Common Questions About Acupuncture Treatment

Kiya Hunter
Sep 16, 2021
2 min read

Updated: Oct 2

Acupuncture is a medical treatment that involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. It has been practiced for thousands of years and is now supported by modern research showing benefits for pain relief, stress reduction, and a wide range of health conditions.

What Does Acupuncture Treat?

Research into acupuncture is ongoing, but current evidence supports its use for many conditions, especially:

Musculoskeletal problems such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, and osteoarthritis
Headaches and migraines
Digestive issues including nausea and vomiting (including after surgery or chemotherapy)
Stress-related concerns such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia
Women’s health concerns like menstrual cramps, fertility support, and postpartum recovery

Other studies have shown promising results for conditions such as allergic rhinitis, rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, and hypertension. As research grows, we continue to learn more about acupuncture’s role in both physical and emotional health.

What Is Acupuncture Used For?

The most common reason people seek acupuncture is for pain relief. Research shows that acupuncture helps the body release natural pain-relieving chemicals (endorphins), reduce inflammation, and calm the nervous system. This makes it useful for:

Back and neck pain
Headaches and migraines
Dental pain
Menstrual cramps
Joint pain and arthritis
Postoperative pain
Labor support and postpartum recovery

In postpartum care, acupuncture may help with muscle tone, bladder control, healing after C-section, and overall recovery.

Acupuncture Uses

While pain relief is the best-studied benefit, acupuncture is also used as supportive care for:

Stress, anxiety, and depression
Insomnia and fatigue
Sinus congestion and allergies
Fertility support
Side effects of chemotherapy
General wellness and stress management

Some studies suggest acupuncture may also help with smoking cessation, weight management, and other health challenges, though more research is needed.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

When performed by a licensed practitioner, acupuncture is very safe. Side effects are generally mild and short-lived, such as slight soreness or bruising at the needle site.

It can also be used during pregnancy, though some points should be avoided. Always let your acupuncturist know if you are pregnant, on blood thinners, or have a bleeding disorder so treatment can be tailored to you.

Is Acupuncture Effective?

Various research, including National Institutes of Health (NIH) studies, shows that Acupuncture is a very effective treatment method either used alone or in combination with other conventional therapies. You can trust the process when applied by a quality practitioner who will ensure you achieve all the benefits of the process.

How Long Does It Take For Acupuncture to Work?

Everyone responds differently. Many patients notice improvements such as better sleep, less pain, or reduced stress after 2–3 sessions. Chronic conditions often require a series of treatments (usually 12-20) for best results.

How Often Should You Get Acupuncture?

Treatment frequency depends on your health goals:

Chronic conditions: often start with 1–2 sessions per week

Improving symptoms: treatments are spaced out gradually

Maintenance: many patients choose occasional follow-ups to support long-term wellness

Acupuncture is a safe and effective therapy for pain, stress, and many other health concerns. If you’re curious whether it could help you, we’d love to answer your questions and design a plan tailored to your needs.