Needle insertion should be painless, and many are surprised by how relaxing it feels to rest with the needles in. You may feel a small prick but it is nothing compared to a shot, as our needles are much thinner (about as fine as a strand of hair).

It is normal to feel subtle warmth, tingling, dull ache, or heaviness during needle retention. Sometimes folks compare the sensation to having a weighted blanked on. Once the session is complete, patients often feel calm but mentally clear.

Acupuncture, like physical therapy, is usually administered in a series of sessions and benefits are cumulative. The number of sessions needed to make a lasting difference varies by condition. At your first visit we can discuss what frequency and duration would look like for you.

Patients with chronic conditions often find it effective to come in for ‘tune-ups’ to maintain their relief. For some this is twice per year, for others it’s monthly. This proactive strategy can be timed around seasons, stressors, or events that trigger regression. (ie. For springtime allergies, let’s fortify you before the pollen count gets high. If you have a big trip with lots of walking planned, we’ll support that old knee injury before you go so you can enjoy less limitation/unpredictability.)

After going over your health history and concerns, I will ask you some more intake questions regarding your symptoms and habits. Needles will be placed in particular points that correlate to your needs. This may be on the arms, legs, abdomen, back,  scalp, and ears. Typically this step is done while the patient lays on a massage table. Once we confirm you are comfortable, you will rest with peaceful music playing.

I recommend wearing loose fitting, comfortable clothing to your session and having something to eat beforehand. After receiving acupuncture it’s wise to avoid over-exerting for the rest of the day.

Acupuncture has a wide range of benefits for those navigating cancer diagnosis and treatment. It can be used to prepare for and better tolerate chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation,  oral maintenance medications, and surgery. This style of acupuncture is extra gentle but highly effective at symptom + side effect management. It is also supportive for recuperation after treatments are complete and for any other issues that arise through survivorship.

Working with an acupuncturist specialized in oncology means your provider is familiar with exactly how to weave acupuncture - as well as Traditional Chinese Medicine food therapy - together with your medical care in a safe way that maximizes quality of life.