Commonly Asked Questions

At Nola Family Acupuncture, we know that exploring acupuncture or functional medicine for the first time may feel unfamiliar. This page is here to answer your questions and provide clarity, so you can feel confident and prepared as you take the next step on your health journey with us.

Restore Balance, Reclaim Your Health

Ready to take back your health? Our personalized, holistic approach combines acupuncture, nutrition, and functional medicine to uncover and address the root causes of your health challenges—not just the symptoms. Whether you’re dealing with pain, stress, digestive or hormonal imbalances, we’re here to guide you in restoring balance and reclaiming your vitality. Let us guide you in the journey back home to yourself!

Commonly Asked Questions

Acupuncture is a healing practice that has been used for over 2,000 years and has evolved into a comprehensive and holistic medical system. Rooted in ancient Chinese medicine, it involves the insertion of tiny, hair-thin needles into specific points along pathways called meridians, which regulate the body’s energy flow, or qi (pronounced “chee”). Stimulating these points helps increase circulation, restore balance, promote natural healing, and enhance overall well-being. Acupuncture can reduce inflammation, support immune function, balance hormones, and regulate neurotransmitters, offering a wide range of physical and emotional health benefits with every session.

Acupuncture has the potential to address a wide range of conditions, helping to alleviate symptoms, improve overall health, and, in some cases, heal or reverse conditions completely. In China, acupuncture is considered a primary form of healthcare and is used to treat nearly everything.

In 2003, the World Health Organization published a report based on clinical trials that found acupuncture effective for more than 100 syndromes and conditions. My own experience aligns with this: around 10% of people experience a ‘miraculous’ resolution of their symptoms after just one treatment. Another 10% may find they don’t respond to acupuncture. However, the vast majority—about 80%—notice steady, incremental improvement over the course of a treatment series.

No matter what you’re experiencing or the diagnosis you’ve been given, acupuncture is absolutely worth trying as a natural, holistic approach to improving your health.

Functional medicine is a personalized, wellness-focused approach to healthcare that seeks to address the root causes of illness and restore balance to the body. Unlike the traditional disease-based model, functional medicine treats the whole person by considering how various systems in the body interact and contribute to overall health.

This approach often includes a combination of advanced lab testing, nutritional and lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, herbal or nutritional supplements, and other natural therapies. By identifying and addressing underlying imbalances, functional medicine aims to resolve symptoms, prevent disease, and promote lasting health and vitality.

Yes. Most doctors run labs to check if something is out of range and approaching disease territory, which often leads to a recommendation for medication to bring it back into range—for example, high cholesterol. Functional labs, on the other hand, assess how well certain body systems are working compared to their ideal physiological function.

Since no one is perfect, functional labs often identify areas that could be improved to enhance how the body works and how the patient feels. A common scenario is when someone comes in with a long list of symptoms but is told by their doctor that their labs are “normal.” Yet, they don’t feel fine. This is often because their body systems aren’t functioning optimally.

The thyroid gland is a classic example. A patient’s TSH levels might appear normal, but they still experience symptoms of hypothyroidism. Functional labs dig deeper to evaluate how well the thyroid is actually functioning and identify imbalances. Once we have that information, we can work to restore the thyroid’s health and improve overall well-being.

Not always—it depends on the individual and their goals. Functional labs provide valuable insights by “looking under the hood” to identify which systems are challenged and by how much, helping to fine-tune the focus of treatment. For those who are data-driven or prefer a detailed understanding of what’s happening in their body, labs can be a critical tool for crafting and adhering to a protocol.

However, if resources are limited, I often recommend prioritizing treatment first. Many patients experience significant improvements through targeted therapies alone, and labs can always be added later if needed. For those seeking a cost-effective starting point, I recommend the ARL hair analysis as a baseline wellness test. At under $150, it offers valuable insights into mineral deficiencies, heavy metal buildup, and the function of key systems like the adrenals, thyroid, blood sugar, and more. And can help to craft a detailed and personalized supplement plan. 

In most cases, yes. Many people come to me with chronic or long-standing conditions, and I’ve found that combining acupuncture with nutritional supplements and herbal remedies often yields the quickest and most lasting results. Acupuncture works to balance and support your body during each session, while supplements and herbs provide consistent, daily support to address deficiencies, promote healing, and sustain progress between visits.

That said, recommendations are always tailored to your unique needs. For some patients, supplements may play a key role in their treatment plan, while others may benefit from focusing solely on acupuncture or lifestyle changes. My goal is to create a plan that aligns with your health goals and resources.

The number of treatments varies greatly depending on the severity and duration of your condition. Generally, the longer you’ve had an issue and the more severe it is, the more time it will take to see improvement.

For most patients, we start with a series of 6-8 weekly treatments. This allows the acupuncture to take effect and gives your body time to begin healing. After the initial series, we reassess your progress. If significant improvement is achieved, we gradually reduce the frequency to every other week, then every third week, and so on.

Patients who follow the recommended nutritional and herbal supplement plan often experience faster and more lasting results. The ultimate goal is to resolve your primary concerns and transition to monthly “tune-up” treatments for maintenance, combined with a long-term wellness plan to support your health.

The frequency of treatments depends on the severity of your condition. If you rate your condition as 8/10, 9/10, or 10/10 (with 10 being the most severe), I typically recommend coming twice a week. For conditions rated 7/10 or below, once a week is usually sufficient.

The goal is to achieve enough improvement during the initial treatment series that, upon reassessment, we can gradually reduce the frequency of your visits.

That depends on your goals—how good you want to feel and how healthy you want to be. Some people come in with specific concerns, like pain, and simply want to feel well enough to resume activities like picking up their kids or playing golf. Others view acupuncture as a long-term part of their healthcare and aim to optimize their health for longevity and to age well.

Once your primary concerns have improved, we typically recommend coming in once a month for a tune-up as part of your self-care routine. Patients who maintain regular treatments often report feeling more emotionally balanced, having increased energy, better digestion, improved sleep, and getting sick less frequently.

New patient appointments typically last about 1.5 hours, while follow-up appointments are approximately 1 hour. Most people spend an average of 30 minutes resting on the table during their acupuncture session, with the remaining time dedicated to the intake, assessment, and personalizing recommendations.

To make the most of your appointment, please arrive on time with your paperwork completed. For acupuncture, it’s helpful to have a light meal beforehand—not too full, but not on an empty stomach. Avoid wearing fragrances, as many people are sensitive to scents, and dress in loose, comfortable clothing. Most of the acupuncture points used are located between your elbows and hands, as well as your knees and feet, so easy access to these areas is ideal.

It varies from person to person. Some notice improvement after the very first treatment, while for others, it may take a few sessions. Many patients find their stride and experience noticeable progress by the third treatment, as the effects of acupuncture build over time.

Acupuncture is generally very safe, but you may feel a little sleepy or deeply relaxed after your treatment. Most people report positive “side effects” such as less stress, more energy, better sleep, reduced pain, and even weight loss. These are all signs that your body is responding well to the treatment and moving toward greater balance.

For detailed pricing information, please refer to the pricing section at the end of each service description. You can get started with a New Patient Appointment for just $250, which includes a comprehensive intake, assessment, and treatment.

If you decide to continue, you’ll have the option to choose from one of our recommended packages or join our membership program to save even more. If you decide not to proceed, you’ll still leave with valuable insights into your health and a personalized plan to help you move forward.

In Louisiana, most insurance companies do not cover acupuncture. However, some plans, particularly federal ones, have started to offer limited coverage in recent years. We recommend calling the member services number on the back of your insurance card and providing your Member ID to check if acupuncture is covered under your plan.

If you do have coverage, you would pay us at the time of service, and we’ll provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement directly to you.

We’re conveniently located in Metairie, near Lakeside Mall, on West Esplanade Avenue just off Severn, across from the CVS on the canal side.

We have a handful of designated parking spaces on the side of our building on N Hullen St, and parking is usually easy and hassle-free for our patients.

Our clinic is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and by appointment only.

A Holistic Approach to Balance And Lasting Health

Chinese medicine has been practiced for thousands of years as a holistic and comprehensive approach to care that treats the whole person rather than just the symptoms. By addressing the root causes of discomfort or disease, it balances the physical, emotional, and energetic aspects of the body. This natural, time-tested practice helps alleviate pain, reduce stress, and restore hormonal balance, offering a path to lasting health and well-being.

  • 1
    Root/ Branch Principle
  • 2
    Holism Principle
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    Excess/ Deficiency Principle
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    Principle of Yin/ Yang
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    Balance Emotional Body
  • 6
    Order of Healing

Our Clinic Address

Nola Family Acupuncture
3399 W Esplanade Ave. S
Suite B Metairie, LA 70003

Fiorella T.
20:39 11 Jan 24
I can not speak highly enough of Erin and her knowledge and expertise! Not only is acupuncture amazing - literally taking away a 3 day migraine - but her expansive knowledge and tools at her disposal allows her to pinpoint what is going on with your body and treat accordingly. She takes the time necessary with each patient so you always feel well taken care of. Seriously, whenever I or any of my kids come down with something, I don’t go to doctors, I go see Erin!
Carl Arredondo I.
20:55 07 Aug 20
After injuring my back for years during exercise and simple everyday movements, it usually takes a week to be able to walk normal and without being stiff. Recently, it wasn't happening in 7 days so I went to NOLA Family Acupuncture. After first visit, I noticed my back muscles relaxed, but still felt discomfort on the spine. After second visit along with Back Support CR pills, my back felt great. I was able to resume my normal Crossfit workouts. I am excited to continue future sessions.
Caitlyn W.
20:29 16 Jan 20
Megan is such a good acupuncturist! I have seen her for my shoulder pain and she has helped with lower my pain and increasing my range of motion. I love that she uses different modalities, as well as acupuncture. She has used Estim, scraping and cupping as well as needles!
April D.
22:25 13 Dec 19
Very compassionate, Erin goes out of her way to make you feel comfortable and always leaves the lines of communication open. She is the best!
Veronica L.
19:49 07 Oct 19
Erin is incredibly knowledgeable and not only can she speak to you about any physical pain your are having but also other ailments within the body too. She is kind, very nice to talk to and will make you feel comfortable. The space is welcoming and cozy as well. She also has a ton of different vitamins and supplements to suit many needs. Go to her, you won’t be disappointed!
Main R.
20:29 09 Mar 19
I’ve been a patient/client for several years now, my primary treatments are for pain management and overall well being. During these years I’ve experienced amazing results that have allowed me to benefit not only physically but emotionally and spiritually as well.Erin’s understanding of the connectedness of the body, spirt and mind and how to treat it has served me (and those around me) more than I can state in a google review.Marc
Jeannie M.
22:06 20 Jan 18
Been having low back and hip pain for several years. My doctor recently stopped my anti inflammatory medications due to new information that these meds could be harmful. A friend of mine recommended that I make an appointment to see Erin, since Erin had helped my friend out so much.From the moment I met Erin, I felt totally at ease with her. She took her time with me, asking me lots of questions about my health and putting my anxieties at ease about the acupuncture process (I had never had this done before). She started me on a holistic regiment of supplements and topical cream that have helped me tremendously! Between the acupuncture and the supplements, my pain level has been minimal. No need for any prescription meds. Thank you, Erin, for your incredible knowledge of your practice and supplements, your professional and welcoming approach, and the kindness you exhibit. You are an asset to our community!
Julie S.
23:52 16 Jan 17
Thank you, Erin, for making me feel like myself again. The realistic wellness plans really work. I've been to countless MD's, specialists, nutritionists, and acupuncturists, and got no help. I've spent years looking for relief for my condition. Within a week of following Erin's nutrition advice and supplement plan, I feel ten years younger. I look younger! I have energy and a new hopeful outlook. My pain has subsided. I've even lost a few pounds! Erin's superior knowledge is empowering!This is real healing!