Frequently Asked Questions

What does Archetype Acupuncture specialize in?

Archetype Acupuncture focuses on musculoskeletal, orthopedic, and sports-related conditions. Treatment is individualized and designed to improve pain, mobility, function, and recovery. Common areas treated include the back, neck, shoulders, hips, knees, and other joints, as well as sports and overuse injuries.

How many acupuncture treatments will I need?

The number of treatments varies depending on the nature of your condition, how long it has been present, and how your body responds to care.

As a general guideline:

  • Acute or recent conditions: 3–6 treatments

  • Chronic or long-standing conditions: 6–12 treatments or more

  • Complex injuries or post-surgical cases: may require a longer course of care

Many patients notice some improvement within the first few visits. Treatment frequency and duration are adjusted based on your response and goals.
There are no long-term contracts or required treatment packages.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your first visit includes a detailed review of your symptoms and health history, a focused assessment, and discussion of your goals.
Treatment usually begins at the first visit unless there is a medical reason to delay. A personalized treatment plan is created and adjusted over time based on your progress.

What does acupuncture feel like?

Most patients find acupuncture very comfortable. You may experience sensations such as a brief pinch, heaviness, warmth, tingling, or muscle twitching. These sensations are normal and usually short-lived. Many patients feel relaxed during and after treatment. Some techniques, such as myofascial trigger point acupuncture (sometimes referred to as dry needling), may feel more pronounced or intense for brief moments. These techniques are always performed within your comfort level, and you are encouraged to communicate at any time so treatment can be adjusted as needed.

What should I expect after treatment?

Common post-treatment experiences include reduced pain or tension, improved mobility, and a sense of relaxation or calm.
Some patients may experience mild soreness or temporary symptom changes that typically resolve within 24–48 hours.

How often will I need to come in?

Visit frequency depends on your condition and response to treatment.
Some patients benefit from once- or twice-weekly visits initially, with less frequent visits as symptoms improve. Recommendations are always individualized and reassessed regularly.

What should I wear to my appointment?

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing whenever possible, and try your best to avoid tight or restrictive clothing. Athletic wear works well.
Access to areas such as the arms, legs, hips, abdomen, or back may be needed depending on your condition. Proper draping is always used to ensure comfort and privacy.

Do you accept insurance?

Archetype Acupuncture is a private-pay practice. Payment is due at the time of service.
We accept Veterans Affairs (VA/TriWest) coverage with authorization.
For all other plans, we are considered out-of-network.

Do you accept Medicare?

Medicare provides limited acupuncture coverage in specific situations. However, our clinic is not set up to bill Medicare directly, and we do not submit claims to Medicare.
All services at Archetype Acupuncture are provided on a private-pay basis.

If I have Medicare, can I still receive treatment?

Yes. Patients with Medicare are welcome to receive care as private-pay patients.
If requested, we can provide a superbill for your records, which you may choose to submit to Medicare on your own. Reimbursement is not guaranteed, and all coverage determinations are made solely by Medicare.

Why don’t you bill Medicare directly?

Medicare acupuncture billing involves strict diagnosis criteria, visit limits, documentation requirements, and physician supervision. Our practice focuses on providing individualized care outside of those restrictions.

What is a superbill?

A superbill is an itemized receipt that includes information some insurance plans require if a patient chooses to submit a claim independently.
Providing a superbill does not guarantee reimbursement, and submission is the patient’s responsibility.

How much does treatment cost?

  • Initial Visit: $200

  • Follow-Up Visits: $150

Payment is due at the time of service.

For patients receiving care through the Veterans Affairs (VA), authorized acupuncture visits are covered by the VA and provided at no cost to the patient, in accordance with the VA referral and authorization on file. Services not authorized by the VA may be subject to standard private-pay fees.

Do you require a credit card on file?

Yes. A valid credit card is required to reserve all appointments.
For patients receiving care through the Veterans Affairs (VA), a credit card is still required to schedule appointments. While authorized VA visits are covered and provided at no cost to the patient, the card on file is used only to enforce our missed appointment and late cancellation policy. It will not be used for authorized treatment charges.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require at least 48 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment.
Late cancellations or missed appointments are charged the full appointment fee.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Appointments are scheduled online through our secure booking system here.
New patients will be asked to complete a pre-screening form prior to their first visit.

Where are you located?

Archetype Acupuncture is located at:
75-170 Hualalai Rd, Suite D212
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Still have questions?

If you have additional questions or would like help determining whether acupuncture is right for you, feel free to contact us:
📧 info@sunyunacupuncture.com
📞 (808) 638-4849 (text preferred for quickest response)