Physical & Rehabilitative Care
Acupuncture
Acupuncture uses thin needles placed at selected body sites by a trained practitioner.
Overview
Acupuncture may be offered alongside medical care for selected symptoms. Sessions and approaches vary; it should not delay evaluation of new or worsening symptoms.
What to expect
- Review symptoms, medicines, and goals.
- Agree on needle placement and positioning.
- Receive sterile, single-use needles and rest briefly.
- Discuss any reaction and follow-up.
Why people explore it
- People often explore it for some chronic pain conditions.
- People often explore it for headache prevention.
- People often explore it for symptom support alongside medical care.
These are common reasons people look into it — not a sign that it's right for you.
What the evidence says
Evidence varies by use
Good evidence for some uses, weak or no evidence for others.
Better supported
- Research supports benefits for some chronic pain conditions and headache prevention.
Promising, but limited or uncertain
- Benefits vary by condition, and some differences from sham treatment are small.
Not supported by evidence
- It is not proven to cure cancer or replace necessary medical treatment.
Possible risks and precautions
- Bruising, bleeding, or soreness can occur.
- Poor technique can cause infection or rare organ injury, including punctured lung.
- Discuss pregnancy, blood thinners, bleeding disorders, and implanted electrical devices if electrical stimulation is proposed.
If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicines, ask your healthcare provider first.
Who provides it
- Licensed acupuncturists and some appropriately trained medical professionals provide care.
- Licensing and scope requirements vary by state; ask about sterile needle practice and relevant training.
Questions to ask before booking
- What evidence applies to my reason for visiting?
- Do you use sterile, single-use needles?
- How will you adapt the session to my health history and comfort?
- What would mean I should stop or seek medical care?
Costs and coverage
- Ask for the full fee, evaluation charges, and any equipment or follow-up costs.
- Coverage depends on the service, provider, medical need, and plan rules; check with your plan about referrals, networks, and visit limits.
Coverage changes often and differs by plan. Always confirm with your insurer and the provider.
Find this service
Search our free Find Help directory under “Chiropractic & rehabilitation”. Listings are information only — appearing there is not an endorsement.
Watch & learn
Acupuncture vs. Acupressure — a short Designed to Heal 360 video about this is in production. It isn't available to watch yet.
Related educational videos from trusted creators:
15 Minute Gentle Full Body Stretch
Source: Jessica Valant
A gentle full-body routine with seated and floor-based stretching.
Skip floor movements if getting down or back up is not comfortable for you.
Watch on YouTubeThink it through
What would I like to know about acupuncture before deciding whether it's right for me?
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Sources
Content reviewed . Written for general education and not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician.
Educational only — not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Supportive wellness practices do not replace necessary medical or mental-health care. Options are not equally effective, and not every option is right for every person. Please talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation. In an emergency, call your local emergency number; in the US, call or text 988 for crisis support. Emergency help