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Acupuncture in Williamsburg

Acupuncture on woman's forehead
Acupuncture is a system of health and healing that originated in China over 3,000 years ago. Both Dr. Daniel Shaye and Dr. Jaren Panick are certified by the Virginia Board of Medicine to perform acupuncture. Together, they bring over 25 years of combined expertise to serve the Williamsburg community with personalized acupuncture care.
Optimizing Your Body’s Systems

There are Eastern and Western descriptions of how acupuncture works. Eastern views focus on the body’s energy (“chi”) and removing blockages or excesses so your body functions to its full potential. Western views focus on the nervous system, endocrine system, and blood flow. Both chiropractic care and acupuncture share the same purpose: optimizing nervous system function to help you alleviate problems and achieve peak performance.

NEW PATIENTS

Your Acupuncture Experience

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a smile and escorted to a comfortable room. We’ll provide supportive bolsters for comfort. After preparing the treatment areas, we’ll gently insert ultra-fine needles about the thickness of a human hair into precise points relevant to your needs. You’ll then relax for approximately 15 minutes while we dim the lights, with soothing music in the background.

Many patients report feeling deeply calm and relaxed afterward. Some describe greater mental clarity, as if the world appears in brighter color. We recommend avoiding major mental or physical exertion immediately after your appointment to allow your body to fully integrate the treatment.

Evidence-Based Treatment

At least 10,000 peer-reviewed research articles on acupuncture have been published in recognized scientific journals to date, with the number continuing to grow steadily each year. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes acupuncture as effective for musculoskeletal pain (low back, neck, knee, shoulder, plantar fasciitis), neurological conditions (migraines, headaches), digestive disorders, stress and anxiety, arthritic conditions, fertility support – and more.

Dr. Shaye performing acupuncture

Traditional and Needle-free Options

The needles used in acupuncture are solid, sterile, disposable filaments about the same size as a human hair. Acupuncture needles are so fine, you could fit 6-10 into the bore of an injection needle. Many patients don’t even feel when an acupuncture needle is inserted. When appropriate, we also offer non-needle methods including acupressure.

Acupuncture and Chiropractic: Better Together

We see tremendous success combining acupuncture with chiropractic care – particularly for low back pain, neck pain, headaches, and extremity (foot/ankle/knee/wrist) problems. This integrated approach often accelerates recovery. For example, patients with vertigo benefit from chiropractic adjustments for neck alignment while acupuncture addresses accompanying stress and anxiety as well as pain. When patients remain open to both modalities, we can provide truly integrated care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will acupuncture hurt?

Most patients experience little to no discomfort. The needles are solid and about the thickness of a human hair; you could fit 4-6 acupuncture needles into one injection needle. With many points, you might not feel the insertion at all.

How long does a typical acupuncture session last?

Your first visit takes about an hour including evaluation and your first treatment. Follow-up appointments last about 30 minutes, with needles in place for approximately 15 minutes.

How many sessions might I need and how often?

It depends on your condition. Typically, we recommend 6 to 9 sessions over 2 to 3 weeks before evaluating progress based on function and pain levels.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your first visit begins with a smile, not a clipboard. We’ll discuss your health history, goals, and expectations, then perform your evaluation and first treatment—all within your first hour.

How should I prepare for my acupuncture appointment?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to treatment areas. Avoid major exams or strenuous activity immediately after your appointment, as some patients feel deeply relaxed.

Do you accept insurance or offer payment options?

Yes. We accept insurance (some plans like Blue Cross Blue Shield cover acupuncture), HSA/FSA cards, and self-pay. We’ll file your insurance and offer flexible options for uninsured patients.

Insurance and Payment Options

We recommend care based on what you need—not just what insurance covers. Performance Chiropractic accepts both insurance and self-pay options. Some plans, such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, may cover acupuncture. We’ll file your insurance and help you understand your coverage. We also accept HSA and FSA payments and offer flexible financial options for uninsured and under-insured patients.

Contact Us

Book your appointment today, and connect to your true potential!
Schedule Your First Visit

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Acupuncture Williamsburg, James City County VA | (757) 229-4161