what is acupunture?

Chiropractors certified in Acupuncture are authorized to perform rehabilitative therapies which may be done to prepare a patient for chiropractic care or to assist/ complement the chiropractic adjustment. This is done with the insertion of tiny needles into specific areas of the body which are called acupuncture points. These points can include any of the 12 channels or meridians that assist in energy flow. There are multiple techniques that can be used as a rehabilitative therapy in addition to meridian needling such as: cupping, Gui Shaw, and dry needling.

Acupuncture has had great research showing its capacity for pain relief. A few specific conditions can be headaches, neck pain, low back pain, sciatica, and many nerve conditions including radiculopathy/neuropathy, trauma/sports related injury. Multiple benefits are also achieved as patients report a feeling of calm, stress and anxiety reduction, and improved sleep.

Since the needles used in treatment are very thin, many people have the procedure with little to no pain. There can be and is often common for patients to feel a slight twinge or electrical sensation with the insertion, due to the needle contacting the nerve, muscle, or blood vessel at the point. This lasts only a few seconds with most patients tolerating well, however if for any reason it does not resolve quickly, that needle can be pulled out with other optional points available if the Acupuncturist feels it is important to that session.

Many treatment plans and protocols are a series of 6 sessions and are scheduled usually at one session per week, your provider will determine a course of care after a complete evaluation of your condition and recommend a course of care that is specific to your concerns. Most treatments will last from 20-45 minutes. Chronic conditions may require additional treatments and then taper off as your condition improves.

It is always important to follow up with your practitioner so that you can discuss the outcomes of your first treatment, as well as each visit after, and if appropriate, techniques and placement of needles could be changed during your following visits.

Many insurance companies do cover treatment; however, it is always best to contact your healthcare plan directly to find out your exact benefits based upon your individual plan.