How Much Does Acupuncture Cost?

Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that has recently been gaining popularity in America as a form of alternative treatment for everything from chronic pelvic pain to neurological disorders to weight loss.

Acupuncture has shown much success in treating especially stubborn conditions, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has declared acupuncture to be a safe form of treatment for many illnesses.

Acupuncture uses disposable, stainless steel needles that are inserted into the surface of the skin at very specific points, called meridians.

When these meridians are stimulated, the patient is granted relief from symptoms and underlying issues.

But, how much does acupuncture cost?

Compare Acupuncture to Other Alternatives

Given the cost of healthcare in many countries today, it is only natural that when considering acupuncture for any reason, you would be concerned with the costs associated with the treatment.

When asking how much does acupuncture cost, it is important to not only consider the dollar amount, but also what you'll be getting for your money.

The Cost of Acupuncture:

The fee for your first visit to an acupuncturist will more than likely cost a bit more than the fee for routine acupuncture treatment.

You can expect the first visit to cost between $75 and $100.

The first session is a bit more expensive because it typically lasts longer, and includes a very thorough assessment of your current health and medical history.

If you are taking prescription drugs, be sure to bring a detailed list of exactly what, when, and how much you are taking.

An acupuncture practitioner will also check your pulse and quite possibly your tongue.

This initial visit can be expected to last at least an hour.

Getting Follow-Up Sessions

So, how much does acupuncture cost once the initial visit is completed?

Routine sessions will be shorter in length than the first session, often lasting between 30 - 40 minutes, and will usually cost between $50 and $70 per session.

Costs are similar nationwide.

Some acupuncture facilities offer a fairly significant discount for patients who pay in advance for multiple visits, sometimes as much as 30% off.

Check with your acupuncturist regarding the length of your treatment before you prepay for any sessions!

Ask an Acupuncturist Near You

Also, with recent clinical studies showing positive treatment results for many common ailments, some insurance companies have caught on to the benefits of using acupuncture instead of expensive prescription meds, and are now covering some or all of the cost of acupuncture treatment.

Check with your agent or review your latest policy to find out if you are covered.