Acupuncture in San Francisco
Licensed acupuncturists in Cow Hollow treating pain, injury, stress, sleep and women's health. Sports-focused, and here for everyone.
Rated 5.0 on GoogleLicensed acupuncturists
- Performed by
- California-licensed acupuncturists
- Commonly used for
- Pain, injury, stress, sleep and women's health
- First visit
- 60 minutes with assessment, $225
- Payment
- HSA and FSA cards accepted
What our patients say
5.0 on Google from 92 reviews
I would strongly (strongly!) recommend Acupuncture for Athletics for both athletes and non-athletes alike. Not only does Andrew help with injury recovery, pain management, and stress relief, but he creates a relaxing and positive environment that enhances the work that he does and leads you to feel better both physically and mentally after each visit. And beyond acupuncture and massage, Andrew goes the extra mile to provide guidance on how to address specific pain-points and injuries, or to simply ensure that you are feeling and performing your best. Again, I can't recommend Acupuncture for Athletics enough!
I was introduced to Andrew by a friend who dubbed him as nothing short of magical. After experiencing his expertise firsthand, I couldn't agree more. Andrew's mastery of the human body and its intricacies truly feels like a kind of magic. I've been to other specialists for my chronic upper back and neck pain, but Andrew is different. He focuses on treating the actual problem, not just masking the symptoms. For the first time, I walked out of an acupuncture session and went back to exercising without feeling any pain. It was a game-changer. I feel as if I've been given a brand new back. Honestly, I never thought a life without back pain was possible until now. While I was also working with Andew some other health issues came up that couldn’t be diagnosed by western medicine. His thoughtful and holistic approach immediately made me feel understood and valued. Throughout our sessions, he would patiently explain the various points he was working on or the sensations I was experiencing, shedding light on what was going on internally within my body. Thanks to him, I now have a deeper appreciation for how imbalances in one area can send ripples throughout the entire system. He was able to find the root cause, guiding me slowly but surely on the path to recovery. I feel blessed to have met Andrew, he really has changed my life and I’m grateful for that.
Andrew is a cornerstone of my care team. He successfully unwinds my ills before they can become chronic problems.
Andrew is amazing! Very caring and concerned about your health and well being. He genuinely is a very kind person.
I could not recommend Andrew enough! He has so much knowledge on the human body and can figure out quickly what areas need work. I went in with major back pain that kept me from lifting weights or running, and after a few sessions I am pain free.
Andrew is fantastic! He is knowledgeable and provides specialized treatment for my chronic nerve pain. I highly recommend him.
Andrew treated me over a period of about two years for hip and shoulder problems, and he was tremendously helpful. I was impressed with his knowledge and skill, not to mention wonderful “bedside manner” and especially his enthusiasm for staying current in his field.
Andrew is a fantastic alternative and addition to physical therapy. He quickly understands your condition and treats it effectively.
I came to Andrew after nearly six excruciating months of not being able to run. I had a seemingly minor Achilles tendon injury that simply refused to heal, defying every modality I tried. I hoped Andrew, a specialist in sports injuries, could break the deadlock. The simple answer is that in three visits, I was running again, hardly able to believe my good fortune. The more complicated answer runs deeper. Andrew’s work doesn’t just address physical injury; he works on spiritual and emotional injury and stress too. I didn’t realize that my physical injury was bound up with emotional trauma, but he did, and he figured out how to disentangle them so the healing process could start. The process can be painful; emotional injuries that have lodged in your body have to work their way out through muscle and bone, like a physical illness. But it’s also both profound and unexpected. As another of Andrew’s clients said, he is a true healer.
Andrew Castellanos has helped my Achilles tendinosis and tendinitis with acupuncture, not only getting the swelling down, but also massaging the area after. His therapeutic work has enabled me to continue dancing at a high level without having to take a break, so I’m able to dance with injury due to the therapeutic work that Andrew does.
As a professional dancer, I rely heavily on Andrew throughout the performance season to literally fix me in order to get me back onstage. I have chronic problems with my knee and my shoulder, and the combination of acupuncture with electric stimulation and heat has been tremendously helpful. Andrew only needs five minutes to find exactly where he needs to work, and the results are fantastic. His acupuncture work is also gentle, and doesn’t leave me sore the next day — in fact, it’s one of the only therapies I feel comfortable receiving right before a show. Andrew does great deep tissue work as well, and he is very responsive and attentive as a therapist. I’d highly recommend him to dancers, athletes and non-dancers alike.
In our career it is very important to stay physically healthy, because our dance career is very short. We rehearse, work out every single day, and very often, because of the physical pressure from practicing so hard, we get injuries and surgery. My story is about my back, foot and wrist. I joined San Francisco Ballet a year ago. The first day of work, during ballet class, I hurt my back. I have had problems before with my wrist, and sadly, later on with the tough season, my foot got hurt. Luckily, I was recommended to Andrew Castellanos. I started with a few visits a month, and quickly saw results, so I made sure I finished my treatments. Thanks to Andrew, I was able to finish my successful season here. Now I have to spread the word…
Sports-focused, but here for everyone.
Our name says athletes, and treating injuries is what we're known for. But our treatment rooms also see desk-job neck pain, headaches, stress, poor sleep, pregnancy discomfort and back pain that has hung around for years. If you want to hurt less and feel more like yourself, you're in the right place.
Acupuncture for Athletics is a small clinic at 2920 Webster Street with three California-licensed acupuncturists. Athletes looking for injury care can start with our sports acupuncture clinic in San Francisco. This page covers acupuncture more broadly: what it is, what it may help, what a session feels like, and what it costs.
Why Work with Us
We're not just for athletes, but for everyone wanting more movement and less pain in their life.
Built around your life
We start with how you move, then treat the injury with a plan to get you back to training, work and everyday life.
Excellence in one visit
Acupuncture, dry needling, cupping, cold laser and sports massage from the same licensed team, so you're not bouncing between clinics.
Trusted by professionals
Andrew and team have treated athletes for USF, the San Francisco Ballet, LINES Ballet and MLB spring training. Our patients rate us 5.0 on Google.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is part of traditional Chinese medicine. A licensed practitioner places very fine, sterile needles at specific points on the body. In traditional terms, this restores the healthy flow of qi, the body's vital energy.
In Western terms, researchers think needling stimulates nerves, muscles and connective tissue, which may change how the nervous system processes pain and encourage the release of the body's own pain-relieving chemicals.
A session isn't only needles. Depending on what you need, we may add cupping, moxibustion (gentle heat from the dried herb mugwort), hands-on massage, Chinese herbal formulas, and practical advice on diet, sleep and lifestyle.
In California, acupuncturists are licensed by the state's Acupuncture Board, and all three of our practitioners hold a California license.
What acupuncture may help with
The research is strongest for pain, and studies have also found benefits for migraine, anxiety and some women's health concerns.
Pain
A 2018 analysis of 39 trials and more than 20,000 patients found acupuncture worked better than both sham and no acupuncture for chronic back and neck pain, osteoarthritis, chronic headache and shoulder pain. The American College of Physicians lists acupuncture among the non-drug treatments to try first for chronic low back pain.
Injuries
Sprains, strains, tendon pain and recovery after surgery are the core of what we do. We usually combine acupuncture with hands-on work and a plan to get you moving again. We also have guides to acupuncture for sciatica and plantar fasciitis and heel pain.
Headaches and migraine
A 2016 Cochrane review of 22 trials found acupuncture reduced how often people had migraines, and that it may work about as well as preventive medication, with fewer side effects.
Stress and sleep
Many people feel calm, even sleepy, on the table. A 2018 review of 13 trials found encouraging results for anxiety with few side effects. Ali often adds scalp and ear acupuncture when stress or sleep is part of the picture.
Women's health
Suzanne Lange, DACM, has advanced training in women's health, fertility, pregnancy and postpartum care. A Cochrane review of back and pelvic pain in pregnancy included studies in which acupuncture eased pelvic pain more than usual prenatal care, and NCCIH reports that acupuncture reduced hot flashes compared with no acupuncture. Always tell us if you're pregnant or trying to conceive.
People also see us for
- Neck and shoulder tension from desk work
- Low back and hip pain
- Nerve pain and pinched nerves
- Recovery after orthopedic surgery
- Pregnancy and postpartum discomfort
- Digestive complaints
- Skin and hormonal concerns
Results vary from person to person, and we'll talk through what to expect at your first visit.
What a session feels like
Your first visit takes 60 minutes. Here's what happens, step by step.
Your history
We talk through your health, the problem that brought you in, and your sleep, stress and activity. We may also check your pulse and tongue, as traditional Chinese medicine does.
Assessment
For pain or injury, we look at how you move and test the muscles involved, so treatment targets the real source of the problem.
Treatment
The needles are hair-thin. You may feel a brief pinch, then a dull ache, tingling, warmth or heaviness. Then you rest, and plenty of people drift off.
Your plan
We'll talk about how often to come back and how many sessions we expect. That varies from person to person, and we'll check progress as we go.
Is acupuncture safe?
When it's done by a licensed practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, serious problems are rare. NCCIH notes that relatively few complications have been reported, and that the FDA requires acupuncture needles to be sterile and labeled for single use. The usual side effects are mild: some soreness, a small bruise, or feeling light-headed or tired for a while afterwards.
Tell us if you're pregnant, take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder or a pacemaker, or have any condition that affects healing. Eat something light beforehand and wear loose clothing.
How many sessions, and how long until it works?
It depends on the problem, how long you've had it and how your body responds. Some people notice a change after the first visit or two, especially with a recent injury. Problems that have built up over months or years usually need a longer course.
The research is encouraging on staying power. The 2018 pain analysis above found most of the benefit was still there a year after treatment, with only about a 15% drop.
We'll estimate how many sessions you may need after your first assessment and review progress as we go, rather than selling you a fixed package. If acupuncture isn't helping, we'll tell you.
A common pattern
- More frequent visits at first, while we settle pain
- Spaced further apart as you improve
- Occasional tune-ups if you want them, for a training block or a stressful season
Acupuncture and our other services
Acupuncture is the core of what we do, and it's often combined with these in the same visit.
Who'll treat you
Three California-licensed acupuncturists with very different strengths, from sports injuries to women's health and herbal medicine. Each of us trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and we may check your pulse and tongue as part of your assessment. Read more about our team to choose who fits you.
Andrew Castellanos
L.Ac, CST · Clinic owner
Sports injuries, post-surgical recovery and performance.
- Master's in TCM, Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine College, Berkeley
- 25+ years, including the San Francisco Ballet
Ali Hakimi
L.Ac
Stress, sleep, nerve conditions and classical herbal medicine.
- Seventh-generation practitioner of traditional medicine
- MS, Academy of Chinese Culture & Health Sciences (2017)
- Scalp and ear acupuncture for anxiety and insomnia
Suzanne Lange
DACM, L.Ac, CMT
Women's health, fertility, pregnancy and orthopedic care.
- Doctorate in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Japanese-style acupuncture and gentle bodywork
- Advanced study in facial rejuvenation and microneedling
How much does acupuncture cost?
A first visit is $225 for 60 minutes, including your assessment and treatment. Follow-ups are $195 for 45 minutes, and a 60-minute acupuncture and massage combination is $225. Fees in San Francisco range widely, from community clinics to private practices. Ours are for private sessions with a licensed acupuncturist.
Insurance & payment
We accept HSA and FSA cards, along with all credit cards. The IRS lists acupuncture as a qualifying medical expense in Publication 502, so it's generally eligible, but check with your plan administrator.
We're an out-of-network provider and don't bill insurance directly. After your visit we can give you a superbill, an itemized receipt with the codes insurers ask for, which you can submit yourself for possible reimbursement. Coverage depends on your plan, so ask your insurer whether you have out-of-network benefits for acupuncture.
Gift certificates are available, and a 24-hour cancellation policy applies.
Appointments
- 60-min initial acupuncture & assessment
- $225
- 45-min acupuncture follow-up
- $195
- 60-min acupuncture/massage combo
- $225
- 75-min acupuncture/massage combo
- $265
- 90-min acupuncture/massage combo
- $300
Acupuncture FAQ
How much does acupuncture cost in San Francisco?
At our clinic, a 60-minute first visit with assessment is $225, a 45-minute follow-up is $195, and a 60-minute acupuncture and massage combination is $225. We accept HSA and FSA cards and can provide a superbill for possible out-of-network reimbursement.
How long does acupuncture take to work?
Some people notice a difference after the first session or two, particularly with a recent injury, while long-standing problems usually take longer. Research on chronic pain shows that most of the benefit lasts a year after treatment. We'll estimate your timeline after your first assessment.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people find it far gentler than they expected. The needles are hair-thin, much finer than an injection needle. You may feel a brief pinch, then a dull ache, tingling or warmth, and many people relax enough to fall asleep.
Do you take insurance?
We accept HSA and FSA cards and all credit cards. We're an out-of-network provider and don't bill insurance directly, but we can give you a superbill to submit to your insurer for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Check with your plan about acupuncture coverage.
How often should I get acupuncture?
Visits are usually closer together at first, then spaced further apart as you improve. Some people come in for occasional tune-ups once the main problem has settled. We'll suggest a schedule after your first visit, based on your assessment.
Do you only treat athletes?
No. We're sports-focused, but we treat everyone, including people with neck and back pain, headaches, stress, sleep problems, and pregnancy or postpartum discomfort.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, when it's performed by a licensed acupuncturist using sterile, single-use needles. Serious complications are rare. Mild soreness, a small bruise or brief light-headedness are the most common side effects. Tell us if you're pregnant, take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder or pacemaker.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear loose clothing that rolls up above the knee and elbow, and eat something light beforehand. Bring a list of your medications and any imaging or notes from your doctor. Our building is gated, and your gate code is in your booking confirmation email.
Can I have acupuncture alongside medical treatment?
Yes. Acupuncture works alongside care from your doctor, physical therapist or other providers. Keep taking any prescribed medication, tell us what you're on, and see a physician for new, severe or unexplained symptoms.
Where is your acupuncture clinic in San Francisco?
We're at 2920 Webster Street, San Francisco, CA 94123, between Union and Filbert in Cow Hollow. Our licensed acupuncturists are Andrew Castellanos, who leads our sports and injury care, Suzanne Lange, who focuses on women's health, fertility and pregnancy, and Ali Hakimi, who adds scalp and ear acupuncture and classical herbal medicine. Read more about acupuncture in Cow Hollow.
Do you only see people who live in Cow Hollow?
Not at all. Our patients come from across the city: Pacific Heights, Presidio Heights, Russian Hill, North Beach, the Mission, SoMa, the Financial District, the Inner Sunset near UCSF and the Richmond. Some travel from Marin, Oakland and Berkeley too.
References
- Vickers AJ, et al. Acupuncture for chronic pain: update of an individual patient data meta-analysis. J Pain. 2018.
- Qaseem A, et al. Noninvasive treatments for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain: a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med. 2017.
- Linde K, et al. Acupuncture for the prevention of episodic migraine. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016.
- Amorim D, et al. Acupuncture and electroacupuncture for anxiety disorders: a systematic review of the clinical research. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2018.
- Liddle SD, Pennick V. Interventions for preventing and treating low-back and pelvic pain during pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Acupuncture: effectiveness and safety. NIH. 2022.
- Internal Revenue Service. Publication 502: Medical and dental expenses.
Ready to feel better?
Book your first acupuncture visit in Cow Hollow, or call us to ask whether acupuncture is right for you.
Visit us in Cow Hollow
2920 Webster Street, between Union and Filbert. A short walk from the Marina, Pacific Heights and the Presidio.
Address
Acupuncture for Athletics2920 Webster Street
San Francisco, CA 94123 Gate code: in your booking confirmation email
Hours
- Every day
- 7:30am – 9:00pm