Question 1

Do I need a referral for acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

No referral is required for private acupuncture appointments. If your appointment is related to an ACC injury, bring any claim details you already have and our team can explain your options.

Question 2

Is ACC treatment available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Meditree is an ACC registered provider for eligible injury-related care. We can explain ACC surcharges, private fees and next steps before treatment begins.

Question 3

What conditions can acupuncture help with?

Accepted Answer

Patients commonly seek acupuncture support for back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches, sports injuries, stress, sleep concerns, digestive health, women's health and general wellbeing. Your practitioner will assess whether acupuncture is appropriate for your situation.

Question 4

Do you offer physiotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Meditree provides physiotherapy in East Auckland, including assessment, exercise prescription, sports injury rehabilitation, post-operative recovery and functional movement restoration.

Question 5

Do you provide Chinese herbal medicine?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide Chinese herbal medicine consultations using personalised prescriptions and GMP-certified herbal granules when clinically appropriate.

Question 6

How do I make a booking?

Accepted Answer

You can book online through our Cliniko booking link, call the clinic, or contact us if you are unsure which appointment type is best for your needs.

Question 7

Does acupuncture hurt?

Accepted Answer

Most people find acupuncture surprisingly comfortable. The needles used are extremely thin (about the width of a human hair) and nothing like injection needles. You may feel a slight tingling, warmth, or dull ache when the needle reaches the acupuncture point - this is called 'De Qi' and indicates the treatment is working. Many patients find the experience deeply relaxing and even fall asleep during treatment.

Question 8

Is acupuncture safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, acupuncture is very safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. At Meditree, we use only sterile, single-use disposable needles. Our practitioner is fully registered with the Acupuncture NZ and adheres to strict hygiene and safety protocols. Side effects are rare and typically mild, such as slight bruising at needle sites.

Question 9

How does acupuncture work?

Accepted Answer

From a traditional perspective, acupuncture works by balancing the flow of Qi (vital energy) through pathways called meridians. From a modern scientific view, acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, releasing natural pain-relieving chemicals, improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and activating the body's self-healing mechanisms. Research has shown acupuncture affects multiple body systems including immune, hormonal, and cardiovascular systems.

Question 10

What conditions can acupuncture treat?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture is effective for a wide range of conditions including chronic and acute pain (back, neck, shoulder, headaches), stress and anxiety, digestive issues, women's health concerns (fertility, menstrual issues, menopause), sleep problems, and sports injuries. The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as effective for over 100 conditions.

Question 11

How many treatments will I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of treatments varies depending on your condition, how long you've had it, and your individual response. Acute conditions may resolve in 2-4 sessions, while chronic conditions typically require 6-12 sessions. After your initial consultation, we'll discuss a personalized treatment plan with clear goals and expected timeline. Many patients notice improvement after just 2-3 sessions.

Question 12

How often should I have acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Initially, we typically recommend weekly sessions to build momentum. As your condition improves, we gradually space treatments to fortnightly, then monthly for maintenance. Some patients choose to continue with monthly 'tune-up' sessions for ongoing wellness and prevention.

Question 13

How long is each session?

Accepted Answer

Your initial consultation takes approximately 60-75 minutes, including a thorough health assessment and your first treatment. Follow-up sessions are typically 45-60 minutes. We never rush - each session includes time for discussion, treatment, and relaxation.

Question 14

What should I wear to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be rolled up to access your elbows and knees. We commonly use points on the lower arms, lower legs, back, and abdomen. Gowns are available if needed. Avoid wearing heavy makeup or strong perfumes as these can interfere with diagnosis.

Question 15

What should I do before and after treatment?

Accepted Answer

Before: Eat a light meal (don't come hungry or overly full), avoid alcohol and caffeine, and try to arrive relaxed. After: Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous exercise for a few hours, and allow time to rest if possible. Some people feel energized after treatment, while others feel deeply relaxed - both responses are normal.

Question 16

Is acupuncture covered by ACC?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Acupuncture is covered by ACC for injury-related conditions. If you have an ACC claim, we can treat you with significantly reduced fees. You'll need an ACC45 form from your GP or can start a claim directly with us for eligible injuries. ACC covers conditions like sports injuries, workplace injuries, back injuries, and accident-related pain.

Question 17

How much does ACC cover?

Accepted Answer

With a valid ACC claim, you only pay a co-payment (surcharge) which is typically $15-25 per session, depending on the treatment. ACC covers the rest. Without ACC, our standard consultation fee applies. We'll always be transparent about costs before treatment.

Question 18

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Many health insurance policies cover acupuncture. We provide detailed invoices that you can submit to your insurer for reimbursement. Check with your insurance provider about your specific coverage. Common insurers that cover acupuncture include Southern Cross, NIB, and Partners Life.

Question 19

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

Initial Consultation (60-75 min): $120 | Follow-up Treatment (45-60 min): $85 | ACC Co-payment: $20. We also offer package deals for multiple sessions. Please see our booking page for current pricing and any special offers.

Question 20

What happens at my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your first visit begins with a comprehensive health consultation. We'll discuss your main concern, medical history, lifestyle, diet, sleep, and stress levels. We'll also perform traditional diagnostic methods like pulse and tongue assessment. Based on this, we'll explain our findings, discuss a treatment plan, and proceed with your first acupuncture session. You'll leave with clear understanding of your condition and next steps.

Question 21

Do I need a referral from my doctor?

Accepted Answer

No referral is needed to see us privately. However, if you're claiming through ACC, you may need an ACC45 form from your GP. For some health insurance claims, a GP referral may be required - check with your insurer.

Question 22

Can I book online?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can book 24/7 through our online booking system. Simply choose your preferred appointment type, select an available time, and complete your details. You'll receive an instant confirmation and reminder before your appointment.

Question 23

Can I have acupuncture while pregnant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, acupuncture is safe and beneficial during pregnancy when performed by a trained practitioner. We specialize in pregnancy acupuncture and can help with morning sickness, back pain, fatigue, preparation for labor, and breech presentation. Certain points are avoided during pregnancy, and our practitioner is specifically trained in prenatal care.

Question 24

Can children receive acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Yes, children can benefit from acupuncture. For younger children, we often use very gentle techniques like Shonishin (non-insertive pediatric acupuncture) or fewer, finer needles. Children often respond very quickly to treatment. Common conditions we treat include digestive issues, sleep problems, and anxiety.

Question 25

I'm scared of needles. Can I still try acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Many of our patients initially had needle phobia. Acupuncture needles are nothing like medical needles - they're hair-thin and most people don't feel them at all. We always start gently, use the finest needles, and work at your pace. We also offer needle-free options like acupressure, cupping, or moxibustion if preferred.

Question 26

Can acupuncture help with fertility?

Accepted Answer

Yes, acupuncture is well-researched for fertility support. It can help regulate menstrual cycles, improve egg quality, support IVF/IUI procedures, reduce stress, and address underlying issues affecting fertility. We work alongside your fertility specialist and can coordinate care for optimal results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Treatment Questions

About Acupuncture

Treatment & Sessions

ACC & Payment

First Visit

Specific Concerns

Still Have Questions?