Frequently Asked Questions


Does It Hurt?
Many people have a fear of hypodermic needles, like those used by your physician to draw blood or inject fluids. Acupuncture needles, on the other hand, are nothing at all like hypodermic needles. Acupuncture needles are super-fine, pre-sterilized, solid, surgical-quality filaments that are inserted very superficially into the skin.

Sometimes, there is a sensation when the needle accesses the blocked qi energy of the acupuncture point. Patients have varying descriptions of this phenomenon such as: the sensation is a feeling of spreading warmth; sometimes it’s a momentary dull ache, or a slight tingle. The feelings may be different from one side of the body to the other and from one treatment to the next. There are many variables that contribute to each unique treatment.


Fear of Needles?
If you have fear of acupuncture needles, it is unwarranted. Acupuncture needles are nothing at all like the more familiar hypodermic needles used by your physician to draw blood or inject fluids. Acupuncture needles are sterile, disposable, fine, and solid metal filaments. Unlike hypodermics, acupuncture needles are most often inserted into the superficial surface of the body. Since the Food and Drug Administration have categorized acupuncture needles as medical instruments, it is wise that you are completely guaranteed of your acupuncturist’s license and registration by New York State. An up-to-date and current registration certificate issued by the state must be visibly displayed within his or her office.


What about Insurance coverage?
Ms. Macchiavelli, L.Ac., practices a unique and ancient form of Chinese acupuncture called Classical Five-Element Acupuncture. This form of acupuncture treats the underlying Root Cause, rather than simply treating or palliating the symptoms. You are the only patient that she treats during the hour, and she is with you for the entire hour. Ms. Macchiavelli does not insert the needles in the patient only to leave your treatment room to treat other patients in different rooms at the same time. You will receive her full, undivided attention and treatment for the entire time of your visit.

Policies vary from insurance company to insurance company and policy to policy. Please check with your insurance company’s customer service to find out if you do have coverage for acupuncture on your policy.

We currently accept all Excellus, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna and some other plans that have acupuncture included. We verify with your insurance company after your first appointment to learn if your plan includes coverage for your treatments. You are responsible for payment at the time of your first appointment. Afterwards, if applicable, your co-payment will be your charge.

All Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) cards are accepted at the time of your acupuncture appointment.