6 Questions to Ask Before Your First Acupuncture Visit

Are you considering acupuncture for holistic relief? 

Being prepared is the first step toward finding healing with this ancient practice. Preparation starts with professional medical advice, followed by a clear understanding of acupuncture techniques, certification, known risks, treatment plans, and other safety measures. 

Before you book your first appointment, ask questions that cover these six key areas. This will help you prepare properly for best results. 

1. What Is The Role of Your Healthcare Provider?

Consulting a healthcare professional should be the first step in the acupuncture process. This professional could be a physician or a nurse who has attended a (CCNE-accredited) nursing program; you can also check a list of schools, which include Berry College, among others. Next to offering valuable medical advice, a clinician can discuss your interest in acupuncture within the context of your full medical history. 

You'll want to discuss the condition you're seeking acupuncture for so that your doctor (or nurse practitioner) can discuss expectations and possible risks. You can also estimate the number of sessions it may take to see best results. They'll also look at any current medications when making their assessment. 

2. What Clean Needle Techniques Are Used in Acupuncture?

Patient safety is critical for any health appointment, including acupuncture. 

Acupuncturists must use single-use, sterile, disposable needles, mandated by the FDA. You can also ask a practitioner about their sanitation procedures, including: 

• Handwashing

• Insertion site preparation (with alcohol swabs)

• Proper needle management and disposal 

This practice is extremely safe when performed by a licensed professional using sterile tools. 

3. Is the Acupuncturist Licensed to Practice?

Acupuncturists must hold state licenses to practice, as well as certifications by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. NCCAOM confirms the acupuncturist's core training. 

You can also ask about specific training and how long they've been practicing.

4. What Treatment Plan is Right for Your Condition? 

You can ask an acupuncturist if they're experienced in treating your specific condition, whether it's headaches and migraines, back pain, neck pain, or joint pain. 

Learn how they customize treatment plans for specific pain areas. A licensed acupuncturist will also assess your overall well-being and medical history, including medications, when developing a treatment plan.

Discuss how long each acupuncture session will take. Initial visits usually take longer, while subsequent visits are shorter; these sessions can range from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the treatment plan. 

It’s also worth asking if private care or insurance plans cover the cost of acupuncture sessions, as this can make ongoing treatment more accessible.

Discuss what to expect after an acupuncture session, including personalized aftercare to maximize relief and well-being. Some patients feel a combination of relaxation and calmness, but also some soreness and fatigue. 

Acupuncturists will recommend self-care tips to stay hydrated and reduce stress, including post-session rest. 

5. What Are the Risks of Acupuncture? 

If you're on any blood-thinning medications, you must bring this up during consultations with both your doctor and acupuncturist. Anticoagulants and certain conditions, like cirrhosis, can increase the risk of minor bleeding or bruising. 

Ask what precautions acupuncturists take when treating patients with these medications or conditions.

6. Are There Special Precautions for Pregnant Women? 

Acupuncture is considered generally safe and even beneficial during pregnancy. However, these sessions should only be administered by a licensed acupuncturist experienced with pregnant patients. 

Some acupuncture points are traditionally avoided during pregnancy. Discuss potential side effects as well, like soreness, nausea, or fatigue, which are also common symptoms of pregnancy.

Make the Most of Your Acupuncture Treatment

Remember that full results from acupuncture may take a few sessions. Follow your acupuncturist's aftercare instructions thoroughly, including avoiding high-stress situations (and certain foods) that can cause inflammation. Of course, get plenty of rest after your appointment!

Start the process now by gathering as much information as possible from trusted sources. Continue to monitor your progress and discuss possible adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.