FAQ

What is Japanese Meridian Therapy?

Japanese Meridian Therapy is a classical style of acupuncture that emphasizes precise, gentle needling and detailed palpation diagnosis (pulse and abdominal assessment). It focuses on balancing the body’s overall meridian system (the “root”) while also addressing your specific symptoms (the “branch”). Needles are typically ultra-fine and inserted shallowly, making treatments comfortable for most people. We combine this with other East Asian tools such as moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, and manual therapy when appropriate.

Do you do “dry needling”?

Yes. Dry needling (also called trigger-point dry needling) is a technique that uses thin solid filament needles—the same type used in acupuncture—inserted into tight bands of muscle or myofascial trigger points to release tension, improve local blood flow, and reduce pain. It was developed primarily so physical therapists could use acupuncture needles within a Western neuromuscular and anatomical framework. In California, physical therapists are not permitted to perform dry needling.

Acupuncture, performed by licensed doctors of acupuncture, encompasses this technique within orthopedic and sports-medicine style treatments while simultaneously incorporating a holistic and traditional approach. Japanese Meridian Therapy adds precise pulse and palpation diagnosis, treats both the local issue and the body’s overall balance, and can include complementary tools such as moxibustion, cupping, and gua sha. The result is targeted soft-tissue needling for pain and performance, guided by a broader diagnostic framework. We regularly use this orthopedic/sports style of needling and find it especially effective for athletes and active people who want to recover from injury, reduce muscle tension, and optimize physical performance. Combining precise local needling with the systemic balancing of Japanese Meridian Therapy often produces stronger and longer-lasting results than trigger-point needling alone. This can be emphasized in either a shorter Standard session or a longer Holistic session, depending on your needs.

What conditions do you treat?

We commonly treat pain (back, neck, shoulder, knee, headaches/migraines), stress and anxiety, digestive issues, hormonal and menstrual concerns (including fertility support, PMS, menopause), sports recovery, TMJ, fibromyalgia-related symptoms, and various chronic or complex conditions. Acupuncture is also used for general wellness and stress reduction. Results vary by individual; we create a clear treatment plan after your initial evaluation.

Is acupuncture painful?

Most patients describe our methods as minimal to no pain at all. The needles are very thin (often thinner than a human hair) and insertion tends to be more shallow. You may feel a brief sensation or a dull ache at some points, but many people relax deeply or even fall asleep during treatment. We prioritize comfort and adjust as needed.

What should I expect at my first visit?

Your first visit includes an exam/evaluation, discussion of your goals, pulse and other traditional assessments, and your first treatment. Standard (30-minute) sessions focus on targeted needling for your main complaint. Holistic sessions (45 or 60 minutes) include a fuller evaluation and additional modalities. You’ll receive a clear, personalized treatment plan with recommended frequency—similar to how a physician outlines a care plan. No large packages or high-pressure commitments are required.

How long are sessions and what are the options?

Standard Acupuncture (30 minutes, from $55): Focused, efficient treatment, ideal for mild/moderate acute issues, flare-ups, or insurance-friendly visits.

Holistic Acupuncture (45 minutes $95 / 60 minutes $125): Deeper root-level care that may include moxa, cupping, gua sha, massage, e-stim, or herbs. The 60-minute option is the most comprehensive and treats both sides of the body. These feel more immersive and are well-suited for chronic or complex conditions.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on whether your condition is acute or chronic, your overall health, and how your body responds. Acute issues sometimes improve in a few sessions; chronic conditions usually benefit from a short series of treatments. After your evaluation we give you a straightforward recommendation for frequency and duration so you can decide what works for your schedule and budget.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. We work with most major insurance plans and actively aim to accept as many carriers as possible. The 30-minute Standard appointments are designed to work well with many HMO plans. Holistic sessions may involve more out-of-pocket cost depending on your benefits. Please contact the office (or the shared Peninsula Chiropractic scheduling line) with your insurance details so we can confirm coverage and estimated costs before your visit. HSA/FSA cards are generally accepted for eligible expenses.

How should I prepare for my appointment?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to arms, legs, and abdomen if possible. Eat a light meal beforehand (avoid arriving extremely hungry or overly full). Stay hydrated and try to avoid caffeine or alcohol right before your session. Bring a list of current medications/supplements and any relevant imaging or lab results. Arrive a few minutes early for paperwork if it’s your first visit.

Are there side effects?

Side effects are uncommon and usually mild. Some people feel relaxed or slightly drowsy afterward; a few experience temporary soreness or a small bruise at a needle site. Serious adverse events are rare when treatment is performed by a licensed practitioner. We review any relevant precautions during your intake.

Who will be treating me?

Dr. J. Dylan Webber, DACM, L.Ac., is the owner and primary practitioner. He is a board-certified licensed acupuncturist and Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (Pacific College of Health and Science). He specializes in Japanese Meridian Therapy and integrates it with other traditional East Asian methods. The clinic shares space and collaborates with Peninsula Chiropractic for seamless integrative care when beneficial.

Where are you located and how do I book?

We are located at 3065 Rosecrans Place, Suite 108, San Diego, CA 92110 (inside the shared Peninsula Chiropractic suite). Appointments are booked through the Jane App system linked on our site. Call or text the office at (619) 988-2013 for questions, insurance verification, or scheduling help.

What is your cancellation policy?

[Insert your exact policy here — e.g., “We request 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling to avoid a late-cancellation fee. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to change an appointment.”]Can I combine acupuncture with chiropractic or other services?

Yes. Because we share the suite with Peninsula Chiropractic, many patients receive coordinated care (acupuncture + chiropractic, soft-tissue work, etc.). We communicate as a team when it supports your goals. You can also book standalone acupuncture.