Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture FAQ | Sinew Center for Integrative Medicine | Minneapolis

How does acupuncture work?

Research has shown that acupuncture:

– Reduces inflammation

– Increases naturally-produced painkillers such as endorphins and other opioids

– Reduces cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone

– Regulates the autonomic nervous system to interfere with the way the brain processes pain

– Increases circulation and blood flow to the muscles, connective tissue, and organs

At Sinew Center, we use this science-backed foundation to build treatment plans that are tailored to your specific needs — whether you're coming in for pain, stress, hormonal support, or overall wellness.

How many treatments will I need?

Acupuncture results are cumulative — each treatment builds on the progress of the one before it. Think of it like working out: you may feel something after the first session, but lasting change takes consistency.

For most conditions, we recommend one treatment per week for 6–8 weeks. After that, we reassess together and begin spacing out your visits while maintaining your results. Chronic conditions that have been present for years may require more time, while acute issues may benefit from twice-weekly visits in the first week.

My goal at Sinew Center is always to get you feeling better as quickly as possible — and to maintain that

Do you take insurance?

We are currently a self-pay clinic and do not bill insurance directly. We anticipate credentialing with Medica, UnitedHealthcare, and the VA starting July 1, 2026, with additional partnerships to follow.

If you have out-of-network acupuncture benefits, we are happy to provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. We also accept HSA and FSA cards.

How should I prepare for my appointment?

1. Complete your intake paperwork online before your visit — you should receive a link by email after booking through Jane. If you don't see it, reach out and we'll resend it!

2. Eat a light snack about an hour before your appointment. Please don't come on an empty stomach.

3. Wear loose, comfortable clothing so that areas around your elbows and knees are easy to access if needed.

P4. lan to relax — most patients fall asleep on the table!

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture needles are incredibly thin — about the width of a human hair — and are nothing like the hypodermic needles used for injections. Some points may produce a subtle sensation, while others feel like nothing at all. Once the needles are placed, most patients at Sinew Center are sound asleep within minutes.

What is a superbill and can I get one?

Yes — we are happy to provide a superbill at every visit. A superbill is a detailed receipt designed specifically for insurance companies. It includes your diagnosis codes, treatment information, and all the documentation your insurer needs to process an out-of-network claim.

For example, a general acupuncture treatment at Sinew Center is $105. If your plan has a $45 acupuncture copay, your insurance may reimburse you the $60 difference — depending on your specific plan. Reimbursement is not guaranteed, but we'll make sure you leave with everything you need to submit your claim.

Can I use my FSA or HSA?

Yes! We gladly accept both Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) cards as payment. These are a great option for self-pay patients, as they allow you to use pre-tax dollars toward your care — and acupuncture qualifies.

What is parking like at Sinew Center?

Street parking is available directly in front of the clinic on Nicollet Ave, as well as along 48th Street. We're easy to get to and parking is typically very accessible.

Microneedling FAQs | Sinew Center for Integrative Medicine | Minneapolis

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that uses fine needles to create tiny micro-channels in the skin. This stimulates your body's natural collagen and elastin production, improving skin texture, tone, and firmness over time. At Sinew Center for Integrative Medicine in Minneapolis, we offer microneedling as part of our integrative approach to whole-body wellness and self-care.

What skin concerns does microneedling treat?

Microneedling is effective for a wide range of skin concerns, including:

– Fine lines and wrinkles

– Acne scars and surgical scars

– Uneven skin tone and texture

– Large pores

– Hyperpigmentation

– Dull or aging skin

– Stretch marks

-Hair thinning

Is microneedling painful?

Most patients find microneedling very tolerable. During your first appointment, we perform the treatment without numbing cream so we can see how your skin responds and how well you tolerate the sensation. Most patients describe it as a light vibration or mild pressure.

If you'd like to use numbing cream for future treatments, we'll send you home with numbing cream and ask that you apply it to clean skin 30 minutes before arriving to your appointment. If you misplace your cream, no worries — simply arrive 30 minutes early and we'll have you apply it here at the clinic before we begin.

How should I prepare for my microneedling appointment?

– Avoid retinol, exfoliants, and active skincare ingredients for at least 3 days before your appointment

– Come with clean skin — no makeup or SPF

– Stay out of direct sun and avoid tanning for at least one week prior

– Stay well hydrated in the days leading up to your treatment

– Let us know about any medications or skin conditions at the time of booking

How long does a microneedling appointment take?

A typical microneedling session at Sinew Center takes about 60–90 minutes and post-care instructions.

How many microneedling treatments will I need?

Most patients see noticeable results after 3–6 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. For maintenance, one treatment every 3–6 months is typically recommended. We'll create a personalized plan based on your skin goals during your first visit.

What is the recovery time after microneedling?

Microneedling has minimal downtime. You can expect redness and mild sensitivity for 24–48 hours after your treatment — similar to a mild sunburn. Most patients return to their normal routine the next day.

To support your skin's healing process, we'll send you home with a sample of hyaluronic acid as part of your post-treatment aftercare. We'll also provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to make sure your skin recovers beautifully and your results are maximized.

Can microneedling be combined with acupuncture?

Yes! At Sinew Center, we take an integrative approach to your care. We incorporate acupuncture needles into your microneedling treatment to enhance circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote overall skin vitality from the inside out — a perfect complement to the microneedling itself.

Please note that if you are using insurance for acupuncture, the combined microneedling and acupuncture treatment cannot be billed to your insurance plan. Payment for this service is due at the time of your appointment.

How do I book a microneedling appointment at Sinew Center?

You can book online directly through our website or contact us at:

📞 Call or Text: (612) 405-4649

📧 Email: anne@sinewcenter.com

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