How it works
Your first acupuncture visit: what to expect, start to finish
No surprises. Here is every step, how long it takes and what we need from you, so you can plan around it.
Step 1 · Before your visit
Three small things, then you're booked
Answer a short screening
A few questions about what's going on, a safety check and the practical details. It tells you right away whether acupuncture is a good fit, so nobody wastes a trip.
2 minutes · onlineWe call you
We pick a time together, explain costs and answer questions. Share your insurance card and we'll check your out-of-network acupuncture benefits for free.
Within 1 business dayComplete your intake form
A secure link arrives by text two days before your visit. It covers your health history and medications so your first visit can focus on you.
About 10 minutesStep 2 · Your first visit
Your first 90 minutes, minute by minute
The first visit is the longest because it sets the plan. Every visit after it is about an hour.
What it feels like
A light tap as each needle goes in, then warmth, tingling or a pleasant heaviness. Most people feel deeply relaxed, and many fall asleep during the rest.
- 0–5 min
Arrive and settle
Check in at Suite 507 on the fifth floor. Warm tea, a quiet room and a moment to breathe.
- 5–30
A real conversation
Your goals, history, sleep, digestion, stress and what has or hasn't worked before. Chinese medicine looks at the whole pattern, not only the symptom.
- 30–40
Traditional assessment
Tongue and pulse diagnosis, and gentle palpation of tender areas. For pain, we also check how far and how comfortably you can move.
- 40–75
Treatment and rest
Between 6 and 20 hair-thin needles, plus cupping or gentle heat if they'll help. You rest for 25–35 minutes while Orna checks in on you.
- 75–90
Your written plan
How many visits, how often, what should change by when, and simple things to do at home. You leave with your superbill and next appointment.
Step 3 · Follow-up visits
A plan that tapers as you improve
Each follow-up starts with a 10-minute check-in, and treatment adjusts to how you responded. Every fourth visit we review progress together.
- Weeks 1–4
- Weekly
- Weeks 5–8
- Every other week
- After that
- Monthly, if you choose
Progress you can see
You rate pain, sleep or stress from 0 to 10 at each visit, so we both know what is changing.
An honest review
At visit four we decide together: continue, space visits out, or refer you to someone better suited.
Coordinated care
With your permission, we share updates with your doctor or physical therapist.
Step 4 · Staying on track
Reminders that keep your plan moving
Results come from consistency. These messages make it easy to keep every appointment.
Text reminder with your intake link (first visit) or a quick check-in question.
Reply C to confirm. Need to move it? Reschedule up to 24 hours ahead at no charge.
After each visit, one home-care tip and your superbill by email.
A short progress summary you can share with your doctor.
How to prepare
Before and after each treatment
Bring and do
- Eat a light meal 1–2 hours before
- Wear loose clothing that rolls above the knee and elbow
- Bring your insurance card, photo ID and a list of medications
- Bring recent test results or imaging if you have them
After treatment
- Drink water and keep the rest of the day gentle
- Skip intense exercise and alcohol until tomorrow
- Mild soreness or tiredness is normal and passes within a day
- Note any changes to share at your next visit
Tell us first if you
- Are or might be pregnant
- Have a pacemaker or other implanted device
- Take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder
- Have new or worsening symptoms since you booked
Getting here
25 W 45th St, Suite 507, New York, NY 10036. Our suite is on West 45th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. Check in with the lobby desk and take the elevator to the fifth floor. B, D, F, M to 42 St–Bryant Park · 7 to 5 Av · 4, 5, 6, S and Metro-North at Grand Central (6-min walk) · Times Sq–42 St (8-min walk).
Questions
About the process
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. A friend or family member is welcome in the room for the conversation, and can wait in the lounge during treatment.
What if I'm nervous about needles?
Tell us. We start with fewer needles in easy places like the hands and feet, explain each one and stop whenever you ask.
What if I need to cancel?
Reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours ahead at no charge. Later changes and missed visits are charged the full session fee.
How long is the first appointment?
Plan for about 90 minutes: around 30 minutes of conversation and diagnosis, then roughly 45–60 minutes of treatment and rest.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing that rolls above the knee and elbow. Gowns and sheets are provided if we need access to the back or abdomen.
Should I eat beforehand?
Yes, have a light meal or snack one to two hours before. Avoid coming in very hungry or right after a heavy meal, and skip coffee just before if you can.
Can I bring my test results?
Please do. Recent bloodwork, imaging, cycle charts or IVF protocols help Dr. Iskhakov plan treatment around your other care.
How many sessions will I need?
Acute issues often respond in 3–6 visits. Chronic conditions and fertility support usually take 8–12 sessions over two to three months. You will get a specific estimate at your first visit.
Start with step one
Two minutes of questions. You’ll know right away if acupuncture is a good fit.
See if acupuncture fits youPrefer to talk? Call (347) 596-0931