What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Eastern Medicine that has been used for thousands of years. Small sterile needles are inserted into different points on the body to relieve pain, inflammation, and support health. Acupuncture is based on moving Qi through pathways in the body called meridians.

What acupuncture method do you use?

Outer Banks Acupuncture uses a palpation-based Japanese method derived from Kiiko Matsumoto. This method involves finding areas on the body that need release and using acupuncture needles that are smaller than traditional needles, which produce faster results.

Who will be performing my acupuncture treatment?

Tracey Hansel, MD, MPH, will be your acupuncturist at Outer Banks Acupuncture. Learn more about Dr. Hansel.

What conditions does acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture can benefit individuals who suffer from:

• Pain, especially chronic pain

• Migraines

• Tension-type headaches

• Neck pain 

• Knee pain from osteoarthritis 

• Muscle aches and pains 

• Chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting 

• Fibromyalgia

• Shoulder Pain 

• TMJ

• Anxiety

Where is Outer Banks Acupuncture?

2405 S Croatan Highway in Beautiful Nags Head, NC.

We are moving just a short distance! We will be at our new location above Outer Banks Dermatology starting Oct 19, 2026. The building is located on the east side of the highway, just south of the Christmas Mouse shop. Go in the main entrance on the side of the building and up the stairs. Call if you have any concerns about stairs (we have an alternate location) or trouble finding us.

Where do I park?

There is a large parking lot in front of the building.

What do I wear?

Comfort is key. For your acupuncture appointment, wear loose-fitting clothing or a short sleeve shirt and shorts. Numerous points on the arms and legs are addressed, so make sure those areas of the skin are accessible.

What should I expect?

During the first visit, we’ll spend about 15 minutes on a little paperwork, review your history, and address any of your concerns or questions. Then, you’ll get comfortable, relaxing on a table similar to a massage table. If lying flat is difficult for you, acupuncture treatment can be done while lying on your side or your stomach, or sitting up. The goal is to make the treatment relaxing, comfortable, and effective. An acupuncture session can last 45 minutes to one hour. For certain treatments, the practice of cupping may also take place.

Does acupuncture hurt?

This method of acupuncture uses smaller needles and doesn’t go deep, so sometimes people don’t even feel the acupuncture needles. Occasionally, you may feel a poke, but if it’s painful—and stays painful—let us know and it will be removed. If you choose to do ear acupuncture with gold needles, these semipermanent three-day needles specifically designed for the ears can feel more like a sting, but the sensation usually goes away after a few minutes.

How often do I need acupuncture?

The frequency of your acupuncture treatment varies based on your situation and needs. For simpler maladies, one visit could be enough. Many treatments require an occasional tune-up every few months. If you’re treating pain—especially chronic pain—more frequent visits (every two weeks) may be required. If treatments aren’t getting any results after two or three visits, we recommend stopping treatment or trying another acupuncturist.

What other services are available? 

Cupping and Auricular acupuncture are also available with full a acupuncture session or as a stand-alone treatment. Each requires about 20 minutes.

What is Auricular acupuncture?

Auricular acupuncture is using points on the ear to manage issues on the body. Regular acupuncture needles can be used. Semipermanent needles that remain in for three days may also be used.

What do you take for payment?

Outer Banks Acupuncture accepts cash, Zelle and credit cards. We only accept checks from local residents.