How does Acupuncture works?

Acupuncture is a safe, gentle and virtually pain free treatment that involves the insertion of small hair-thin needles into specific points along the body. It is a 2,000+ year old medicine that is well researched with more fascinating discoveries being made daily.

Acupuncture has a multitude of effects on different body systems, most prominently the autonomic nervous system, circulatory, and musculoskeletal systems.

Many key acupuncture points are located in areas with higher concentrations of superficial nerves, blood vessels, and neuromuscular attachments. Needling at these acupoints increases blood flow, releases endogenous endorphins (our body’s natural painkillers), and helps the nervous system transition from a sympathetic state (fight or flight) to a parasympathetic state (rest, relax, digest).

Most people experience a deep sense of relaxation during treatments and leave with an elevated sense of calm and well-being.

How many treatments will I need?

This is highly individualized based off each person’s unique constitution and presentation of symptoms. As a general rule, chronic issues may take longer to treat than more recent acute issues. I typically like to see new patients consistently for about 5-6 treatments to establish 1) how your body responds to acupuncture and my style of treatments, and 2) to see what we can accomplish within this introductory period. We can then re-evaluate and determine whether more consistent treatments are needed or if a more maintenance-based schedule is appropriate.

Although you may feel the effects of acupuncture after your first visit, I often let patients know it is not a one-time quick fix therapy. The results you see from acupuncture are cumulative and you will most likely experience subtle effective changes over time rather than an immediate fix of all symptoms at once. When practiced regularly, acupuncture is a medicine that can keep your body pain free, balanced, and healthy in order to prevent illness or imbalances in the future.

What should I wear to an acupuncture session?

With every acupuncture treatment, I will need access from at least the elbows down to the hands, and knees down to the feet. Depending on if bodywork is incorporated or if specific areas of pain are being treated, I may also need access to the abdomen, back, shoulder, and hip regions.

With that being said, wear comfortable clothing that you can feel relaxed in. I always provide gowns and shorts if your clothing does not allow access to these areas as well as ample draping for your comfort level.

Can I have acupuncture alongside conventional medical treatment?

Yes, acupuncture works well alongside Western medicine and can be part of an integrative approach to your health. If you’re under medical care or taking medication, please let me know so I can tailor treatment accordingly.