About Medical Acupuncture
Acupuncture places very thin, sterile, single-use needles at specific points in the skin and muscles. It is thought to help by changing how the nervous system processes pain and by relaxing tight muscles. Sometimes a gentle electrical current is added to the needles.
Medical acupuncture is performed by a physician who first makes a diagnosis. That matters, because it ensures a condition that needs other care is not missed and lets acupuncture be combined with injections, procedures, and rehab when appropriate.
Evidence supports acupuncture for some chronic pain conditions, including low back pain, neck pain, knee arthritis, and headache, though results vary. We use it as one tool within a plan focused on keeping you active and building strength.
What happens during treatment
- 1.
Dr. Chen reviews your history, examines you, and confirms that acupuncture is appropriate for your condition.
- 2.
You lie comfortably while thin needles are placed at selected points. Most people feel little or no pain.
- 3.
The needles stay in place for a short period, sometimes with mild electrical stimulation.
- 4.
The needles are removed, and a course of several sessions is usually recommended.
Who may be a good candidate
- People with chronic low back, neck, knee, or shoulder pain.
- People with tension-type headache or migraine who want a nonmedication option.
- People who want to reduce reliance on pain medication.
- People in rehab who need help managing pain so they can stay active.
Recovery
There is no downtime, and most people return to their day right away. Some feel relaxed or mildly tired afterward. Mild soreness or small bruises at needle sites can occur. Benefits often build over a series of sessions.
Risks and limits
Acupuncture is generally safe when performed with sterile single-use needles. Minor bleeding, bruising, soreness, and lightheadedness are the most common effects. Rare risks include infection and, when needles are placed over the chest, a collapsed lung. Tell your physician if you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, are pregnant, or have a pacemaker, since electrical stimulation may not be appropriate.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Questions about Acupuncture
- Does acupuncture hurt?
- Acupuncture needles are much thinner than injection needles, so most people feel only a brief pinch or a dull ache. Many people find sessions relaxing.
- How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
- Most people start with a short series of weekly sessions and then reassess. Some notice relief after a few treatments, while others need more. If it is not helping, we will adjust the plan.
- How is medical acupuncture different from other acupuncture?
- Medical acupuncture is performed by a physician who makes a medical diagnosis first. This allows acupuncture to be combined safely with other treatments, such as injections and rehab, as part of one plan.