Acupuncture is a key practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to restore the flow of qi (chi) and blood. It helps balance the body’s systems, relieve pain, and support natural healing. From a biomedical view, acupuncture stimulates nerves, boosts circulation, and releases endorphins. Most people find it relaxing and experience a sense of calm or renewed energy after treatment.

Acupuncture is generally not painful. The needles are very thin—much finer than those used for injections—so most people feel little to no pain when they’re inserted. You might feel a brief pinch, a dull ache, tingling, or warmth at the point, which is usually a sign the qi is being activated. Many people find the experience deeply relaxing, and some even fall asleep during treatment.

Acupuncture is considered very safe when performed by a licensed practitioner. Side effects are rare and usually mild. The most common ones include:

• Slight bruising or soreness at needle sites

• Fatigue or lightheadedness (especially after the first session)

• Temporary emotional release or increased sensitivity

More serious side effects are extremely rare, especially when sterile, single-use needles are used by a qualified professional. Always make sure your acupuncturist is licensed and trained to minimize any risks.

To get the most out of your acupuncture treatment, here are a few simple tips to prepare:

• Eat a light meal or snack about 1–2 hours beforehand—don’t come on an empty stomach or overly full.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing so your arms, legs, and abdomen are easily accessible.

• Stay hydrated, but avoid caffeine right before your session if possible.

• Avoid vigorous exercise or heavy stress immediately before your appointment.

• Arrive a few minutes early to relax and fill out any necessary forms.

• Be open and honest with your practitioner about your symptoms, health history, and lifestyle—it helps tailor the treatment to your needs.

Afterward, plan some time to rest or take it easy, especially if it’s your first session.

After an acupuncture treatment, it’s common to feel a sense of deep relaxation and calm, which is a sign that your body has shifted into a parasympathetic state—the “rest and digest” mode that supports healing and recovery. Many patients report feeling more grounded, clear-headed, or emotionally balanced following a session.

To support the effects of your treatment, it’s best to stay hydrated, eat a nourishing meal, and allow time for rest or gentle activity. Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, or highly stimulating environments immediately after your session.

While some individuals experience immediate symptom relief, others may notice gradual improvements over several sessions as the body responds to consistent care.

Yes, acupuncture is generally safe during pregnancy when performed by a licensed practitioner trained in prenatal care. In fact, it’s commonly used to support a healthy pregnancy by relieving symptoms like nausea, fatigue, back pain, sciatica, insomnia, and anxiety. It can also help with breech positioning and preparing the body for labor in the third trimester.

However, there are certain acupuncture points that are contraindicated during pregnancy because they may stimulate uterine contractions. A qualified practitioner will know which points to avoid and how to tailor treatments safely for each stage of pregnancy. Always let your acupuncturist know you’re pregnant (even in the early weeks), and seek care from someone experienced in treating pregnant patients.

While acupuncture and dry needling both use thin needles, they come from very different backgrounds and have distinct purposes. Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and involves placing needles in specific points along the body’s meridians to balance qi (vital energy), support overall health, and treat a wide range of conditions—from pain and stress to digestion and fertility.

Practitioners of acupuncture undergo extensive training in both needle technique and TCM diagnosis, often over several years. Dry needling, on the other hand, is a modern technique based on Western anatomy and focuses on releasing tight muscle knots, or trigger points, to relieve pain and improve mobility. It’s commonly practiced by physical therapists or chiropractors, many of whom learn the technique in a weekend workshop or very short training program.

While both approaches use similar tools, acupuncture offers a more holistic, system-wide method of care, whereas dry needling is a localized, symptomatic treatment.