, and others can be done while your child is comfortably engaged in something else. We also love when kids take an active role in their treatment—whether that’s choosing a favorite tool, holding a tuning fork, or helping count breaths. This makes the experience positive, empowering, and stress-free, while supporting your child’s comfort and confidence.
6. Do you take insurance?
We do not accept insurance, but we’re happy to take HSA and FSA cards. For families needing ongoing care, we also offer treatment packages to make multiple visits more affordable.
7. Can I bring my children with me to my appointment or to their sibling’s appointment?
Absolutely! We welcome children in the clinic so you don’t have to worry about childcare. We have a safe, comforting space for them to play or relax while you or their sibling receive treatment. Our goal is to make appointments stress-free for parents while keeping children engaged, safe, and comfortable throughout the visit.
8. My child has a complex medical condition. Are you willing to work with their other care providers so that everyone is on the same page?
Absolutely. We believe the best care happens when all members of a child’s healthcare team are on the same page. With your consent, we are happy to communicate and collaborate with your child’s other providers to ensure treatments are coordinated, safe, and tailored to your child’s unique needs.
9. Do you do house calls?
In certain cases, yes! We understand that travel can be difficult, especially for children with complex or acute needs. House calls are available on a case-by-case basis, and we’re happy to discuss whether this option is appropriate for your family. Please call or text 520-261-1830, or email us at akilah@tranquil-tucson-acupuncture.com to talk through your situation and see if a house call could work for you.
10. Do you prescribe Chinese herbal formulas?
Yes! We carry a variety of commonly prescribed herbal formulas in both capsule and liquid (for kids) forms. We also work closely with our trusted local herb shop to provide high-quality, personalized herbal options for our patients.
11. Do you ONLY work with kids and their families? What if I want to come see you for something not listed on your website?
Yes, we specialize in caring for children and their families but we also welcome adults who are referred by our community or who are interested in acupuncture for issues beyond what’s listed on our website. We truly appreciate and love referrals from our patients and local partners! If you’re unsure whether we’re the right fit for your needs, please call or text us at 520-261-1830, or email us at akilah@tranquil-tucson-acupuncture.com before scheduling. If we feel another practitioner would be a better fit, we’ll happily help guide you to the right care.