According to the teachings of traditional Chinese medicine, energy channels called meridians run throughout the body. Acupuncture has been used for more than 2,000 years to treat a wide array of health issues. This form of traditional Chinese medicine is now practiced all over the world and can be utilized as an independent healing modality or may be combined with adjunctive treatments such as chiropractic care, massage, cupping, or additional therapies. Here at Mason Family Chiropractic, we use a blend of Eastern Medicine and Western therapy to provide an effective, more integrated approach to our acupuncture treatments. 

By restoring energy flow or “qi” (pronounced “chee”), an acupuncture treatment stimulates the body’s own healing responses, supporting its ability to self-regulate and correct imbalances in function. This leads to improved health, healing, and emotional well-being. The explanation for how acupuncture works varies. The most up-to-date research suggests that stimulating specific areas of the body (known as acupuncture points) prompts the release of endorphins into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. Often referred to as the brain’s feel-good chemicals, these neurotransmitters alter how we experience pain and trigger other hormones that influence the body’s own internal regulating system.

What can Acupuncture help alleviate? 

Acupuncture treats a wide range of health conditions. It has been recognized as a viable healing modality for over 40 conditions by the World Health Organization (WHO). These conditions include but are not limited to the following:

Does an acupuncture needle hurt?

Often called, “the painless needle,” Chinese acupuncture needles are thinner than a piece of human hair. People experience acupuncture needles differently. Some patients report feeling no pain; others feel minimal discomfort as the needles are inserted. Most people describe acupuncture as being simultaneously very relaxing and refreshingly energizing.

Are the needles sterile?

The needles come individually pre-packaged and pre-sterilized. Our licensed acupuncturist follows recommended procedures to clean and sterilize the environment the needles are handled in also.

How long will the treatment last?

Acupuncture points can be found on both the front and back of the body. The insertion of the needles typically happens quickly. Once the needles are in place, you can simply relax. After approximately 15-30 minutes, the needles are then removed.

How many treatments will I need? 

To create a foundation for successful outcomes, we consider how long you have had the condition, the severity of it, as well as your compliance on recommendations offered and the consistency of your care. Treatment frequency is an important component for successful outcomes because Acupuncture works cumulatively. Treatments and their effects need time to build upon one another to ensure long-lasting results. The more chronic the condition, the more care that is likely needed to improve your health. 

If you are looking to “try” Acupuncture, keep in mind that it takes more than 1-2 treatments to start noticing results. If you are looking to create a foundation for wellness that allows for sustainable relief, our practice would be a good fit for you. 

For acute conditions, it takes a minimum of 4-6 sessions to start seeing improvements and lasting change. For more chronic and severe conditions, a minimum of 8-10 treatments is typically needed. Dr. Helms will collaborate with you a treatment plan that is personalized to fit your condition and needs to provide you with the most effective care in the most efficient time frame possible. Treatments and any effects need time to build on one another to become long-lasting—like learning a new skill or starting an exercise program.