Frequently Asked Questions

We want you to feel confident and comfortable, if you don’t find the answer you’re looking for below, please contact us.

Acupuncture

  • The medical literature shows acupuncture’s effect on nearly every biophysical system in the body. I’ve seen patients suffering from a wide variety of problems respond to acupuncture treatment when nothing else has worked.

    So, for most people, yes, acupuncture is something you should explore.

  • We’re all unique, have different needs, and considerations when it comes to our health. Many people are unsure of how acupuncture can help them or if acupuncture can address the problem they are facing. At the consultation we review your case, answer any questions, and then give you our best recommendation for a treatment program. We’ll recommend the best-suited therapies for your condition, treatment frequency, expected results and cost. Not everyone is a good candidate for our acupuncture programs, and we are happy to refer out if need be. After many years in practice, we have found that an initial consultation sets the stage for a more effective, more personalized healing journey that yields better results.

  • The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions, two to four treatments a week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health maintenance, we recommend 1-2 monthly tune ups. We discuss this more in-depth during your initial consultation. Acupuncture treatments build upon themselves, so the frequency and consistency of treatment, as well as patience, is vital to the improvement of your condition.

  • No. It’s very comfortable. Most people end up taking a nap during their treatment and leave feeling refreshed and relaxed.

  • Once you’ve had your initial consultation and are ready to jump in and begin your customized treatment plan, we’ll schedule your first acupuncture treatment – often the same day as your consultation. For your treatments, be sure to wear loose comfortable clothing and eat something at least one hour beforehand. Appointments last 30-45 minutes. During the acupuncture treatment, the needles are retained for about 15-30 minutes. Most patients become deeply relaxed or even fall asleep for a restorative power nap. The benefits of acupuncture often start immediately. After your first treatment, you may experience an excellent night of sleep, higher energy, more focus, less stress and a reduction in pain.

  • We offer multiple treatment modalities and rates vary depending on which treatments are being administered. The most effective blend of therapies for your condition will be determined at your initial consultation—so costs will vary depending on the specifics of your case. At Saco River Acupuncture, we do bill some insurance directly. As a courtesy, we will verify your insurance benefits and discuss the specifics at your consultation.  If you would like to know your plan specifics prior to your consultation, you will need to call your insurance company to inquire of your benefits in advance. We are an out-of-network provider with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. Please note: insurance companies typically only cover pain-related conditions and do not cover preventative, wellness care, or cosmetic acupuncture.

Pelvic Care Acupuncture

  • We accept only private pay and HSA/FSA payments. This allows us to be guided by your body’s needs rather than general protocols, to take a much time per session as needed and to achieve results faster based on your individual goals.

  • I treat all genders and ages with respect and honor.

  • Honestly, we see clients on both ends of the spectrum. With great awareness to pelvic health, more and more young women in popartum or perimenopause are seeking preventative support. However, pelvic health has only just started to become more mainstream, thus lots of clients are coming in with pain, symptoms or dyfnction of the pelvic floor.

  • YES! While pelvic floor weakness leading to urinary leakage is most commonly talked about, there are LOTS of other things that could be going on. There may be tightness of the pelvic floor on one side or both, there could be an issue with your surrounding structures like you back or hip, or there could even be an emotional block from miscarriages, fertility trials, or abuse. That’s what we do best is gently working into the pelvis to find out the source of its disharmony.

  • Unfortunately, pelvic health, reproductive health and sexual health have been associated with shame and confusion. I’m not here to judge you. I want to listen, support, educate and offer help. We can go through this process at whatever speed is comfortable for you.

Dry Needling

  • Dry needling is a treatment that uses thin needles to reduce muscle tension and pain. It's used by acupuncturists, physical therapists, athletic trainers, chiropractors, and physicians. We insert small, sterile filament needles into the skin and muscle directly at a myofascial trigger point. This generates a twitch response, helping release muscle tension and pain.

  • Active trigger points consist of multiple contraction knots within a muscle, and they can develop due to injury, musculoskeletal dysfunction and overuse. Active trigger points impair a person’s ability to lengthen, strengthen or contract the muscle. As a result, the muscle shortens and compresses the structure around it, causing pain.

  • Dry needling can be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal issues, including: neck, back and shoulder pain; arm pain (tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer’s elbow); headaches (migraines and tension-type); jaw and dental pain; buttock and leg pain (sciatica, hamstring strains, calf tightness/spasms).

  • Yes, dry needling is generally safe when performed by a licensed practitioner. The needles are sterile and disposable, and are typically not painful.

  • The needle used in the procedure is very thin and most patients don’t even feel it penetrate the skin. The twitch response usually elicits a very brief (less than a second) painful response. Some patients describe this feeling as a little electrical shock or cramping sensation. This twitch response is a positive and desirable reaction. Pain may also be felt in the referral zone, also and expected response to treatment.

  • Most patients report feeling sore following dry needling. Symptoms are usually described as sore muscles near the treatment area and in the areas of referred pain. Typically, the soreness lasts a few hours up to two days. Over this time, we may recommend applying heat or ice over the area, gentle stretching, and/or modifying your daily activities, depending on your individual response to the treatment and how sore you feel.

  • Patients typically notice a positive reaction within a few visits. The number of sessions needed depends on the severity of your symptoms.

  • Dry needling is generally safe for most people, but there are some situations where it might not be the right option. These include pregnancy, bleeding disorders, and fear of needles.

  • Yes and no. Technically, dry needling is different from acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine while dry needling is based on modern medicine and muscles. However, there is a lot of crossover between the two!

  • Although the exact mechanisms of dry needling are not known, the technique has demonstrated both mechanical and biochemical effects. Pioneering studies by Dr. Jay Shah and his colleagues at the National Institutes of Health have shown that inserting a needle into trigger points can cause favorable biochemical change that can assist in reducing chronic pain issues.

    Trigger points are known to have abnormal electrical activity and are surrounded by numerous chemicals known to cause inflammation. Research has shown that when a needle is successfully inserted into a trigger point and generates a local twitch response, over time, it can return the electrical and chemical environment within the muscle to its normal, relaxed state. Deactivated trigger points draw white blood cells and plasma cells into the area and create a healing response. Clinically, we see improved muscle length, strength, flexibility and a corresponding decrease in pain with our patients following dry needling treatment.

Massage

  • Massage therapy is a gentle and non-invasive treatment. While massage is recommendable to anyone searching for deep relaxation, anyone suffering from any kind of pain, stiffness, soreness, limited range of motion, tight muscles, or to prevent injury is also considered as a candidate for massage therapy.

  • There are many benefits of receiving massage therapy, including but not limited to lowered stress levels, improved sleep patterns, chronic pain relief, reduced muscle tension, increased range of motion in joints, improved circulation, stimulation of the lymphatic system, and support of the immune system.

  • The number of necessary sessions will vary from one person to another. For regular upkeep of muscle pain and tightness prevention, 1-2 sessions per month will benefit both the mind and the body. For any clients with underlying chronic or acute conditions, the number of sessions will be determined after the initial appointment, where both treatment and overall evaluation will take place.

  • We offer custom, therapeutic massages that may include any of the following techniques: myofascial stretches and releases, trigger point therapy, positional release, passive stretching, cupping, and gua sha. Each session is customized to the specific needs of the client, and these techniques are highly therapeutic while aiming to address the specific complaints of the client.

  • Deep tissue massages should never cause the client pain. However, there may be discomfort and temporary aggravation of symptoms as areas of tension are addressed. This is frequently described as a “good hurt” as those areas of discomfort are finally receiving attention. The massage therapist will verbally check-in throughout the session to ensure the client’s comfort. Soreness following the session may also be experienced. Following aftercare instructions can aid to alleviate the severity of the soreness.

  • For each session, you will only ever have to undress to your own comfortability, whatever that may be. My goal is to honor wherever you are in your own journey. Many massage techniques and assisted stretching techniques can be done completely clothed. I only ask that if you wish to remain clothed, please wear or bring loose, comfortable clothing.

  • 60 minute custom therapeutic massage $115

    90 minute custom therapeutic massage $165

    120 minute custom therapeutic massage $215

    Insurance is not accepted for massage therapy at this time.

Microneedling

  • With minimal physical discomfort, most clients are able to do the procedure without any noticeable pain. We do use a numbing cream on most clients to help minimize discomfort. There is no lingering discomfort, and we have a number of strategies we employ to minimize discomfort during treatment. Post-procedure, most people report a “tight” feeling in their skin.

  • Microneedling treatments can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, stretch marks, and rosacea.

  • As microneedling treatments are minimally invasive, they are also safe for all skin types. Whether you are fair-skinned or dark, and even if you experience chronic breakouts, properly conducted microchanneling treatments will not result in hyperpigmentation, keloid scars, or other lasting negative side effects.

  • 1 Treatment = $300

    Package of 4 Treatments = $1000

  • Though neocollagenesis (the production of new collagen) can take several weeks, it is not abnormal to notice an improvement in the quality and appearance of your skin within the first 24 hours. After 2-3 treatments a thicker more robust, collagen filled cellular matrix will produce more consistent and noticeable improvement. And 6 or more treatments may be recommended for scarring, laxity and wrinkles.

  • The number of microneedling treatments you may need will depend on the severity of your skin concerns and the results you are hoping to achieve. Most people require a minimum of 4 sessions, spaced about 4 weeks apart. Acne scarring takes an average of 4-6 treatments for best results. A series may be repeated as many times as necessary until the desired effects are achieved. Your skincare specialist can help you determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs. To maximize your results, it’s important to follow all post-treatment recommendations, such as avoiding sun exposure and using high-quality skincare products daily. With consistent care and attention, you should begin to see visible improvements in the overall health and appearance of your skin after just two or three sessions.

  • Depending on the skin condition and the patient’s age, a microneedling procedure might last 30-75 minutes.

  • The number of microneedling sessions you need to get to achieve the results you want will vary based on your individual skin condition. Early on in the aging process or for any other issue, 3-4 treatments may be enough to get rid of undesirable fine lines and start to diminish deep wrinkles; while 4-6 treatments are recommended for acne scars. As long as there is enough time between sessions, patients can have as many treatments as they need to get the youthful appearance brought on by microneedling.

    Since each person will experience different results, premium serums and skin care products should be used to improve results across the board.

    Following treatment, there may be slight redness, a sense of tight skin, and a brief light sunburn. These irritations progressively subside within a few hours, and in the days after the procedure, one will start to observe a smoothing, lightening, and tightening effect on the skin. The most noticeable difference may be seen up to 15 to 20 days following treatment since the body will be manufacturing collagen in response to the microneedling procedure.

  • ProCell’s Microchannel Delivery Serum contains bone marrow-derived growth factors in a hyaluronic acid suspension. Both of these elements are naturally-occurring in the human body. There are no human, animal, or plant cells, DNA, blood, or any other foreign substances. The product has been used safely and effectively for over a decade.

  • Yes, we recommend using Hyaluronic Acid after microneedling. We give out a small vial after your treatment as part of your take home after-care package.

  • We recommend avoiding makeup for 24 hours post procedure if possible.

  • Yes, Microneedling can be used on the neck! The most common areas to have Microneedling treatments include:

    • Face, Neck

    • Décolletage

    • Scalp for hair loss

    • Top of hands

    • Stretch Marks

    • Arms

  • No, microneedling is a safe and effective treatment option that has been shown to have few side effects or risks. Since it uses very fine needles to create tiny punctures in the outer layers of skin, there is little to no risk of damage or scarring. However, it’s important to follow all post-treatment recommendations (including avoiding sun exposure) and only work with qualified skincare specialists who use hygienic practices. With proper care and attention, you can rest assured that microneedling will help you achieve your desired results without causing any lasting damage. 

  • If you have any underlying condition that significantly impairs your immune system, it is a good idea to avoid microneedling. Examples include but are not limited to active radiation or chemotherapy, uncontrolled diabetes, chronic inflammatory skin disease, Accutane in the past 2 years, hemophilia or similar bleeding disorder. Anyone taking certain medications, such as blood thinners or immunosuppressants should avoid microneedling. Also anyone with stainless steel allergies should not do this treatment. We also discourage treatments for those who are pregnant or nursing.

  • Microneedling stimulates the body to release peptides, cytokines and growth factors that induce collagen production. As you get older, the stem cells that produce these vital proteins lose efficacy and decline in population, so microneedling alone becomes less and less effective. Because of premature aging, the Microchannel Delivery Serum and the post care Cellular Renewal Serum and Healing Accelerator Serum become more vital to improvement. Use of the ProCell aftercare products ensure the skin continuously receives potent, robust, pristine peptides, cytokines and growth factors even in between treatments. Think of diet and exercise – microneedling without serums is like exercising without dieting. Results can be good with microneedling only, but are significantly amplified with serums.

  • Microneedling should be part of your skin health plan. Collagen levels need to be stimulated in order to maintain results. We recommend maintenance treatments once you have reached your desired goal.

Procell Hair Restoration

  • Most clients find it very tolerable — a light pressure or tingling. The ProCell device is designed to create channels without dragging or tearing the skin, which keeps discomfort and irritation low.

  • No. The serum contains growth factors and cytokines produced by lab-cultured bone-marrow stem cells — not the cells themselves. It’s applied topically and absorbed through the microchannels.

  • Because hair grows in cycles, changes are gradual. Many people notice less shedding first, with fuller growth becoming visible over several months of treatment. Results vary from person to person.

  • Men and women with early to moderate thinning, where follicles are still present. It may not be right during pregnancy, with an active scalp infection or inflammatory scalp condition, or with certain medical histories — we’ll review this at your consultation.

  • Often, yes. Let us know about any medications or topicals you use and we’ll advise on timing. Many clients also add acupuncture to support circulation and stress.

  • ProCell is a cosmetic service and isn’t covered by insurance. We’ll give you clear pricing at your consultation.

Dermaplaning

  • Yes, slowly. You will see growth in about 3-6 weeks

  • Nope! - vellus hair (or baby hair) has no pigment, the color will not change, nor the texture.  It will be the same fine-textured hair.

  • Every 4-6 weeks

  • The answer is No! It is quick, pain-free and can be done during any time of the year.

  • Dermaplaning is $125

Mermaid Facial

  • NO! It’s complicated…

    Salmon sperm DNA, more accurately called "polynucleotides" or “PDRN”, are tiny fragments of DNA extracted from salmon sperm. The amazing benefits in skincare treatments is simply because the structure of salmon DNA closely resembles human DNA. This amazing finding over 20 years ago has allowed PDRN to effectively stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and promote tissue repair when injected into the skin, essentially acting as a cellular messenger to rejuvenate the skin cells; this is why it's often considered an anti-aging treatment. 

  • SKIN BOOSTERS are the #2 “Most Requested Aesthetic Treatment” behind neurotoxin (Botox, Xeomin, Dysport, Jeuveau) treatments. 

    Skin Boosters are more than popular in the aesthetic world! These are products based on un-crosslinked HA with micronutrients that can reduce not only the causes of skin aging but also its effects by deeply stimulating the skin to recreate firmness, hydration, elasticity, and brightness for targeted skin areas and concerns. Like our Radiesse and Sculptra friends, skin boosters are often referred to as “physiological Biostimulators” because of their role in restoring specific cellular functions, improving overall skin quality.

  • They have been in the medical field for 20+ YEARS for the effective treatment of:

    Wounds
    Burns
    Post-Surgical Incisions
    Scar Prevention and Improvemen

  • Key Benefits of the Mermaid Facial:

    DNA cell repair and regeneration of new healthy skin
    Improves skin tightening & brightening
    Improve & retain skin hydration
    Stimulation of collagen
    Improvement of elastin
    Improved skin Barrier & protection  
    Fine line and wrinkle reduction
    Hair restoration

  • The complete Mermaid Facial is $500. You are getting 5 of the best products and a full face treatment! It’s a steal!

    We also offer a package of 3 for $1350

    Bacio (Lips) stand alone is $175

    Light Eyes stand alone is $175

    Combo of Bacio (lips) and Light Eyes is $275

PRX Derm Perfexion

  • We begin by applying a mild cleanser to prepare the skin after which it is rinsed and dried.

    The PRX Derm Perfexion is then applied to sections of the face and massaged in. This process is repeated 2-3 times, depending on client needs. The best part of PRX Derm Perfexion is that it can be used ANYWHERE on the body — face, neck, décolletage, stomach, stretch marks, etc.

    Once all the areas are treated, a moisturizer and sunblock is applied. Your face will already feel tighter!

  • We recommend using the PRX-T33 Moisturizing Face Cream for dry skin on Day 1. This helps to restore the hydro-lipid film.

    Day 2 Morning -Apply Moisturizing Face Cream, then a our Sunblock with Hyaluronic Acid.

    Day 2 Evening – Apply Facial Smoothing Fluid, wait 30 minutes, and then apply the Moisturizing Face Cream.

    Moisturizing with a Facial Serum twice a day would be ideal. (At least half an hour before any other products).

    These products are to moisturize and acidify the skin in order to promote deeper collagen and elastic production for longer lasting results.

    Repeat the serum application every night for 3 – 5 nights following each TCA treatment.

  • Some results of the PRX Derm Perfexion are immediate, such as a tightening and brightening effect. This will also continue to improve further over the coming weeks. 

  • To get the best longer lasting results, a series of 5 PRX Derm Perfexion treatments is ideal. So plan on once a week for five weeks.

    At the end of your series you should see significant tightening with a long lasting glow that lasts 6-12 months.

    We’re recommending a touch up treatment once every 2-4 months.

  • Unlike other peels, the answer is No! It is quick, pain-free and can be done during any time of the year.

  • Series of 5 weekly treatments for $1400.

    *Cost may vary based on the specific treatment needed and the individual needs of the patient. All costs as well as any possible financing options will be discussed prior to treatment during a complimentary consultation at Saco River Acupuncture & Wellness.