Acupuncture

What is acupuncture?

Originated from China, acupuncture is an alternative medical treatment that involves inserting very thin needles into specific points around the body to restore a balanced flow of energy. In modern medicine, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing process and improve overall bodily function.

Many patients opt for acupuncture to alleviate pain without invasive surgery or addictive opioid medications. Because acupuncture involves nothing but sterile needles, it’s a natural alternative to traditional pain treatments.

What are the benefits of acupuncture?

Acupuncture stimulates your body’s natural healing response to relieve the symptoms of many conditions and ailments, including:

• Stress
• Muscle tension
• Neck pain
• Back pain
• Headaches
• Migraines
• Menstrual pain (PMS)
• Digestive disorders (Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, etc.)
• Infertility
• Nausea and vomiting
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Chronic pain

Depending on your condition, the Jersey Integrative Health and Wellness team can design an acupuncture plan that targets your unique symptoms and health concerns.

How can I prepare for my acupuncture visit?

There are a number of ways to prepare for your acupuncture visit, including:

Wear comfortable clothing

When you arrive at the office, make sure to wear loose-fitting clothes that allow easy access to your arms and legs.

Eat light

It’s crucial that you eat a light meal or hearty snack before your acupuncture visit. The treatment can leave you feeling lightheaded or dizzy if you show up on an empty stomach. Likewise, avoid eating anything too heavy or fried before your appointment. 

Avoid coffee and alcohol

Coffee is a stimulant that can increase sympathetic nerve activity during acupuncture, which makes it difficult for your acupuncturist to gauge accurate pulse readings. Alcohol, meanwhile, can impair your senses and reduce the positive effects of acupuncture.

Talk to your doctor

Always make sure to tell the team if you’ve never had acupuncture before. This can help the team prepare the right treatment plan for you as they review your health history.

What happens during acupuncture?

After you lie down, your acupuncturist inserts very small, thin needles into preselected points around your body. The team may manipulate the needles occasionally, and they typically stay inserted for approximately 20 to 40 minutes.

Once your acupuncturist removes the needles, you may feel either relaxed or energetic at the end of the appointment. Most experts recommend coming in for acupuncture treatments twice a week for five to six weeks and once a week after. 

If you think acupuncture is right for you, call Jersey Integrative Health and Wellness or schedule an appointment online.