Acupuncture
Acupuncture consists of the insertion of very thin, hair-like needles into the body at specific points along distinct channels of energy (called meridians) that cover the body somewhat like the nerves & blood vessels.
The first record of acupuncture is found in the 4,700 year old Huang Di Nei Jing (Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine), which is said to be the oldest medical textbook in the world.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture consists of the insertion of very thin, hair-like needles into the body at specific points along distinct channels of energy (called meridians) that cover the body somewhat like the nerves & blood vessels.
The first record of acupuncture is found in the 4,700 year old Huang Di Nei Jing (Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine), which is said to be the oldest medical textbook in the world.
Acupuncture Points and Meridian Channels:
A Guide to Healing Pathways
There are over 2,000 acupuncture points located all over the body, shown to be effective in the treatment of specific health problems.
These points were mapped to 14 major meridian or Channel lines, one meridian for each of the 12 inner organs, one meridian along the spine, and another along the mid-line of the abdomen & chest.
Yin and Yang & the Meridians: Balancing the Body’s Energy Pathways
In addition to the 14 main Meridians/Channels, there are also 8 secondary meridians/channels through which the energy of the body, or Qi, moves and flows. However, these 8 “extra meridians” do not have acupuncture points of their own, but rather, share acupuncture points from the 14 main meridians.
Specifically, the meridians of the body conduct Qi flow between the surface of the body and internal organs.
The main meridians are classified into two opposing categories: Yin meridians and Yang meridians.
Yin meridians link to the “Yin organs” of the body and Yang meridians link to the “Yang organs” of the body.
Yin and Yang meridians thus, form a complex network of pathways, guiding and regulating the proper flow of Qi through the whole body.
Yin and Yang & the Meridians: Balancing the Body’s Energy Pathways
In addition to the 14 main Meridians/Channels, there are also 8 secondary meridians/channels through which the energy of the body, or Qi, moves and flows. However, these 8 “extra meridians” do not have acupuncture points of their own, but rather, share acupuncture points from the 14 main meridians.
Specifically, the meridians of the body conduct Qi flow between the surface of the body and internal organs.
The main meridians are classified into two opposing categories: Yin meridians and Yang meridians.
Yin meridians link to the “Yin organs” of the body and Yang meridians link to the “Yang organs” of the body.
Yin and Yang meridians thus, form a complex network of pathways, guiding and regulating the proper flow of Qi through the whole body.
Acupuncture and Qi Flow: Harmonizing the Body’s Energy Channels
Traditional Asian Acupuncture is based on Ancient Chinese theories regarding the flow of Qi through these distinct channels/meridians that cover the body. According to this theory, acupuncture adjusts the flow of Qi in the body, leading it to areas where it is insufficient and draining it from areas where it is stuck and/or superabundant. In this way, acupuncture restores the harmonious balance of the body and its parts.
In Chinese, there is a saying, “if there is pain, there is no free flow; if there is free flow, there is no pain”. Acupuncture, therefore, promotes and reestablishes the free flow of Qi, as well as, influencing the qi to move in its proper directions.
Similar to acupuncture, are moxa and cupping therapies, which affect the acupuncture points using heat and pressure. These therapies also adjust & reestablish the free flow of qi within the body, thus, contributing to and restoring the harmonious balance within the body.
Moxibustion
A treatment that uses an herb called Mugwort, burned indirectly over the skin, on the handle of a needle, or directly on the skin. Moxibustion affects the acupuncture points and meridians using heat and the medicinal qualities of Mugwort.
Cupping
A therapy using heat and suction via glass cups on specific areas of the body, designed to stimulate the flow of Qi and blood within the superficial muscle layers. It is useful for sore muscles, tension, neck pain, chronic back & low back pain, acute sprain and injury and the common cold
How Acupuncture Works from a Western Scientific Perspective
Acupuncture involves the precise insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate physiological changes and promote healing. Modern medical research has demonstrated that acupuncture activates a range of biological mechanisms, which help explain its benefits for pain relief, inflammation, stress, and various health conditions [1][3][6][8].
Key Mechanisms of Action
Neurological and Neuro-chemical Effects:
Acupuncture stimulates nerves in the skin and muscles, sending signals to the spinal cord and brain [1][3]. This activates the release of natural substances such as endorphins, enkephalins, and other opioid-like neuropeptides, which function as the body’s own painkillers and mood regulators [3][6][8].
Modulation of Pain Pathways:
By engaging neural circuits, acupuncture can alter how pain signals are processed, reducing pain sensitivity both locally and throughout the nervous system (a phenomenon known as diffuse noxious inhibitory controls, or DNIC) [3][6]. Acupuncture also dampens the activity of neurotransmitters like substance P, further inhibiting pain [3][6].
Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Regulation:
Research shows that acupuncture can help regulate inflammation by calming pro-inflammatory cytokine activity and activating pathways that reduce excessive immune responses. For example, acupuncture can modulate the “cytokine storm” implicated in many severe inflammatory diseases [4].
Enhanced Blood Flow and Tissue Healing:
Needle insertion promotes increased local blood circulation, supporting oxygen delivery, waste removal, and tissue repair at the site of needling and in affected areas [2][6].
Impact on Autonomic Nervous System:
Acupuncture has measurable effects on the autonomic (“involuntary”) nervous system—helping balance stress (sympathetic) and relaxation (parasympathetic) pathways, which may reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and support heart health [5].
Additional Molecular Pathways:
Emerging research suggests acupuncture activates signaling molecules such as adenosine, which binds to cell receptors and produces localized analgesia; it also triggers mast cell degranulation and influences the activity of TRP (transient receptor potential) ion channels, all of which further support pain relief and healing [1].
In summary:
Source 1
Understandings of acupuncture application and mechanisms – PMC https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8991130/
Source 2
Neurobiological Mechanisms of Acupuncture for Some Common … https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S200529011300174X
Source 3
Acupuncture therapy: mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3996195/
Source 4
Exploring the Science of Acupuncture | Harvard Medical School https://hms.harvard.edu/news/exploring-science-acupuncture
Source 5
Defining Acupuncture’s Place in Western Medicine – scientia.global https://www.scientia.global/defining-acupunctures-place-western-medicine/
Source 6
Western Mechanism of Action for Acupuncture https://bqacupuncture.com.au/blog/western-mechanism-of-action-for-acupuncture/
Source 7
Acupuncture: What To Know – Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/4767-acupuncture
Source 8
Acupuncture | Complementary and Alternative Medicine | JAMA https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/188113
Source 9
Effects and Mechanisms of Acupuncture Based on the Principle of … https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2005290114000971
Supporting the Body’s Natural Healing Process
Acupuncture views the body as an interconnected system, where imbalance in one area can influence overall health. Rather than masking symptoms, this approach focuses on supporting the body’s natural healing processes and restoring proper flow and regulation.
At Healing Traditions Integrated Wellness, acupuncture treatments are thoughtfully tailored to your unique constitution, health history, and current needs—helping support balance, resilience, and whole-body healing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture
Is Acupuncture Painful?
Most people who have had acupuncture would describe it as virtually painless or far less painful than plucking out a hair.
The sensations that follow, range from nothing at all, to mild tingling, to slight heaviness or aching moving up and down the channels/meridians, to electrical pulsations in areas distant from the site of insertion.
All these sensations usually subside once the needles have been in place for a while or are removed. The needles used for acupuncture are typically not much thicker than a strand of hair, do not draw blood and are solid, not hollow. Many people find acupuncture very relaxing.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
When performed by a competently trained, license professional, acupuncture is extremely safe. All licensed acupuncturists today use individually packaged, sterile, disposable needles, so there is virtually no chance of infection or contagion.
Are there different styles of acupuncture?
Acupuncture originated in China, but has spread to Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Europe and America. In different countries, different styles have developed based on differing opinions as to theory and technique.
Patients should talk to their practitioner about his or her particular style and choose the style that will best suit their constitution and preference.
What is Laser Acupuncture?
Laser Acupuncture (also called Laserpuncture) uses focused low-level laser light to stimulate acupuncture points and trigger points instead of traditional needles. The laser delivers precise photon energy to acupoints, triggering physiological responses similar to—or in some cases superior to—needle acupuncture.
Laser Acupuncture is:
- Non-invasive – No skin penetration, no infection risk.
- Painless – Ideal for needle-phobic patients (50% of candidates).
- Fast- 8-12 seconds per point with professional equipment.
- Safe – No bleeding, bruising, or contraindications for children.
What criteria should I use in choosing an acupuncturist?
Look for a (NCBAHM)® Dipl. Ac. – Diplomate of Acupuncture certified practitioner or a (NCBAHM)® Dipl. AHM – Diplomate of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine certified practitioner – by going to the NCBAHM® “Find a Practitioner” directory at https://www.ncbahm.org/find-a-practitioner-directory/.
- Foundations of Oriental Medicine and Diagnosis
- Acupuncture point location and theory
- Chinese Herbology
- Biomedicine
As well as, meet other (NCBAHM)®/NCCAOM® certification requirements.
What should I know about the proposed treatments?
Before we begin, I’ll explain your diagnosis from a Chinese medicine perspective and how acupuncture may help your specific concerns. We’ll review your health history, medications, and goals so the treatment plan is tailored to you, not a one‑size‑fits‑all protocol.
During an acupuncture session, very thin, sterile, single‑use needles are placed at specific points on your body and typically retained for about 20–40 minutes while you rest. Most people feel minimal discomfort; common sensations include a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of heaviness that usually fades within a few minutes and is considered a normal response.
Your plan may also include additional techniques such as acupressure, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion (gentle warming of points), or lifestyle and self‑care recommendations. I’ll always let you know what I’m recommending, why I’m recommending it, and whether there are any alternatives so you can decide what you’re comfortable with.
The number and frequency of treatments vary depending on whether your condition is acute or chronic, your overall health, and how your body responds. Some people notice changes after one to three sessions, while longer‑standing issues often benefit from a series of visits and occasional maintenance sessions.
Side effects are usually mild and short‑lived, such as slight soreness, temporary bruising at a needle site, or feeling relaxed or tired afterward. More serious complications are very rare when acupuncture is performed by a properly trained, licensed practitioner using clean‑needle techniques, but I’ll review any specific risks or precautions that apply to you—for example, if you are pregnant, on blood thinners, or have a medical device like a pacemaker.
At every visit, you’re encouraged to ask questions, share feedback about how you’re feeling, and let me know if anything is uncomfortable at any point. You are always free to pause, change, or stop treatment; my role is to provide clear information and professional guidance so you can make informed choices about your care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture
Is Acupuncture Painful?
Most people who have had acupuncture would describe it as virtually painless or far less painful than plucking out a hair.
The sensations that follow, range from nothing at all, to mild tingling, to slight heaviness or aching moving up and down the channels/meridians, to electrical pulsations in areas distant from the site of insertion.
All these sensations usually subside once the needles have been in place for a while or are removed. The needles used for acupuncture are typically not much thicker than a strand of hair, do not draw blood and are solid, not hollow. Many people find acupuncture very relaxing.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
When performed by a competently trained, license professional, acupuncture is extremely safe. All licensed acupuncturists today use individually packaged, sterile, disposable needles, so there is virtually no chance of infection or contagion.
Are there different styles of acupuncture?
Acupuncture originated in China, but has spread to Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Europe and America. In different countries, different styles have developed based on differing opinions as to theory and technique.
Patients should talk to their practitioner about his or her particular style and choose the style that will best suit their constitution and preference.
What criteria should I use in choosing an acupuncturist?
Look for a Diplomate of Acupuncture (NCBAHM)® or a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine (NCBAHM)® (formerly, NCCAOM)® by going to the NCBAHM® Find a Practitioner directory at https://www.ncbahm.org/find-a-practitioner-directory/.
- Foundations of Oriental Medicine and Diagnosis
- Acupuncture point location and theory
- Chinese Herbology
- Biomedicine
As well as, meet other (NCBAHM)®/NCCAOM® certification requirements.
What should I know about the proposed treatments?
Before we begin, I’ll explain your diagnosis from a Chinese medicine perspective and how acupuncture may help your specific concerns. We’ll review your health history, medications, and goals so the treatment plan is tailored to you, not a one‑size‑fits‑all protocol.
During an acupuncture session, very thin, sterile, single‑use needles are placed at specific points on your body and typically retained for about 20–40 minutes while you rest. Most people feel minimal discomfort; common sensations include a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of heaviness that usually fades within a few minutes and is considered a normal response.
Your plan may also include additional techniques such as acupressure, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion (gentle warming of points), or lifestyle and self‑care recommendations. I’ll always let you know what I’m recommending, why I’m recommending it, and whether there are any alternatives so you can decide what you’re comfortable with.
The number and frequency of treatments vary depending on whether your condition is acute or chronic, your overall health, and how your body responds. Some people notice changes after one to three sessions, while longer‑standing issues often benefit from a series of visits and occasional maintenance sessions.
Side effects are usually mild and short‑lived, such as slight soreness, temporary bruising at a needle site, or feeling relaxed or tired afterward. More serious complications are very rare when acupuncture is performed by a properly trained, licensed practitioner using clean‑needle techniques, but I’ll review any specific risks or precautions that apply to you—for example, if you are pregnant, on blood thinners, or have a medical device like a pacemaker.
At every visit, you’re encouraged to ask questions, share feedback about how you’re feeling, and let me know if anything is uncomfortable at any point. You are always free to pause, change, or stop treatment; my role is to provide clear information and professional guidance so you can make informed choices about your care.
Is there anything I need to do before receiving an acupuncture treatment?
- Wear loose fitting clothing. Women should not wear one piece dresses and should avoid wearing stockings. If however, these suggestions are not convenient, the practitioner will provide a treatment gown if needed.
- Avoid treatment when excessively fatigued, hungry, full, or emotionally upset.
Is there anything I need to do while receiving acupuncture?
- RELAX. There is no need to be frightened. Ask your practitioner any questions you may have along the way, so that you can get the most benefit possible from the treatment. However, try to limit your conversation as this will ultimately detract from the treatment.
- Do not change your position or move suddenly while the needles are being retained. If you are uncomfortable, tell your practitioner so that he/she may accommodate you accordingly.
What can I expect after treatment?
Some patients experience an immediate total or partial relief of their pain or other symptoms, however, this relief tends to be somewhat temporary in the beginning stages of treatment, with initial improvements potentially sliding back within a few hours or days following your first few visits.
In a few cases, there may be no immediate relief only to notice the pain & or discomfort diminish over the next couple of days.
How many treatments will I need?
This question is always answered on a case-by-case basis, however, the number and frequency of treatments vary depending on whether your condition is acute or chronic, your overall health, and how your body responds.
Some people notice changes after one to three sessions, while longer‑standing issues often benefit from a series of visits and occasional maintenance sessions.
Most patients require 2-6 weeks of at least either 1 treatment per week or 1 treatment bi-weekly to make significant change. While some acute, less severe conditions can be resolved quickly (ie: 4-6 treatments), chronic conditions that have persisted for years may require several courses of treatments over a longer period of time to completely resolve, as well as, “maintenance” or “tune-up” visits after symptoms reside in order to consolidate the gains made and prevent relapse.
During your initial consultation, we will discuss a proper treatment plan with you.
Each person is unique and will be treated with an individualized treatment plan. No two conditions or people respond exactly the same. The length of treatment/number of treatments needed depends on the type, severity, and duration of the condition, and the patient’s physical state at the time of treatment.
Both the examination and your response to your first few treatments will give us an idea of the course of treatments that will be needed . Each time you come in we will reassess your progress and treatment plan.
The best therapeutic results are attained by following the treatment plan and recommendations. It is important to complete the course of therapy for best and longest lasting results.
Ongoing treatments for health maintenance are designed and aimed to prevent disease and promote health, vitality and longevity.
Acupuncture can also improve your body’s threshold to handle life’s everyday stressors and the imbalances created by the common day lifestyle.
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