Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture involves the gentle insertion of very thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system, improve circulation, regulate the stress response, and support the body's natural healing processes. It is a core treatment at South Florida TCM, used for pain, stress, sleep, hormonal concerns, and much more.

Acupuncture needles are much finer than the needles used for injections — most people feel little to nothing on insertion. Some points may produce a mild dull, achy, or tingling sensation as the needle makes contact with the acupuncture point. This is normal and typically brief. Most patients find sessions deeply relaxing.

Yes. When performed by a licensed, trained practitioner, acupuncture is considered very safe. Dr. Lucy uses single-use, sterile disposable needles exclusively. Serious adverse effects are extremely rare. If you have a bleeding disorder, pacemaker, or are pregnant, let Dr. Lucy know before treatment so the approach can be adjusted appropriately.

Sessions begin with a conversation about your current symptoms, health history, sleep, stress, and goals. Dr. Lucy will then select a set of acupuncture points — often on the arms, legs, or torso — and the needles are retained for 20–40 minutes while you rest. Most people feel relaxed, warm, or even sleepy during and after treatment.

The introductory visit is typically 60–75 minutes, including the intake consultation and first treatment. Follow-up acupuncture sessions are generally 45–60 minutes. Treatment planning, needle placement, and retention time all factor into the overall visit length.

It depends on your condition, how long you've had it, and how your body responds. Acute issues may resolve in just a few visits. Chronic conditions typically require 6–10 sessions before a sustained shift is noticeable, with ongoing maintenance often recommended. Dr. Lucy will give you an honest estimate after the intake.

Yes — please eat a light meal or snack within two hours before your visit. Coming in on an empty stomach can increase the chance of light-headedness. Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, and strenuous exercise immediately before treatment.

South Florida TCM provides care for a wide range of conditions including neuropathy and nerve pain, arthritis and joint pain, chronic pain and fatigue, sleep disorders and insomnia, stress and anxiety, women's health concerns (hormonal imbalances, fertility, menopause), and men's health concerns (ED, low libido, prostate issues, male infertility, chronic fatigue). If you don't see your condition listed, contact us — we may still be able to help.

Yes — acupuncture is frequently used alongside conventional medical care, psychiatric medications, prescribed pain management, and other treatments. Please bring a list of your current medications and supplements to your first visit so Dr. Lucy can tailor treatment appropriately and safely. She does not ask you to stop any existing care.

Chronic pain is one of the most studied applications of acupuncture. It may help by stimulating the nervous system, reducing inflammatory signaling, and improving circulation to affected areas. Dr. Lucy treats back pain, neck pain, headaches, fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain, and arthritic pain as part of a whole-person care approach.

Acupuncture has demonstrated effects on the autonomic nervous system — promoting the parasympathetic (calm, rest-and-digest) state and reducing cortisol. It is used at South Florida TCM for generalized anxiety, panic, stress, burnout, and the physical symptoms stress produces. It works well alongside therapy, medication, and other mental health support.

Acupuncture can be safe during pregnancy when performed by a trained practitioner who understands pregnancy-specific protocols. Certain acupuncture points are contraindicated during pregnancy and are avoided. Please inform Dr. Lucy if you are pregnant or trying to conceive so your treatment plan can be adjusted accordingly.

The conditions listed represent common presentations seen in practice, but TCM can address a much broader range of concerns. If you have a condition that isn't listed — digestive issues, headaches, skin conditions, autoimmune support, or general wellness goals — contact us to discuss whether care at South Florida TCM is appropriate for you.

Dr. Lucy (Huayu) Brooks, DAOM, is a Doctor of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine, NCCAOM Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, and Licensed Acupuncture Physician in the State of Florida. She has over 20 years of therapeutic massage experience that informs her whole-body, body-aware treatment approach. Her practice is rooted in identifying and addressing the root cause of each patient's condition.

South Florida TCM is located at 9776 S Military Trail, Suite D2-3, Boynton Beach, FL 33436. The clinic serves patients from Boynton Beach and throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties.

Yes. All visits at South Florida TCM are individual, one-on-one appointments with Dr. Lucy. There are no group treatment rooms. This is especially important for patients discussing sensitive health concerns — everything is confidential and approached with full discretion.

No. South Florida TCM does not participate in the Medicare program. If Medicare is your primary coverage, we recommend calling us to discuss out-of-pocket options or to verify whether your secondary insurance may apply.

If you're dealing with a chronic condition, pain, hormonal concerns, stress, sleep issues, or men's or women's health concerns that haven't responded fully to conventional care — or if you simply want a more personalized, root-cause approach to your health — South Florida TCM may be exactly what you're looking for. The $49 introductory visit is designed to let you experience care with no long-term commitment required.