Being a woman with large, natural breasts on a small frame, I get all kinds of neck, upper back, and shoulder pains - some that radiate down to my fingers. For the past couple of days, I had been experiencing horrible pain on my right side, which is new because I typically get that type of pain on my left shoulder. I was desperate to find a solution. My friends recommended I try acupuncture. Immediately I started doing research on Yelp and found Dan Poreda, and I'm extremely happy I did. I reached out to him at 10 AM and by 12 PM had an appointment scheduled for right after work. Being my first time, I was a bit nervous as I didn't know what to expect, however, reading all of his positive reviews made me feel at ease. I was even more comfortable upon meeting him. He is very nice and gentle and knows what he's doing. I explained to him where I had pain/discomfort, he then explained the process and walked out of the room so that I could get comfortable and lay on the bed. As soon as he came back in, he started to work his magic. As he was feeling the areas I highlighted, it's like he was speaking directly with my muscles - he just knew what to do. The massage was a bit rough at times but honestly, that's how I prefer them (I'm not into the "relaxing" massages). When it was time to insert the needles, he explained exactly what he was doing and kept checking in on me to measure my comfort level. After the session, I felt amazing, so relaxed and pain had subsided. I highly recommend and will return as needed, which I'm anticipating will be in a month. By the way, I see I'm not the only one who immediately thought he looks like a taller, slimmer version of Justin Timberlake lol read more

This is only my 3rd review on Yelp so a business has to really impress or fall extremely short for me to care enough to leave a review. Fortunately my experience with Daniel was the first. One of the initial things I noticed was how at ease I felt when I first arrived. I typically have severe anxiety especially the first visit of a medical treatment so the fact I had just power walked almost two miles in crowds of people on my way to an initial acupuncture visit and felt as relaxed as I did is some kinda amazing. Second when it comes to acupuncture I'm a little particular to say the least. I typically don't feel like I benefit unless the practitioner is a "sadist" Every therapist is unique but in the past I've either had seemingly pointless needles (te he) in my skin or aggressive full on radiating shockwaves. This was an entirely new experience. I had stated my preference on releasing qi which tends to be slightly more painful than basic acu points. His technic was very different from any past treatments. I was able to feel the circulation from points he was working on just without the pain I typically associate with stronger needling. To the contrary it was actually such a relaxing session by the end I was definitely asleep Another first for me. The downside to being half comatose is trying to pay. I was impressed I was able to still do math in that state but apparently my bills had stuck together and I wasn't paying (te he) attention. When I came back from the restroom he let me know I had accidentally given him too much and returned the $100 I had overpaid. All in all I highly recommend to anyone looking for quality acupuncture treatment and I feel like returning money is proof of character. Something I hold in high regard especially when I'm trusting that person with my health. read more

I am very glad I found this place. I have much pain and issues with my neck and shoulders and I have tried many procedures, nerve blocks, injections, PT, etc. with little relief. The treatment Dan provides is very promising - after only one session on my neck, I got much improvement and relief. I highly recommend this place - it's clean, relaxing and above all, Dan is extremely experienced and he really cares. read more

4.5 stars! Kind and warm healing had of Dan was addictive. I also had a shoulder pain and lost motion of my arm to shoulder like Diana H. My post experience wasn't the same as her experience unfortunately but Dan's smooth but to the point tui na massage was very comforting and relaxing. I had a lot of knots and he was going deep but not painful and took all my knots. TheTempur-Pedic like soft bed and a doughnut pillow for my face took to even more relaxing state in a humble but clean and organized room (see my photo). His knowledge of herbal medicine helped to ease my situation. His great care to his client is limitless. I agreed with Diana H. about Dan. He could be a twin brother to Justin Timberlake. read more

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Dan is the best acupuncturist. I have tried acupuncture with many acupuncturists in both China and the US, and still, Dan is the best among them. I run a lot and sometimes don't stretch enough, so I always make appointments with Dan to keep myself away from injury while increasing my mileage. It has been really helpful every time I train for a marathon. I would recommend Dan to every athlete. read more

I found this place on yelp and I'm glad I did! I'm back home visiting my mom and somehow linked my neck and shoulder. The pain was unbearable. Dan right away said that he could take care of it. He was able to find the spots and used needles, massage and cupping. An hour later I was able to move my neck again. My only regret is that he's not open on sundays! There's still a slight pinch and I would have loved one more session with him before flying back to CA. Can't recommend him enough! Thanks again Dan. You are appreciated. read more

So, I had been having severe shoulder pain for several weeks. Doctor's did not know what was wrong and were only able to prescribe me different NSAIDs and strong pain medications. Someone suggested acupuncture. Fortunately, I found a Groupon deal and decided to try it out. I was able to book an appointment with Dan via text and see him that same day (very quick and efficient way to book an appointment!). We started right away. I struggled to get myself on the table because my shoulder pain was just unbearable. I was very weary and nervous that massage/acupuncture may worsen the pain. Dan started with the Tui na massage, getting knots out (which felt very relaxing). Then, he started with the needles. I didn't feel anything as far as penetration. But, I did start to feel a dullness radiating in certain areas where the needles were. He told me that it was normal. Nothing painful. He then put a heating device over the shoulder and left the room. I focused on breathing and relaxation. When Dan returned, he removed the needles and proceeded with more gentle massages and then we were done. I wasn't quite convinced that I'd feel much better, but he assured me that I may not need anymore sessions. He did suggest that if the a pain has not fully subsided then to return in a couple of days. I felt extremely relaxed and renewed after leaving the facility. I don't usually write reviews.... But, this felt like a miracle and merits a review!! It is now the morning after my session and I feel 95% better. Full range of motion with no pain! Also, Dan looks a lot like Justin Timberlake :). Nice plus! I highly recommend acupuncture here! I'm a strong believer now! read more

I had a session with Dan and he was extremely patient with questions and easy going. I was apprehensive about acupuncture (since google told me I could bleed, have an infection and die)! But google is my bff and enemy all at the same time, because I did google this place before I bought a deal that I saw. I'm glad I came-- it was for some pain in my shoulder, neck and upper back from an accident I had months before. The tui-Na massage took out a LOT from me since I just took the pain but I really did feel things circulating and opening up and my pain and soreness that I felt for months prior was reason enough to put up with the strong massage. I think the oil that is used has some very soothing scent and effect that cooled it. I was definitely sore the next morning but by the afternoon, the pain was gone and I really did feel refreshed in that area. As for acupuncture, it does NOT hurt. Especially if you are used to having frustrating pain in the area, its a different kind of warm sensation that increases both belief and comfort. Things were definitely changing in that area instantaneously. It's been one week and my area is not nearly as tight and knotted as before- and the pangs of pain have not come back. I'm still not able to sleep on my right side, but he suggested that I not be a LIFE LONG recipient of acupuncture but rather come when I feel something feels off, and maybe need to do it 3 more times total IF I felt like it was necessary. He was not pushy but rather, very professional, answered all my questions, and mosssst importantly on that hot summer day, increased the A/C for me. I actually fell alseep when we're given a 20-minute period to lay with pins in-- the level of comfort and calmness my body was feeling was great. I'm definitely a new believer in acupuncture! I definitely recommend this place! Although its not extremely large (actually it's very small), it is still comfortable and very professional. Plus, if you're in a mood for a celebrity sighting and score a two-in-one deal... Dan looks like Justin Timberlake in real life haha! I will be back if I think insurance will cover it! You should definitely check it out. read more

I know, I know another five stars I'm "handing out?" It might seem as if I've been generous with my five stars lately, handing out more than New York Police traffic officers hand out parking tickets. But, I have been going to Dan Poreda at Center Acupuncture for over a year now and I'm just now writing a review and giving the center five stars!!! I first started going to the Center when they were located on Broadway. The new location is a farther hike for me uptown but I'm sure the bike lane doesn't mind. The ambiance is painted in neutral and muted green colors, it's impeccably clean, soft sounds music the smell of tranquility fill the air. Spices and herbs in glass jars line the wall behind the counter while tea and water are at the other side to enjoy while waiting. There are two rooms in which the sessions take place, both with windows and natural light. Dan is knowledgeable, patient and has a good energy about him. He takes his time to check in with my file and with my current state each time I receive a treatment. I truly appreciate each hour spent and really look forward to my time of healing. The after effects are like coming out of a sweet savasana and I love the way my body is affected by this natural healing. It's pretty SWEET! read more

Dan Poreda really knows how to relieve tension in my shoulder/neck area! I go for the Acupunture & Tui Na Massage combo. Warning: for me, the massage is pretty painful but necessary to relax the muscle. That being said, I was gently lulled to sleep during my treatments. He does not push for you to return immediately. In fact, he kindly sends you on your way and you return when needed. (I've only had to return once after about a year = treatment about once a year.) Center Acupunture is a calming environment set with dim lighting and calming music. The space has a waiting area, and 2 separate treatment rooms. (Bathrooms are located down the hallway.) Both times that I've received treatment, I left feeling zen! Highly recommend! Have and will return as needed. read more

Dan is patient, kind, mellow, laid-back and very talented. His acupuncture work is precise and works well for me. I have been to many different practitioners but the experience with Dan is exactly what I need: simple, direct, helpful, with a heat lamp & nice inoffensive world music playing. I am always more relaxed, serene and in less pain from my various ailments after a session with him. Bravo to Dan and Center Acupuncture! read more

Could not be more impressed and grateful! This was my first experience with acupuncture to alleviate lower back pain and Dan's treatment worked wonders to return me to daily life.  In addition to his skill, most remarkable was Dan's knowledge and passion regarding Chinese Medicine. He answered all my questions with enthusiasm and professionalism. It's rare and beautiful to find someone with a clear purpose, meaning, and overall joy for what they do.  To Dan, many thank you's.  To Yelp Readers, look no further- Center of Acupuncture is the right choice for you. read more

I'm just going to come out and say it - Dan Poreda's hands have magical, otherworldly powers. In all seriousness though, I really feel that Dan embodies the mind-body-spirit connection of Eastern Medicine. He has an incredibly healing energy about him, and even though he speaks minimally and asks very few questions, he still seems to intuitively know what should be done. The facility is small and simple (only two treatment rooms and a small waiting area, with the bathroom down the hallway) but it's clean and absolutely sufficient. Appointments are booked online through their website, which I actually prefer to over-the-phone because I like to be able to see all of the available time slots within a range of several days & select the one that works best, rather than blindly scheduling through a receptionist. Center Acupuncture offers really great deals from time-to-time through group deal sites like Living Social, Lifebooker, etc. which is how I've gotten to go, but they also accept insurance (assuming your insurance is better than mine). read more

First things first: I HIGHLY recommend this establishment. I always wanted to try acupuncture but was skeptical of whether or not it really worked. I also didn't try it because it was expensive and I knew that if I liked the first treatment, I most likely would not be able to continue because of the prohibitive costs. When I saw the promotional offer on Bloomspot (great discount site for upscale services, such as spa treatments, etc.) I decided to bite the bullet and give it a shot. Not only was it a terrific deal, the photos of the office looked wonderful and I was able to read about the doctor on the website so I check his qualifications. I made my appointment for a few weeks later and I've been going to Center Acupuncture ever since. It was such a remarkable change. I felt better after my first appointment and although it has not "cured" my back problem I feel so much better. The office is very clean and has a soothing, relaxing atmosphere. Dan Poreda is a personable, highly qualified doctor and I am really happy that I decided to go to this practice. I go regularly and I am seeing results! read more

I happened upon Dan and Center Acupuncture through a Living Social deal. I'm so glad I did. I have Occipital Neuralgia and needed someone who understood and focused on releasing the pain. Dan not only knows what he's doing, he made me feel like he was invested in his work and in releasing the negative chi from my body. Leaving the office (which has the most calming and peaceful atmosphere) I felt better than I had in weeks. I can't wait to go back. read more

Dan is a caring and knowledgeable professional. I felt he was interested in my situation/ problem and took the time to listen and treat me with caring concern. I heartily recommend him. read more

Dan made me feel comfortable straight away and answered any questions I had. I wanted acupuncture for dealing with stress. It was a relaxing experience for me. I didn't notice the benefits till later that night. I basically felt a gradual sense of returning to peace within my body - and felt 1000 times better!!! Thank you Dan. read more

I have been under the care of Dan Poreda for decades for all my sports physiology requirements and he has provided spot on treatment. He possesses a gentle hand with a keen skill set to correct the balance within. He has a pure understanding being an active athlete as well. read more

The best acupuncturist and masseuse ever. No joke. Dan is very knowledgeable and professional. Traditional Chinese Acupuncturists generally cause pain in order to heal, but Dan is very considerate, precise, and knows how to heal without allowing the needle punctures to cause any pain. He's also very savvy with herbal medicines. read more

I have gone for acupuncture and found pain relief but not as great as the treatment from Dan,,I find my pain alleviated and feel much better Very professional!! read more

Very helpful, knowledgeable and intuitive. I actually found him with Yelp, and he was in my vicinity, and he lived up to all that had been said by previous patients. In addition, his appointments are always on time, and the location perfect. Easy to book appointments with the app his office uses. Highly recommended. read more

Dan is a wonderful acupuncturist. I've been seeing him for the past 2 months and will eagerly continue to come for treatments. He has been able to treat a long-term, undiagnosed stomach ailment I've suffered that Western medicine doctors have neither diagnosed nor offered possible treatment options for. My condition is continually improving, faster than ever, as a result of his care and herbal remedies he's provided. He is gentle and skillful with the needle; I barely feel them for the most part. Also, he performs the Tui Na massage on my back and shoulders (which is a bit painful, but relieves tension and tends to improve my mood). Each time I come back, he asks how I'm feeling, about my symptoms, and articulates the underlying physical issues that could be behind my symptoms. Additionally, the office has a warm and relaxing ambience with herbal aromas and soft music :) read more

I have been going to Dan Poredo for about a year now and he is a wonderful person and Acupuncturist. He is compassionate, attentive, and very knowledgeable. It is a very calming environment and I always feel so relaxed after the treatments. I enjoy all my sessions and look forward to it. He has a very calm demeanor and is easy to talk to and a great listener. I feel so relaxed after the treatments that I often have fallen asleep in the room. He is also knowledgeable about herbal remedies and has prescribed some for me. Highly recommend. read more

Excellent & Dan is very knowledgeable, The atmosphere is very relaxing, and I had great results pretty much immediately. If your looking for acupuncture I would recommend this place. read more

Dan is a fantastic practitioner. His office is welcoming and his presence is warm, calming, and professional. I have chronic lower back/hip pain and discomfort. I've seen doctors, physical therapy, medication... but nothing has provided sustainable relief. I've had 4 appointments with Dan so far and have had a very positive experience. He is attentive, attentive,knowledgable, gentle, and thoughtful. He has used several modalities: acupuncture, cupping, and massage- each has been extremely effective and I'm feeling much better. I am thrilled to have found him and I'll continue going. I would certainly recommend Dan to anyone looking for a skillful doctor! read more

Dan is absolutely amazing. When I first discovered him my lower back was a total mess, my left knee was numb, and i was in constant pain. I could barely walk. I was literally crooked and leaning to my right. After my first session my knee numbness and pain began dissipating. By my third session it was gone. I've been getting treatment for five months and only had one lower back flare up since i started. Previously i was aggravating my back at least once a month. I have a physically demanding job and I couldn't deal with the constant back pain i once had. Dan is always welcoming and hospitable. The atmosphere is his office is totally relaxing and puts me at ease. I have and will recommended Dan to anyone dealing with chronic and or nagging pain. I always look forward for my next visit. read more

I've been a loyal client of Dr. Dan ( as I call him) for 5 Years. He was the first person to ever do Acupunture on my body. To be honest, he will be the only person to do Acupunture on me. He's kind, patient, professional, and incredibly well educated on the body and its kinesiology. As a dancer and fitness trainer, there is nothing more rewarding than to have someone treat your body right. Thank goodness I found him. He's freaking outstanding! read more

More a 3.5... Purchased a deal for myself and for my mom. I have never done acupuncture before, so i wasnt sure what to expect. But after the session, i felt really relaxed and extremely tired...my lower back did feel better, but not much has happened to my calves..Since i only did 1 session of acupuncture and tui na..i cant say its good yet...we'll just have to see.. A bit difficult to book reservation, but once you have an account set up, it was easy breezy. I wish the available times were also available during the weekends as well. But i guess Weekdays are ok. The location is pretty easy to find. But if you have an appointment at 12:30PM, do expect to wait outside for Dan. read more

I admit I was terrified to try it But they made me feel relaxed by talking and explaining. I would recommend to people seeking alternatives to pills. read more

Years later.. Dan never disappoints! He's always had a super tailored regimen for me and very accommodating for last minute sessions when needed. Thank you!! read more

Dan Poreda is a knowledgable, adept, intuitive healer and practitioner. I opted for the Tui Na with acupuncture and I'm so glad I did. The massage was deep and strooonnnnng and so necessary to ease all the knots in my shoulders and neck. New York can do a number on you. Dan helps subtract them. The acupuncture was conversely stimulating and calming - and painless. The smell of Chinese herbs and essential oils was delish. Dan really knows his stuff and he has a great practice. Highly recommended. read more

I have been using acupuncture for years to relieve pain from a bad back and hip. Needed a new acupuncturist in NYC and found Dan. Got an appointment with very little lead time, was seen on time and he spent more than the full hour with me. The treatment was very comprehensive after he listened well to my history and current issues. A week later and my pain level has dropped from a 6 to a level 1. I was not aware of his new patient deal but it was immediately offered up. In addition he is a well traveled and interesting guy to talk to which i like to do when being treated. Dan is my new go to acupuncturist. can't say enough positive things about the experience and its outcomes... read more

I came here on a deal I purchased through DealFind for 2 Tui-Na Massages. I went to see Liza for a tui-na massage - it was 45 mins. I had never had a Tui Na massage before - it's like a chair massage but lying down on a table if that makes sense. It was decent. I have not been treated by Dan but I met him when I came in and he seemed very nice. I have one more session left on my voucher so I'll definitely be back for at least one more massage. I didn't feel a big difference after my first massage, it was pleasant and relaxing though, but you probably need to go for a few sessions before you notice a difference. The office space was clean and organized. The location was convenient, they have an easy to use online booking system and they had later hours so I was able to go after work. read more

This is an excellent clinic and Dan is very caring and approachable. I met with Dan to discuss my knee pain. He was very thorough. The treatments have been very helpful read more

I booked an appointment 1 hour before going. Had a wonderful session of acupuncture and cupping. Dan is so warm and friendly. I highly recommend. read more

I've been going for Dan for many months now and haven't been disappointed once. His practice is very busy (speaks for him if you ask me!) however he takes the necessary time with his clients. He always asks what is going on right now, what symptoms I have, looks at my pulse, my tongue - so much more attention than any western doctor has given me in years!!! I ask a lot of questions and he always answers thoroughly. He is very knowledgeable, attentive and honest. I have the feeling that he really is interested in the patient and their health rather than getting them out fast and making a quick buck...something that got very rare with health care practitioners/doctors these days. When I leave his practice, I always feel very happy, relaxed and in peace . I can HIGHLY recommend him. read more

Dan Poreda is a great professional, the practice is a small place but very well managed, soft zen music with a light scent of "you're in good hands" and an amazing wall full of bottles with herbal remedies. He was on time for my appointment and the TuiNa massage + acupuncture session compeltely removed my persitent back pain & tensions. I knew acupuncture but was not an addict yet, this session allowed me to really feel the pain and the stress going away. I could easily use one session a week, the talent of this Doctor is really worth the price you pay. On top of that he isn't the type of person who speaks too much or too loud and this is a real plus when you just want to relax and be cured :-) No doubt about his practice and total trust in this man. read more

My Acupuncture session with Dan Poreda, the owner was quite effective and left me relieved. Not only is Dan very approachable, he is also very kind and gentle. His knowledge of activating various meridians and the effect it has on the body's energetic system is invaluable. After my session, I felt a wave of calmness, including a relief of the malady for which I wanted addressed. Dan's approach is more intuitive than textbook - I highly recommend him! read more

Center Acupuncture is an amazing place to go to for all of your acupuncture and Tui Na needs. Dan is very attentive and always does a wonderful job. I don't know what I'd do without him! I've seen him for things ranging from extreme anxiety to a hip flexor issue that was giving me a lot of trouble during marathon training. He is the best! read more

I had recently injured my back at the gym and was in the process of looking for a massage and I came across a Tui Na massage + acupuncture session promo and thought...what a better time than now to give it a try? I researched Dan and Center Acupuncture and found great results so I purchased & booked an apt. Unfortunately he was booked all of that day but I was able to get something the following day at 630p. My back rejoiced! Upon entering his Chelsea office, you are immediately calmed by everything- the wall of various neatly labelled herbs and the slight aromatic scent emitted by them. The carefully placed furniture in the room, the orange blossom tea leaves and tea pouches laid out on the table. Everything had a touch of meticulous care, and as Dan walks out of the therapy room, you can see his demeanor is just as pleasant, quiet, and calming. He greeted me and after the procedural paperwork stuff, led me into the therapy room. It was a very relaxing environment. A little dim, the soft whir of the fan, and soft scents make you want to just nap. He proceeded with the Tui Na massage which focuses more on pressure points, joints, and was a mixture of kneading, pulling, and stretching that made my lower back feel like heaven. Then he inserted the needles into the base of my neck, lower back & feet. Now this was my first acupuncture experience, so I was unsure of what to expect. To say you feel nothing is a lie...let's just say I don't feel pain, but I did feel a slight knick of something sharp against my skin that lasted for a split second. But my foot felt a sharper sensation for slightly longer, which I could have done without. Then he placed a heat lamp on my back and left me for ~30 mins or so. It felt SOOO good. I drifted in & out of sleep....and when he came back he rubbed some oils on my back and massaged it some more with some cool oils. After leaving I felt different from the many deep tissue massages I've gotten. Instead of feeling like a loose noodle, I felt a sense of calm, weightlessness, (some would call it high lol), and just a general sense of peace. I really enjoyed my 1st acupuncture session and plan to come back for a few more. He usually offers $180 for 3 sessions, which is not bad at all! read more