Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine | Arlington, McLean & Alexandria, VA

If you’re curious about acupuncture, Chinese medicine, or holistic wellness in McLean, VA (or nearby Arlington and Alexandria), you’re not alone. Below are the most common questions we hear at Eastern Roots Wellness, answered clearly and honestly to help you feel confident before your first visit.

What services do you offer at your acupuncture clinic in Arlington, VA?

At Eastern Roots Wellness, we practice Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a comprehensive medical system that treats the whole person—not just symptoms.

Our services include:

• Acupuncture

• Cupping Therapy

• Gua Sha Therapy

• Dietary & Lifestyle Guidance based on Chinese Medicine

• Cosmetic Acupuncture

• Facial Gua Sha & Facial Cupping

  
  

We serve patients from Arlington, McLean, Alexandria, and surrounding Northern Virginia communities.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete system of medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. It focuses on restoring balance within the body to support healing, prevention, and overall wellness.

TCM may include:

• Acupuncture to regulate the nervous system and circulation

• Herbal and dietary guidance

• Manual therapies like cupping and gua sha

• Lifestyle recommendations tailored to you

  
  

Rather than treating isolated symptoms, TCM looks at patterns in the body to address the root cause. So, yes, we will help you with your chief complaint or reason for coming, but we will also be able to help with long-term relief.

What is acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture involves the gentle insertion of very thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body. These points help regulate the nervous system, improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing response.

People seek acupuncture for:

• Pain and injuries

• Stress, anxiety, and sleep issues

• Digestive concerns

• Hormonal balance

• Women’s health

• Immune support

• Facial rejuvenation and cosmetic care

  
  

Acupuncture is safe, effective, and deeply restorative when performed by a licensed practitioner.

What is cupping therapy?

Cupping therapy uses suction cups placed on the skin to increase circulation, release muscle tension, and move stagnation in the body.

Cupping is commonly used for:

• Neck, shoulder, and back pain

• Athletic recovery

• Headaches and migraines

• Stress and tension

• Respiratory support

• Circulation and insulin levels

  
  

The circular marks left behind are temporary and indicate improved circulation—not bruising or injury. What you see is indicative of what is already going on in the body. The pressure created by the cups helps to bring the imbalance closer to the surface of the skin, allowing for better circulation in the area.

What is gua sha therapy?

Gua sha is a manual therapy where a smooth-edged tool is used to gently scrape the skin, encouraging circulation and lymphatic drainage.

We offer both:

• Body gua sha for pain, stiffness, TMJ, sinus congestion, and tension

• Facial gua sha for skin health, sculpting, lymphatic drainage and relaxation

  
  

What should I expect at my first visit?

From the moment you walk in, our goal is to help you feel welcomed, informed, and relaxed.

Here’s what to expect:

• A warm front desk welcome

• Time to ask questions

• Insurance benefit verification to determine what coverage you might have

• Treatment in a private room with Dr. Sarah

  
  

Every visit is unhurried and tailored specifically to you.

What does an initial acupuncture or treatment visit look like?

Each service varies in length, but every initial visit always begins with a thorough intake. Dr. Sarah takes time to understand your health history, concerns, goals, and lifestyle so your treatment is truly personalized.

Follow-up visits are typically shorter since we don’t need to repeat the full intake—however, Dr. Sarah always reassesses at every appointment before beginning treatment. Your care evolves as you do.

How many sessions will I need?

Treatment plans depend on your goals, the condition being treated, and whether symptoms are acute or chronic.

General guidelines:

• Acupuncture:

  • Acute conditions: ~4–6 sessions

  • Chronic or long-term conditions: ~6–8 sessions or more

• Cosmetic Acupuncture:

  • Full protocol: 12 sessions

  • 2x/week for 3 weeks, then weekly for 8 weeks

• Facial Gua Sha & Facial Cupping:

  • Event-based glow: 1–2 sessions

  • TMJ, sinus issues, facial tension: 2–4 sessions

• Cupping Therapy (body):

  • Ongoing care varies based on condition and response

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Dr. Sarah will always discuss recommendations clearly so you know what to expect. Again, our goal is to help you feel better while also making sure you feel comfortable with treatment.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Most people are surprised by how gentle acupuncture feels. Sensations vary and may include warmth, heaviness, tingling, or deep relaxation. Many patients fall asleep during treatment.

Dr. Sarah’s extensive training ensures treatments are both effective and comfortable.

What training does Dr. Sarah have?

Dr. Sarah has all required licensure and education—plus advanced training beyond the standard.

Her background includes:

• Doctorate in Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (not all practitioners hold this)

• Six years of mentorship under senior practitioners

• Training in multiple acupuncture styles, including TCM and Five Element Acupuncture

• Certification in the NADA Protocol (a specialized ear acupuncture protocol used to support stress, addiction recovery, trauma, and nervous system regulation)

• Advanced certification in Cosmetic Acupuncture

  
  

This depth of training allows her to treat both complex conditions and cosmetic concerns with precision and care.

Why choose Eastern Roots Wellness for acupuncture in McLean, VA?

Eastern Roots Wellness is rooted in thoughtful, individualized care—not rushed treatments or one-size-fits-all protocols.

Patients choose us because:

• You’re treated one-on-one by Dr. Sarah

• Appointments are unhurried and intentional

• We blend clinical expertise with genuine human connection

• We serve Arlington, McLean, and Alexandria with a deep understanding of our local community

  
  

Your health is personal—and your care should be too.

Commonly Asked Questions About Acupuncture