FAQs

What is acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture is a core modality of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that uses the insertion of ultra-thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to restore the free flow of qi (vital energy) and blood through the meridian system. From a modern biomedical perspective, acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins and other natural analgesics, regulates the autonomic nervous system, modulates immune function, reduces inflammation, and influences neurotransmitter balance. It is one of the most extensively researched complementary therapies in the world, with strong evidence supporting its use for pain, headache, nausea, anxiety, insomnia, and many other conditions.
 

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine — much thinner than a hypodermic needle — and most patients feel little to no pain during insertion. You may feel a mild sensation of pressure, warmth, tingling, or a dull ache at the needle site, which TCM practitioners call “de qi” (arrival of qi) and which indicates that the point has been activated. Most patients find acupuncture deeply relaxing and often fall asleep during treatment.
 

How is Dr. Leddy qualified to practice acupuncture?

Dr. Bethany Leddy holds a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM) and a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine (MSOM) — the highest academic credentials available in the field. She has over 22 years of clinical experience and has completed advanced post-graduate training in trigger point acupuncture, fertility and reproductive medicine, and oncology acupuncture. She is licensed in New York State and maintains national board certification through the NCCAOM.
 

What conditions can acupuncture treat?

The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as effective for over 100 conditions. At Elemental Acupuncture, Dr. Leddy treats pain and orthopedic conditions, women’s health and fertility, digestive disorders, immune and inflammatory conditions, oncology support, neurological disorders, endocrine conditions, skin conditions, anxiety, depression, insomnia, headaches, and much more. See our full conditions treated page.
 

What should I expect at my first visit?

Your first appointment at Elemental Acupuncture is 60–90 minutes. Dr. Leddy will conduct a comprehensive health history intake, perform TCM diagnostic assessment (including pulse diagnosis and tongue examination), review any relevant Western medical records or lab work, and provide your first acupuncture treatment. You will leave with a personalized treatment plan and a realistic timeline for achieving your health goals. See our Your First Visit page for full details.
 

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

This depends on your condition, how long you have had it, and your overall health. Acute conditions often respond within 3–6 sessions. Chronic conditions typically require 10–20 sessions for full therapeutic response, with maintenance care thereafter. Dr. Leddy provides a personalized treatment timeline at your first visit and reassesses regularly as treatment progresses.
 

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes. Acupuncture is one of the safest medical interventions available when practiced by a trained and licensed professional. Dr. Leddy uses single-use, sterile, disposable needles for every treatment — eliminating any risk of cross-contamination. Side effects are rare and typically mild, including minor bruising or temporary soreness at needle sites.
 

Can I receive acupuncture if I am pregnant?

Yes, with appropriate precautions. Dr. Leddy has extensive training in prenatal acupuncture and uses trimester-specific protocols that carefully avoid contraindicated points. Acupuncture is widely recognized as safe and beneficial during pregnancy for nausea, back pain, anxiety, fetal positioning, and labor preparation. See our pregnancy care page.
 

What is Chinese herbal medicine and is it safe?

Chinese herbal medicine uses carefully formulated combinations of plant, mineral, and animal substances to address the root TCM patterns underlying health conditions. Dr. Leddy prescribes only pharmaceutical-grade herbal formulas from reputable suppliers that test for heavy metals, pesticides, and contaminants. She reviews all current medications before prescribing and is trained in herb-drug interactions. Chinese herbal medicine is safe when prescribed by a qualified practitioner.
 

What services does Elemental Acupuncture offer beyond acupuncture?

In addition to acupuncture and trigger point therapy, Elemental Acupuncture offers cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, tui na, shiatsu, electrical stimulation, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary counseling, microbiome testing, reiki, cosmetic acupuncture, and specialized pediatric acupuncture (sho ni shi). See our full services page.
 

Does Dr. Leddy treat children?

Yes. Dr. Leddy has 22 years of pediatric experience and uses sho ni shi (needle-free pediatric acupressure) and seshokushin techniques for children — making treatment comfortable and effective for even very young patients. See our pediatric acupuncture page.
 

Can acupuncture be used alongside conventional medical treatment?

Yes. Acupuncture is designed to complement Western medicine, not replace it. Dr. Leddy works collaboratively with patients’ physicians and specialists, communicating openly and ensuring that acupuncture and herbal care enhance — not interfere with — conventional treatment. She never recommends stopping conventional medications without appropriate medical supervision.
 

What is trigger point acupuncture?

Trigger point acupuncture is an advanced technique that combines traditional acupuncture with precise anatomical targeting of myofascial trigger points — hyperirritable spots in muscles that generate local and referred pain. Dr. Leddy holds post-graduate certification in trigger point acupuncture, making her uniquely effective for musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and chronic myofascial pain conditions.
 

Where are the Elemental Acupuncture offices located?

Elemental Acupuncture has two office locations. The Tuckahoe, NY office is at 273 Columbus Ave, Suite 6A, Tuckahoe, NY 10707 (serving Westchester County). The Bryant Park, NYC office is at 108 W. 39th Street, Suite 1205, New York, NY 10018. Call (646) 872-1181 to reach either location, or see our contact page for full details.
 

What are the office hours at Elemental Acupuncture?

The Tuckahoe office is open Monday and Wednesday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, and Friday 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. The Bryant Park NYC office is open Tuesday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM. To schedule, request an appointment online or call (646) 872-1181.
 

What should I wear to my acupuncture appointment?

Wear or bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily rolled up to the elbows and knees, allowing Dr. Leddy to access points on the arms, legs, and torso without requiring a full change of clothes. Many treatment points are located below the knee and below the elbow, so loose pants and a comfortable top work well.
 

How long does each acupuncture treatment take?

Initial appointments are 60–90 minutes. Follow-up sessions are typically 45–60 minutes. Please plan for adequate time before and after your appointment — rushing in or out can reduce the therapeutic benefit of treatment.
 

Is there anything I should do or avoid before my acupuncture appointment?

Eat a light meal 1–2 hours before your appointment — arriving hungry or overly full is not ideal. Avoid alcohol on the day of treatment. Wear comfortable clothing. Bring a list of all current medications and supplements, and any relevant medical records or lab work for your initial visit.