Frequently Asked Questions

  • Acupuncture is a system of medicine that has been practiced for over 3,000 years. It involves the gentle insertion of very fine, sterile needles at specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system, improve circulation, regulate hormones, and activate the body's own healing response. Modern research has confirmed what practitioners have observed for millennia: acupuncture influences the brain, nervous system, immune system, and musculature in measurable, meaningful ways.

  • Our core specialties are pelvic floor health, women’s health, and fertility— including conditions like vaginismus, vulvodynia, urinary incontinence, dyspareunia (painful sex), postpartum pelvic recovery, perimenopause, and menopause. We also treat chronic pain, migraines, neuropathy (including Peripheral Neuropathy), anxiety, insomnia, digestive conditions, long COVID, oncology support, and more. Our pediatric acupuncture program serves younger patients as well. If you're not sure whether we treat your condition, call us — we're always happy to discuss.

    • NoTox Facial Rejuvenation (a needle-based cosmetic alternative that lifts and tones naturally)

    • Far Infrared Ozone Sauna Therapy (the region's only ozone sauna — combining sauna heat with medical ozone for detoxification, weight loss, immune support, and chronic condition management), and ozone insufflation

    • Wellness Reset Lounge for restorative and regenerative recovery

    • Supplement dispensing through FullScript is available for patients who need targeted nutritional support.

  • Your first visit is a comprehensive intake — typically 75–90 minutes. Dr. Walder will take a detailed health history covering not just your primary concern but your full picture: sleep, energy, digestion, hormonal patterns, stress, and medical history. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, nothing is treated in isolation. After the intake, you'll receive your first acupuncture treatment. You'll leave with a clear understanding of your diagnosis, treatment plan, and what to expect going forward.

  • Clothing: Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is ideal. Many acupuncture points are located on the lower legs, forearms, and abdomen, so clothing that can be easily rolled up or moved aside is helpful. You will always be draped appropriately and your comfort and modesty are our priority.

    Food:  A light meal or snack 1–2 hours before your appointment is ideal. Coming in hungry can make you feel lightheaded during treatment, while a very heavy meal can make lying still uncomfortable. Drink water and stay hydrated.

    What to bring: Please bring any relevant medical records, lab work, imaging, or a list of current medications and supplements. If you've been seen by a specialist for your condition — a reproductive endocrinologist, pelvic floor PT, gynecologist — bring those notes if you have them. The more context Dr. Walder has, the more precisely she can tailor your treatment.

    Paperwork: New patient intake forms can be completed online through our Jane App booking portal before your appointment. Completing them in advance saves time and allows Dr. Walder to review your history before you arrive.

  • After your initial intake appointment (75–90 minutes), follow-up sessions are typically 50–60 minutes. Needles are retained for approximately 25–35 minutes while you rest comfortably on the treatment table.

  • Physicians may recommend acupuncture as a complementary therapy to help manage pain, reduce stress, and support overall wellness. It can provide a non-invasive treatment option that works alongside conventional medical care to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

    • Pain Management: Acupuncture can help reduce pain associated with conditions such as chronic back pain, arthritis, migraines, and postoperative recovery, particularly when conventional treatments have been ineffective or when minimizing medication use is preferred.

    • Holistic Care: By addressing both physical and emotional well-being, acupuncture aligns with a whole-person approach to healthcare and may complement traditional medical treatments.

    • Alternative Treatment Option: Acupuncture may be recommended when standard therapies are limited by allergies, side effects, contraindications, or other factors that make medications or procedures unsuitable.

    • Patient-Centered Care: For individuals seeking non-invasive, drug-free treatments, acupuncture can be incorporated into a personalized care plan that reflects their preferences and values.

    • Stress Reduction and Wellness: Acupuncture may promote relaxation, improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and support overall well-being, making it a useful tool for managing stress-related concerns.

  • This varies by condition and individual. Some patients notice a meaningful shift after their first or second session. For complex or long-standing conditions, change tends to be cumulative — building progressively over a course of treatment. Dr. Walder will give you a clear, honest timeline at your initial consultation based on your specific presentation.

  • You can book online 24/7 through our Jane App portal at spectrumacuwell.com, or call us directly at 301-565-2700. New patients are always welcome. If you'd like to speak with someone before booking to discuss whether we're the right fit for your needs, just give us a call.

  • We are an approved out-of-network provider for most major insurances. We do offer courtesy verification, or you can call your insurance plan directly to see what your individual benefits are. Some insurance plans include acupuncture benefits — particularly for pain management. Our team can provide you with a superbill (itemized receipt) that you can submit for out-of-network reimbursement if applicable. We accept all major credit cards, HSA, and FSA cards.