Questions
What people ask first
Does it hurt?
Most people feel a brief pinch or a small ache as a needle goes in, and then very little. Everyone is different. Tell Ismael what you feel and he will adjust a needle or take it out. If needles are not for you, ask for ear seeds instead.
Are the needles clean?
Yes. Each needle is sterile, comes from a sealed pack, is used once and goes straight into a sharps container. Ismael washes his hands and cleans the ear before he places anything.
How many sessions do people plan for?
Many people come once or twice a week for a few weeks and then decide whether to keep going. That is a plan you and Ismael make together, and it is never a promise of a result.
What should I wear, and should I eat first?
Wear what you have on. Sleeves and hair that move away from your ears help. Have something light to eat beforehand, because coming hungry can leave you light-headed.
Do I have to talk in the group?
No. Sessions are quiet. Ismael speaks at the start to say what will happen, and you can close your eyes, rest or just look around the room.
Is it all right if I am pregnant, take blood thinners or have a pacemaker?
Tell Ismael before the session. Those are the things to say first, along with a bleeding disorder, lymph node removal and a fear of needles. He may suggest ear seeds or a private session, or ask you to check with your doctor first.
Will I have to change my medicine?
No. Keep taking what your prescriber has given you, and tell your prescriber about everything you take, including sleep aids and supplements. Ear acupuncture is something you add to your care, not a change to it.
Does insurance cover it?
Some plans reimburse acupuncture and many do not. We are out of network, so we give you an itemized receipt to send to your plan, and your plan decides. For an HSA or FSA card, ask your plan administrator. The fees page explains the rest.
What does it not do?
It is not therapy, and it is not a replacement for medicine or for care of a sleep disorder. It is a quiet, structured hour of rest with a few ear points, and what people notice varies from person to person.
When should I see someone else?
If poor sleep or a low mood goes on for weeks, gets worse, or starts to get in the way of work or home, please talk with your doctor or a therapist as well. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline), any time. In an emergency, call 911.
Another question?
Write or call and Ismael will answer it in plain words.