Logo for Sacred Waters Acupuncture & Healing Center with water splash graphics and a sun design.

Frequently asked questionS

  • You can schedule an appointment in one of three ways:

    1. Through the Jane App: If this is your first treatment, you will need to create an account with the Jane App. This platform allows you to conveniently book your appointments at your leisure and provides the necessary forms to complete prior to your treatment.

      https://sacredwatersacu.janeapp.com/

    2. By Phone, Email, or Website:

      • Phone: You can call us directly at 781-946-0077 and our staff will be happy to assist you in scheduling your appointment.

      • Email: Alternatively, you can send us an email at info@sacredwatersacu.com with your preferred appointment times, and we will respond promptly to confirm your booking.

      • Contact Us Section: You can also visit the "Contact Us" section of our website. Here, you can fill out a form with your details and appointment preferences, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

    3. Assistance with the Jane App: If you encounter any difficulties using the Jane App or if you prefer not to use technology, please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance. We are here to help!

  • Yes, an initial consultation is required for all types of sessions. This consultation is crucial as it enables us to thoroughly understand your health history and specific needs, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that maximizes the effectiveness of your care.

  • After the initial consultation, you will proceed to your first acupuncture session. During this appointment, you can anticipate a detailed summary of the consultation, along with a personalized treatment plan designed to address your specific needs. Should you have any additional questions regarding acupuncture at this time, we will be pleased to provide clarification.

    The session will commence with a comprehensive examination, which will include an assessment of your tongue and pulse, as well as a focused evaluation of the areas of concern.

    Following the examination, you will be positioned on the treatment table, where the acupuncturist will gently insert thin, single-use, sterile needles into designated acupuncture points. The treatment duration is typically divided into two segments: one dedicated to the front of the body and the other to the back. However, this may be adjusted based on your comfort and physical capabilities.

  • During your follow-up visit, you will have the opportunity to discuss your experience from the initial session. This includes any improvements, setbacks, or concerns you may have encountered. This dialogue is essential for us to evaluate the effectiveness of your treatment and determine if any adjustments are necessary to optimize your care moving forward.

  • Yes, it is advisable to wear loose-fitting clothing to allow easy access to the relevant acupuncture points. Additionally, we recommend that you arrive neither overly hungry nor excessively full. This approach helps ensure that your body can conserve its energetic resources for the treatment, which can enhance the overall effectiveness of the session. Arriving in this balanced state also promotes relaxation and comfort, allowing for a more focused and beneficial experience during your acupuncture treatment.

  • Acupuncture is generally considered to be a safe and minimally invasive treatment. Most patients report experiencing little to no pain during the insertion of the needles. While some individuals may feel a brief sensation, often described as a slight pinch or tingling, this is typically followed by a sense of relaxation and well-being.

    It is important to communicate with your acupuncturist about any discomfort you may experience, as they can adjust the treatment accordingly to ensure your comfort throughout the session. Overall, many patients find acupuncture to be a soothing experience that promotes healing and relaxation.

  • Acupuncture and Its Mechanisms

    Acupuncture involves the use of 361 standard acupuncture points located throughout the human body. These points are strategically situated in areas where nerves, blood vessels, and neuromuscular attachments converge. The practice is founded on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which asserts that health is maintained through a balanced flow of vital energy, known as "Qi" (pronounced "chee"), along specific pathways called meridians.

    Mechanisms of Acupuncture

    • Insertion of Needles: During an acupuncture session, fine, sterile needles are inserted at precise points along the meridians. This process is believed to:

      • Stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms.

      • Promote the flow of Qi.

      • Restore balance within the body.

    Effects on Body Systems

    1. Nervous System:

      • Acupuncture stimulates sensory nerves, sending signals to the brain via the spinal cord.

      • Gate Control Theory: Pain signals transmitted from the nerves encounter "gates" in the spinal cord.

        • If the gates are open, pain messages reach the brain.

        • If closed, the transmission of pain signals is reduced.

      • Certain stimuli, such as touch or heat, can activate non-painful nerve fibers, minimizing the transmission of pain. Acupuncture can help stimulate inhibitory nerve fibers, temporarily closing the gate and reducing pain signals to the brain.

    2. Endocrine System:

      • Acupuncture influences hormone release, including:

        • Reduction of stress hormones like cortisol.

        • Stimulation of endorphin release, promoting a sense of well-being.

      • Research indicates that acupuncture can also impact reproductive hormones, aiding fertility and regulating the menstrual cycle. Thus, acupuncture is not solely about relaxation; it is supported by scientific evidence.

    3. Cardiovascular System:

      • Acupuncture promotes blood flow, reduces inflammation, and enhances overall health by:

        • Encouraging better circulation, which supports the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to organs.

        • Potentially lowering blood pressure.

        • Regulating heart rhythm and reducing the risk of arrhythmias.

    4. Immune System:

      • Acupuncture influences the body's neuroendocrine system, triggering biochemical responses that enhance immune function.

      • Research has shown that acupuncture can:

        • Boost the production of natural killer (NK) cells, which are the immune system's first line of defense against viruses and cancer.

        • Stimulate the release of cytokines that regulate the immune response and inflammation.

      • Acupuncture can also help modulate an overactive immune system, reducing symptoms and promoting balance.

    Conclusion

    Acupuncture stimulates specific points in the body, triggering the body's natural ability to heal itself. Whether used to ease pain, promote healing, or enhance overall wellness, acupuncture represents a holistic and evidence-based approach to health.

  • The number of acupuncture sessions required can vary significantly depending on the individual’s specific condition [whether chronic or not], treatment goals, and response to therapy. Generally, a typical treatment plan may include:

    1. Initial Phase: This phase usually consists of 4 to 6 sessions scheduled within a few weeks. The goal is to assess your response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments to the approach.

    2. Stabilization Phase: Once improvements are noted, sessions may be spaced out to once a week or every other week. This phase focuses on maintaining the progress achieved and further enhancing overall well-being.

    3. Maintenance Phase: After achieving desired results, some patients may choose to continue with periodic maintenance sessions, which could be scheduled monthly or as needed to support ongoing health and prevent the recurrence of symptoms.

    It is important to note that treatment plans are highly individualized. Your acupuncturist will work with you to develop a plan that aligns with your specific needs and health objectives. Regular evaluations will help determine the appropriate frequency and duration of your sessions.

  • We are currently in the process of obtaining credentialing with select health insurance providers. This process typically takes between 2 to 6 months to complete. The insurance companies we are seeking to become credentialed with include:

    • Blue Cross Blue Shield

    • Mass Health (Wellsense, CCA, Fallon)

    • Cigna

    • Health Plan/HP

    • MGB

    • Tufts (Private, Public, Senior)

    • United Health Care (Private, Senior)

    • Aetna

    We will make announcements as soon as we begin accepting these insurance plans. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

  • If you find that you are too sensitive to needling, there are several alternative, non-insertive therapies we can explore, as well as techniques to promote relaxation. These include:

    • Tui Na (Massage): This traditional Chinese therapeutic massage employs various techniques to stimulate the flow of Qi and promote relaxation, alleviating pain and tension in the muscles and joints.

    • Cupping: This therapy involves placing specialized cups on the skin to create suction. Cupping enhances circulation, relieves muscle tension, and promotes healing by increasing blood flow to the treated areas.

    • Gua Sha: This technique utilizes a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape the skin. Gua Sha promotes circulation, reduces inflammation, and helps release muscle tension, contributing to overall wellness.

    • Acupressure: Similar to acupuncture, acupressure involves applying pressure to specific acupuncture points on the body using fingers or tools. This method can effectively relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve energy flow without the use of needles.

    • Breathing Exercises: For individuals who experience anxiety or fear of needles, breathing techniques can be beneficial. Practicing deep, controlled breathing can help promote relaxation and reduce sensitivity before needling.

    These alternatives and techniques can provide effective relief and support your health and well-being. Please feel free to discuss any of these options further.

  • At Sacred Waters Acupuncture & Healing Center, we believe in the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. When one aspect is out of balance, it can affect the others, leading to a state of overall disarray. Adalis has a special interest in mental and spiritual health, and by incorporating spiritual services, we aim to provide a more comprehensive approach to achieving physical, spiritual, and mental balance.

    These services are designed to support individuals in their personal growth and healing journeys, empowering them to navigate life's challenges with greater clarity and peace. Our commitment is to create a nurturing environment where everyone can explore their spirituality at their own pace, ultimately fostering a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them.

  • No, initiation is not a requirement to benefit from spiritual services. Individuals can access and engage with these services regardless of their initiation status. Spiritual services are designed to support personal growth, healing, and well-being for everyone, regardless of their background or experience.

    These services can provide valuable insights, guidance, and support on your spiritual journey, helping you connect with your inner self and enhance your overall quality of life. If you have any further questions or would like more information, please feel free to ask.

  • Street parking is available for your convenience. In the event that parking is not available in front of the building, you may utilize the Lower Lot of Gonzalez Field, located at 506 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026. This parking area offers free public parking with no time limit and is situated just across the street from our office.

    1. Start at Forest Hills Station:

      • Board the MBTA 34E bus towards Dedham.

    2. Travel on the 34E Bus:

      • Remain on the bus for approximately 20-25 minutes.

    3. Get Off at the Stop:

      • Disembark at the High Street @ Dedham Square stop.

    4. Walk to 488 High Street:

      • From the bus stop, walk northeast on High Street for about 0.2 miles (approximately a 5-minute walk) until you reach 488 High Street.

  • We understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes appointments need to be rescheduled. To ensure that we can accommodate all of our clients, we kindly ask that you adhere to the following cancellation policy:

    1. Cancellation Notice:

      • Please provide at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This allows us to offer the time slot to other clients in need of treatment. There is no fee if a 24 hour’ notice is given.

    2. Late Cancellations:

      • Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled appointment may incur a cancellation fee. This fee will be equal to 75% of the session cost.

    3. No-Shows:

      • If you do not show up for your appointment without prior notice, a no-show fee will be charged. This fee will be equal to 100% of the session cost.

    4. Payment of Fees:

      • Any cancellation or no-show fees will be billed to your card on file.

    5. Thank You for Understanding:

      • We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us provide the best care for all our clients.