What to expect at an acupuncture treatment?

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture helps to regulate the Central Nervous System and its various feedback loops in the body. When acupuncture needles are inserted into an acupuncture point, it stimulates an impulse into the complex feedback mechanisms between the brain, hormones, glands and organs which are responsible for regulating all bodily processes.

Acupuncture points are specific areas on the body just beyond the surface of the skin. They have high concentrations of nerve endings, mast cells, lymphatic vessels, and capillaries.

Acupuncture helps to regulate the various feedback loops in your body which turn on homeostasis, the body’s ability to re-set, repair and heal.

How often should I get acupuncture?

Acupuncture has a cumulative effect, and each treatment builds upon the last. Much like starting a new routine, it is essential to practice repetition and consistency. When starting the acupuncture journey, it is essential to have high frequency treatments in the beginning (1-2x/week) because each treatment gains momentum on the last. If treatments are too far apart, we can lose momentum and erase the progress we've done through treatments.

Each person responds differently to acupuncture, and each person has a different chief complaint, or reason for seeking treatment.

A typical treatment course for chronic conditions is 2x/week for the first 6 weeks, then 1x/week for an additional 4-6 weeks. Many people do “okay” with 1 treatment per week, but for best results, twice a week is recommended.

It is also important to pro-actively schedule a session immediately if you ever start to feel your symptoms creeping back. Each treatment builds durability and resilience thereby preventing the return of symptoms. Once your symptoms have subsided, maintenance sessions are often recommended every 4-6 weeks to keep your body in a wellness routine.

What to wear to an acupuncture treatment?

Loose, comfortable clothing is always best for treatments. Pants and tops that you can roll up loosely are best. If you are unable to wear loose clothing, sheets and blankets are always available to cover up.

What to Expect/ Side Effects

Side effects of acupuncture are infrequent, but they can occur. They also tend to be very mild when (and if) they do occur. The most common side effects are fatigue, dizziness, soreness and bruising.

Healing Crisis, Herx Reactions

​While most people notice a marked improvement in their symptoms following acupuncture, some feel worse before they start feeling better. This is sometimes referred to as a “healing crisis” which is much like the detox effect. Eat clean (no processed foods, sugar, alcohol).

Other tips:

• Set aside time for quiet reflection and stillness following sessions.

• Eat a light meal before acupuncture. Low blood sugar could be responsible for dizziness after treatment.

• Emotional releases are common during acupuncture. Eastern Medicine highlights the importance of treating the emotional body and tending to the Spirit, so it is not uncommon to feel a shift in emotions.

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