Written by Integrative Today | Medically Reviewed by Deborah Farley | Updated on
Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice. Research shows this treatment may help with conditions like lower back pain, arthritis, migraines, and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).
If you are considering acupuncture treatment, you may wonder what to expect. For example, how often should you go for treatment? How many total sessions do you need to feel better?
Today, we want to address these questions before you schedule your first acupuncture appointment. Keep reading this acupuncture treatment guide for the answers you have been searching for.
How Many Acupuncture Sessions Do You Need?
The total number of acupuncture sessions you will need depends on various factors. These factors may include but are not limited to:
- The condition you are seeking treatment for
- Any pre-existing health conditions you may have
- Whether your condition is chronic or acute
- Your age (older patients may need more sessions)
- How well you comply with your aftercare instructions
In general, many patients need anywhere from five to eight treatments. At this point, your acupuncturist may recommend reducing the frequency of your sessions. If your condition is not responding, they may increase the frequency.
How Many Acupuncture Sessions Can You Schedule Per Week?
When you go in for your initial appointment, you and your acupuncturist will determine a schedule that suits your unique needs. That could mean one or two sessions per week or more if you have a chronic condition.
If you and your acupuncturist decide on eight total treatments, you may schedule two per week for a total of four weeks. Or you may schedule one session per week for a total treatment period of eight weeks.
How Long Do You Have to Wait Between Acupuncture Appointments?
It is best to wait a few days between acupuncture appointments. That is why most practitioners recommend two sessions per week as a baseline. You can increase your sessions as needed.
Why Wait Between Acupuncture Sessions?
There are a few reasons to wait between acupuncture sessions.
First of all, waiting between sessions allows room for contraindications to appear. Contraindications are negative responses to treatments that suggest a patient should not continue with that treatment.
Acupuncture has two important contraindications for people who have psychosis or heart monitoring device implants (AICDs).
The second reason to wait between sessions is acupuncture’s potential side effects. The most common side effect is pain and swelling from needle insertion, as well as a slight risk for infection and bruising.
Waiting between sessions gives your body a chance to heal. It can also potentially reduce the risk of having side effects altogether.
Ready to Schedule Your Acupuncture Treatment?
Acupuncture treatment is safe and effective for a variety of ailments. You and your acupuncturist can determine the best treatment schedule for your needs.
Are you ready to design a treatment plan with an acupuncturist in Lynchburg, VA? Acupuncture Works is here for you. Schedule your appointment today!
Meet Our Expert: Deborah Farley
Founder of Acupuncture Works,LLC in Lynchburg Virginia. Deborah is licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia Board of Medicine as a Licensed Acupuncturist (L. Ac.).
She is also licensed by the State of Florida as a Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM). Deborah is a Diplomate of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
She graduated from the East West College of Natural Medicine with a Master’s Degree in Oriental Medicine and a Bachelor’s Degree of Professional Health Sciences.
