Frequently Asked Questions

What is Acupuncture?

The most well-known traditional Chinese medical procedure, acupuncture is the practice of inserting sterilized, stainless-steel needles (often as fine as a human hair) into the body at specific points to relieve pain or treat a disease. Acupuncture points are areas of designated electrical sensitivity. Stimulation of these points from the insertion of needles produces natural chemicals in the body called endorphins, which help decrease your perception of pain. 

How Does Acupuncture Work?

The insertion of needles into specific points on the body can alter biochemical and physiological conditions in order to treat a wide variety of illnesses. Research suggests that the needling process, among other modalities used in acupuncture, may produce their complex effects in a wide variety of ways in the brain and the body. For example, stimulated nerve fibers are believed to transmit signals to the spinal cord and brain, activating parts of the central nervous system. The spinal cord and brain release certain hormones responsible for making us feel better overall and, more specifically, feel less pain. Acupuncture may regulate blood circulation and body temperature. It may also affect white blood cell activity (responsible for our immune function), reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and regulate blood sugar levels. In general, acupuncture appears to transmit its effects via electric, neurological, hormonal, lymphatic, and electromagnetic wave pathways. 

See our video on how acupuncture works: https://youtu.be/0iniEx5vv0Q

Do I Have to Believe in Acupuncture For it to Work? Is it Just a Placebo Effect?  

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), numerous studies suggest acupuncture is effective in pain management, as well as in managing other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, hot flashes, fatigue and mood. 

According to the UC San Diego Center for Integrative Medicine, clinical studies have shown acupuncture to be effective for ailments including allergies, depression, hypertension, tennis elbow, morning sickness, malposition of the fetus, and consequences of stroke. 

The NIH agrees that scientific research increasingly supports the use of acupuncture for treatment of conditions in addition to pain management, noting that the practice is often covered by insurance policies.

Also, acupuncture works on animals, and animals don’t have beliefs about acupuncture (yes, veterinary acupuncture exists – and is common for dogs and horses in particular!). 

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

The most common concern about acupuncture is the fear of the needles.  Acupuncture needles are hair-thin, stainless steel and disposable, and aren’t anything like needles that are used for immunizations or for drawing blood. You will feel the acupuncturists's fingers on your skin, and while you may feel some sensation as the needles are inserted, it’s not described as painful. Some sensations you may feel have been described as:

• Heavy—as if a weight is being placed on the area, but is perceived as calming, not oppressive.
• Achy—an initial achiness at the site of the needle, which typically dissipates in seconds.
• Electric—a quickly disappearing jolt related to the location of an acupuncture pressure point and the nerve that lies underneath it.
• Tingly—acupuncture points can cause tingling at the site and through the body.
• Warm—a pleasant feeling that spreads around the acupuncture point.

The bottom line is that while acupuncture can sometimes cause some unusual sensations, it shouldn’t hurt or feel uncomfortable. If it does, let your acupuncturist know right away so the needles can be adjusted.

How Do I Prepare For My First Acupuncture Session?

• Set Aside Time Before and After Your Appointment

When scheduling your acupuncture appointment, try to avoid engaging in too stressful an activity before or after your session. 

• Bring a List of All Your Current Medications and Supplements

As a precaution, it is important to bring a list of all your current medications and supplements, particularly if herbs will be a component of your treatment. This is because there are certain herb-drug interactions that can have harmful effects.  Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and blood thinning medications, including Warfarin, may fall into this category.

• Eat an Appropriate Amount Before Your Appointment

Make sure to eat a light meal or snack approximately two hours before your appointment. Try not to eat too big a meal, as this may cause you to feel uncomfortable during your appointment. The other extreme should be avoided as well- You risk feeling lightheaded if you go to your appointment on an empty stomach.

• Wear Loose-Fitting, Comfortable Clothing

If possible, wear loose-fitting clothes on the day of your appointment. This will make it easier for the acupuncturist to place the needles in the right places.

• Avoid Caffeine Before Your Appointment

Because it is a stimulant, try to avoid consuming caffeinated beverages and substances before your acupuncture appointment. Caffeine increases your body’s fight-or-flight response, something which acupuncture seeks to lessen.

What Can I Expect After an Acupuncture Session?

Many patients describe feeling very relaxed after an acupuncture session, and many report getting a better night's sleep. Often there is a feeling of heightened bodily awareness, so it's best to be cautious when consuming substances with caffeine or alcohol immediately after an acupuncture treatment. 

Very rarely, symptoms may become worse after an acupuncture treatment. This is often a sign that previously dormant conditions are being awakened so that complete healing may occur. This should pass quickly. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the clinic.

How Many  Sessions Will I Need?

Acupuncture works cumulatively- each visit builds on the improvement from the previous session. Whether your issue is acute or chronic, most patients feel a change in the intensity, frequency or duration of pain symptoms by the sixth visit or earlier.

What Risks Are Associated with Acupuncture?

When acupuncture is done correctly by a licensed practitioner, the risks are low. Acupuncture should be done in a clean environment, using clean, disposable and unbreakable needles.

According to the NIH, few complications from acupuncture have been reported, but when they are, they usually come from non-licensed acupuncturists using non-sterile needles and delivering treatments improperly. The NIH says these rare but serious adverse effects include infections, punctured organs, collapsed lungs and damage to the central nervous system. 

Is Acupuncture Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes!  Acupuncture is a safe and effective way to alleviate many discomforts commonly associated with pregnancy.  In addition, acupuncture can be used to help promote a more efficient labor.  In fact, many midwives and obstetricians refer their pregnant patients to acupuncturists.