HealthSpan Services · Rochester, NY
Medical Acupuncture
A Natural Approach to Pain Relief, Healing & Whole-Person Wellness
Restore Balance. Relieve Pain. Improve Your Well-Being.
At Rochester HealthSpan Medicine, we combine modern medical knowledge with the time-tested practice of acupuncture to offer a personalized, non-surgical approach to managing pain, improving function, and supporting overall well-being.
No Membership Required · Adults 18+
No doctor referral necessary. No insurance necessary.
First consultation + treatment: $145*
60 minutes · See treatment prices
Your physician
Physician-Provided Care
Our Medical Acupuncture services are provided by Dr. Carl Covey a triple board certified physician and over 24 years of clinical experience, trained in medical acupuncture. He integrates evidence-informed techniques with a comprehensive understanding of your health.
At Rochester HealthSpan Medicine, Medical Acupuncture and Auricular Acupuncture can be incorporated into a personalized, physician-guided treatment plan to complement conventional medical care.
Understanding your treatment
What Is Medical Acupuncture?
Medical Acupuncture
Medical Acupuncture is a therapeutic procedure that involves the gentle insertion of very thin, sterile, single-use needles into specific points on the body.
Medical Acupuncture incorporates modern knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and neuroscience with the concept of natural body energy flow.
Auricular Acupuncture
Auricular Acupuncture, also known as ear acupuncture, is a specialized form of Medical Acupuncture that involves stimulating specific points on the outer ear using very fine, sterile needles. The ear contains a network of sensory nerves connected to the central nervous system, and stimulation of these points may influence pain-processing pathways and autonomic nervous system activity.
Potential Benefits of Auricular Acupuncture
Auricular Acupuncture may help manage chronic pain, muscle tension, headaches, stress, and anxiety-related symptoms while promoting relaxation and overall well-being. Research suggests potential benefits for certain pain conditions, although evidence for many other uses remains limited.
Safety & Considerations
Auricular Acupuncture is generally well tolerated, with possible temporary tenderness, redness, bruising, or mild discomfort. Rare complications include infection or inflammation of the ear cartilage. Patients with bleeding disorders, those taking blood thinners, or those with active ear infections or skin conditions should inform their physician before treatment. Results vary, and multiple sessions may be recommended based on individual response.
How Does Medical Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture stimulates sensory nerves and activates complex responses involving the nervous system and local tissues.
Research suggests several potential mechanisms:
Pain Modulation
Influences pathways involved in pain signaling and may stimulate the release of naturally occurring pain-modulating substances, including endorphins.
Muscle Relaxation
May help reduce muscle tension and discomfort.
Nervous System Regulation
May influence autonomic nervous system activity and support relaxation.
Local Tissue Response
Needle stimulation may affect local circulation and biochemical signaling.
Improved Function
By reducing pain and discomfort, acupuncture may help patients participate more comfortably in daily activities and rehabilitation.
Individual responses vary, and acupuncture is not a substitute for medical evaluation or necessary conventional treatment.
Benefits of Medical Acupuncture
Targeted Relief. Whole-Person Care.
Chronic Pain Management
May help reduce symptoms associated with persistent neck pain, back pain, and certain chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Joint Pain & Osteoarthritis
May provide modest pain relief and functional improvement for some individuals, particularly those with knee osteoarthritis.
Headaches & Migraines
May help reduce the frequency of tension-type headaches and migraines when incorporated into an individualized treatment plan.
Muscle Tension & Myofascial Pain
May help relieve localized muscular discomfort, stiffness, and trigger-point-related pain.
Stress & Relaxation
Some patients experience improved relaxation and reduced perceived stress following acupuncture. Evidence for treating anxiety disorders specifically remains less established.
Support for Overall Well-Being
May complement exercise, physical therapy, Lifestyle Medicine, and other conventional treatments as part of a comprehensive care plan.
Your appointment
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Personalized Evaluation
Your physician reviews your medical history, symptoms, treatment goals, and any potential contraindications to determine whether acupuncture is appropriate for you.
Individualized Treatment
Very thin, sterile needles are gently placed at selected acupuncture points based on your clinical needs. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, although temporary tingling, warmth, or a dull aching sensation may occur.
Relaxation & Therapeutic Response
Medical Acupuncture sterile needles typically remain in place for approximately 15–30 minutes while you rest comfortably. The overall appointment may take longer.
Progress & Follow-Up
Your response is reassessed over time. Some patients notice improvement after an initial session, while others benefit from a series of treatments. Results are not guaranteed.
Transparent Pricing. Personalized Care.
Our goal is to make physician-provided Medical Acupuncture accessible through straightforward, self-pay pricing.
Rochester HealthSpan Medicine members enjoy 20% savings on Medical Acupuncture packages.
| Appointment or package | Non-member | Member |
|---|---|---|
| Initial consultation + treatment60 minutes | $145* | $116* |
| Follow-up treatment30 minutes | $75* | $60* |
| 5-treatment package | $300*$60 per treatment | $240*$48 per treatment |
| 10-treatment package | $525*$52.50 per treatment | $420*$42 per treatment |
*Prices are subject to change. Package sessions must be used within 12 months of purchase. Ask which visits are included in a package and review the package terms before purchasing. A package is not a promise of a particular result.
Package pricing allows patients to pursue a planned series of treatments when clinically appropriate.
Call to Schedule: 585-662-5510Important Considerations & Safety
Medical Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a properly trained healthcare professional using sterile, single-use needles.
However, it may not be appropriate for everyone.
Potential Side Effects
Temporary soreness, minor bleeding, bruising, lightheadedness, or fatigue may occur. Rare but serious complications, such as infection or injury to internal structures, are possible.
Tell Your Physician If You:
- Take anticoagulant medications or have a bleeding disorder.
- Are pregnant or may be pregnant.
- Have an implanted electronic device, such as a pacemaker, especially if electrical stimulation is being considered.
- Have a compromised immune system or an active infection.
- Have a history of fainting or significant needle sensitivity.
Important: Medical Acupuncture is complementary care. It should not delay the evaluation of new, severe, unexplained, or worsening symptoms. Treatment recommendations depend on your individual medical history and clinical assessment.
Why Choose Rochester HealthSpan Medicine?
Physician-Provided Care
Medical Acupuncture delivered by a physician trained in medical acupuncture, with expertise in conventional medical diagnosis and treatment.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Your treatment is tailored to your symptoms, health history, and personal goals.
Integrative, Evidence-Informed Approach
We combine Medical Acupuncture with conventional medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, and other appropriate treatments.
Transparent Self-Pay Pricing
Straightforward treatment packages, without requiring a referral or insurance coverage.
Care Focused on Function & Quality of Life
Our goal is not simply to address symptoms, but to help you move more comfortably and maintain an active, fulfilling life.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Who performs Medical Acupuncture?
Medical Acupuncture is provided by Dr. Carl Covey, a triple board-certified physician trained in medical acupuncture. He integrates evidence-informed techniques with a comprehensive understanding of your health.
How does Auricular Acupuncture differ?
Auricular Acupuncture, also known as ear acupuncture, stimulates specific points on the outer ear. Medical Acupuncture may involve points elsewhere on the body. Your physician recommends an individualized approach.
Do I need a membership, referral, or insurance?
No membership, physician referral, or insurance is necessary. Services are available through self-pay pricing. Please see the treatment prices above and contact our team with billing questions.
What should I expect from treatment?
Your physician reviews your history, symptoms, and goals before treatment. Responses vary, and a series of sessions may be recommended. Acupuncture complements conventional medical care and results are not guaranteed.
Rochester, NY · Pittsford
Ready to Experience Medical Acupuncture?
Relieve Pain. Restore Function. Rediscover Comfort.
Discover whether Medical Acupuncture may be a valuable addition to your personalized health and wellness plan.
No doctor referral necessary. No insurance necessary.
Rochester HealthSpan Medicine
Formerly Athena Direct Primary Care & Lifestyle Medicine
30 Office Park Way, Pittsford, NY 14534
Prevent. Optimize. Thrive.
Medical disclaimer: Information on this page is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute individualized medical advice. Acupuncture benefits vary by condition and individual. A physician assessment is recommended to determine whether treatment is appropriate.