Acupuncture FAQ
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a form of East Asian medicine that uses very thin, sterile needles placed at specific points on the body to improve circulation, work with the nervous system, reduce inflammation, reduce pain, stimulate or relax hyper/hypotonic muscles, and release tight and painful fascia. Acupuncture treatments are individualized based on your symptoms, health history, and overall pattern of imbalance.
Treatment may also incorporate other techniques such as electrical stimulation, dry needling, cupping, gua sha, or manual therapy when appropriate.
What can acupuncture help with?
Acupuncture can be used to support a wide range of health concerns. Common reasons people seek treatment include:
Acute and chronic pain
Sports injuries and recovery
Muscle tension and trigger points
Post-surgical recovery
Women's health and menstrual concerns
Perimenopause and menopause support
Stress and sleep concerns
Headaches and migraines
Digestive concerns
General wellness, reduce anxiety and improve nervous system regulation
Your treatment plan is based on your individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people find acupuncture very relaxing. The needles are extremely thin, and insertion typically feels like a brief pinch or very little at all. You may experience sensations such as heaviness, warmth, tingling, or a mild ache around a needle. These sensations are generally considered normal during treatment.
What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?
Both acupuncture and dry needling involve inserting thin needles into the body, and there is considerable overlap in where the needles may be placed. Dry needling often targets muscles, trigger points, and areas of pain or tension. Acupuncture may also target these same areas, while using a broader approach based on the individual's symptoms, health history, and treatment goals.
The techniques are not as distinct as they are sometimes portrayed, and acupuncture does not necessarily involve the concept of "energy." Many acupuncturists use anatomical, neurological, and physiological approaches alongside traditional acupuncture principles.
In fact, acupuncturists often use acupuncture points locally for pain that have existed in the classical canon for thousands of years and are located on or near muscle insertions, areas of tendon, bands of fascia, joint hinges, or nerve bundles, i.e., what could be recognized as “trigger points” or “motor points.”
What is electrical stimulation?
Electrical stimulation, or e-stim, uses a very gentle electrical current applied through acupuncture needles. It can be used to stimulate muscles, support circulation, reduce pain, or enhance a treatment.
The sensation is usually a gentle tapping, pulsing, or contracting feeling. The intensity is adjusted to your comfort level.
What is cupping?
Cupping uses cups placed on the skin to create gentle suction. It may be used to address muscle tension, improve local circulation, and support recovery.
Cupping can leave temporary circular marks or discoloration on the skin. These typically fade within several days.
What is gua sha?
Gua sha is a traditional East Asian technique that uses a smooth tool to gently stimulate the skin and underlying tissues. It may be used to address muscle tension, pain, and areas of restricted tissue movement.
Temporary redness or discoloration can occur and generally resolves within a few days.
How long is an acupuncture appointment?
Your initial appointment includes time to discuss your health history, current concerns, and goals before treatment. Follow-up appointments generally allow time for assessment, treatment, and any additional therapies that may be appropriate.
How many treatments will I need?
The number and frequency of treatments depends on your condition, how long you have been experiencing it, your goals, and how your body responds to treatment. It is very common to “front load” at 1-2x week for 4 weeks and re-evaluate. The most important thing to note is that ACUPUNCTURE IS NOT A ONE AND DONE. You must discuss expectations with your acupuncturist.
Some people notice changes after one or a few treatments, while chronic or more complex conditions may benefit from a longer course of care. Your treatment plan can be adjusted as we see how you respond.
Can acupuncture be used after surgery?
Yes. Acupuncture may be incorporated into a recovery plan after orthopedic or plastic surgery when appropriate and with consideration for your surgeon's recommendations.
Treatment may also include gentle techniques such as manual therapy or other supportive modalities. For patients recovering from surgery, care is individualized based on the stage of healing and your medical team's instructions.
What should I do before my appointment?
Try to eat something beforehand rather than arriving on an empty stomach. Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the areas being treated, and stay reasonably hydrated.
It's also important to let me know about any medications, recent procedures, injuries, or significant changes in your health.
What should I expect after acupuncture?
Many people feel relaxed or calm after treatment. You may also notice temporary soreness, mild fatigue, or increased awareness of the treated area.
Because everyone's response is different, pay attention to how you feel after treatment and give your body some time to integrate the treatment.
Is acupuncture safe?
When performed by a properly trained and licensed practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture is generally considered safe. Minor effects such as temporary soreness, bruising, or light bleeding can occur.
Before treatment, I will review your health history and discuss any considerations that may affect your care.
Do I need to stop seeing my doctor or other healthcare providers?
No. Acupuncture can be used alongside conventional medical care and other forms of treatment. I encourage communication with your healthcare providers, particularly when you are recovering from surgery, managing a significant medical condition, or taking medications.
Acupuncture is not a substitute for necessary medical diagnosis or treatment.
Do you treat the same condition every time I come in?
Not necessarily. Your treatment may change from visit to visit depending on your symptoms, how your body is responding, and what we find during your assessment.
The goal is to treat you as an individual rather than simply treating a diagnosis or symptom.