Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a time tested medical system from Asia dating back thousands of years that involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific therapeutic areas of the body. It helps restore balance, promote natural healing, and relieve pain by stimulating the body’s own regulatory systems. The body is the medicine and acupuncture helps to support the healing process.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to initiate a healing response. Modern research has shown it’s primary functions are:

• Release endorphins and enkephalins These act as neurotransmitters and neuromodulators in the nervous stem that play a crucial role in regulating pain sensation and other physiological processes.

• Improves muscle and nerve functionality Acupuncture acts like a ”workout” for the nervous system.

• Regulate the parasympathetic nervous system This is our “rest and digest” state that is allows for the healing process to function optimally.

• Relax tight muscles and increase local blood flow This aids in healing and overall comfort.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Most patients feel little to no discomfort. The needles are extremely fine, much thinner than those used for injections and are gently inserted. Many people find the experience relaxing and even meditative. If you feel any discomfort, let your acupuncturist know and it can be adjusted.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes, acupuncture is very safe when performed by a licensed, trained practitioner. Only sterile, single use needles are used in our clinic, and strict hygiene protocols are followed.

What can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture can be effective for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Chronic pain (back, neck, joint, headaches)

• Digestive issues

• Stress and anxiety

• Insomnia

• Women’s health concerns

• Sports injuries and more

If you’re unsure whether acupuncture can help with your specific condition, feel free to ask. The answer is probably yes!

How many treatments will I need?

Treatment plans vary depending on the condition, its severity, and your body’s response. Some patients experience relief after just one session, while others may require a series of treatments for lasting benefits. We’ll create a personalized treatment plan after your initial consultation.

What should I do before and after a session?

Before: Eat a light meal or snack, stay hydrated, and wear loose clothing.
After: Drink water, avoid strenuous activity, and give your body time to rest and absorb the effects of the treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is dry needling or trigger point therapy?

Dry needling (sometimes called trigger point therapy) is a technique used to release tight muscle bands, known as trigger points, that contribute to pain and dysfunction. It involves inserting a thin, sterile needle directly into these hyper-irritable muscle fibers to help reset muscle tone and improve function.

How is dry needling different from acupuncture?

While both use similar needles, dry needling is based on modern anatomical and neurological principles, focusing specifically on muscular trigger points and neuromuscular dysfunction. Acupuncture by contrast, is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and uses a more global diagnostic and therapeutic framework to treat the body that can include working on trigger points or what are known as ”ashi” points. Dry needling treatment can be a stand alone treatment or be used by an acupuncturist within a Chinese medicine context for your treatment.

How does dry needling work?

Dry needling stimulates a local twitch response, which helps:

• Release tight, painful trigger points
  

• Reset abnormal muscle tone

• Improve blood flow and oxygen to the tissue

• Reduce pain-related chemicals like Substance P and CGRP

• Enhance neuromuscular function

• Calm the nervous system by decreasing central sensitization

This process helps the muscle relax, improves mobility, and reduces pain.

Does dry needling hurt?

You may feel a brief twitch, cramp, or dull ache during treatment, this is a normal and often desired response. Most patients describe it as momentarily uncomfortable but well worth the relief they experience afterward. Some patients may feel some dull soreness for about a day or so afterwords.

Is dry needling safe?

Yes, dry needling is safe when performed by trained and licensed professionals. We use sterile, single-use needles and follow rigorous hygiene and safety standards.

What conditions can dry needling help with?

Dry needling is commonly used to treat:

• Myofascial pain and muscle tension

• Neck and back pain

• Sciatica and hip pain

• Shoulder and rotator cuff injuries

• TMJ dysfunction

• Sports injuries

• Postural imbalances

How many sessions will I need?

It varies by condition and individual response. Some patients experience improvement after 1–2 sessions, while chronic or complex issues may require several visits for lasting relief.

Can I combine dry needling with acupuncture?

Absolutely. Many patients benefit from an integrated approach that combines dry needling for muscular issues with acupuncture to regulate the nervous system and support whole-body healing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Acupuncture Point Injection Therapy?

Acupuncture Point Injection Therapy combines the benefits of acupuncture with the targeted delivery of natural substances, such as vitamins, homeopathics, ozone, or saline, into specific acupuncture points or trigger points. It enhances the healing effects of traditional acupuncture by stimulating points more deeply and supporting tissue regeneration. Other natural substances can also be used for scar remodeling.

How does it work?

This therapy works by:

• Delivering therapeutic substances directly into acupuncture points or tight muscle areas

• Enhancing the body’s natural healing response

• Reducing inflammation and pain

• Improving circulation and cellular repair

• Supporting immune function and detoxification (depending on the injected substance)
  It’s often used for musculoskeletal pain, chronic inflammation, fatigue, and injury recovery.

What’s injected during the treatment?

Common substances include:

• Vitamin B12 for energy, nerve health, and tissue repair

• Traumeel or Zeel (homeopathic anti-inflammatories)

• Saline or sterile water to stimulate local healing

• Ozone for improved oxygen delivery and regeneration

• Chinese herbal extracts
  Your practitioner will choose the most appropriate solution based on your condition and health history.

Does it hurt?

You may feel a mild pinch or pressure during the injection, but most patients tolerate it well. The sensation is typically brief, and many people report rapid relief after treatment.

What conditions can it help with?

Injection therapy is commonly used for:

• Joint and muscle pain

• Sciatica and low back pain

• Neck and shoulder tension

• Headaches and migraines

• Fatigue and low energy

• Sports injuries and repetitive strain

• scars

Is it safe?

Yes. The substances used are sterile, and the procedure is performed by trained, licensed professional using clean needle technique. We carefully review your medical history to ensure safety and efficacy.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on your condition. Some patients notice significant improvement after one session, while others may benefit from a series of treatments to achieve longer-lasting results.

Can I combine this with regular acupuncture or dry needling?

Yes! Acupuncture Point Injection Therapy works synergistically with acupuncture and dry needling, providing both immediate and sustained results for pain relief and tissue healing.