Acupuncture uses very thin needles placed at specific points on the body to help relieve pain and tension. At Innovation Spine Medical, acupuncture is offered as a complementary option within your pain management plan. It may help with back pain, neck pain and other types of chronic pain, on its own or alongside other treatments.
Acupuncture comes from traditional Chinese medicine and has been adapted into many modern pain practices. A trained practitioner places sterile, single-use needles, much thinner than those used for injections, at points chosen based on your symptoms.
Researchers believe acupuncture may influence how nerves, muscles and connective tissue send and process pain signals, and may encourage the body to release natural pain-relieving chemicals. Research suggests it may help some people with certain types of chronic pain, though responses vary.
Acupuncture is one of the non-drug approaches some patients use for chronic lower back pain, often combined with exercise and physical therapy.
Learn about low back pain
It may help ease neck stiffness and muscle tension, especially when pain is linked to posture or stress
Learn about neck pain
People also explore acupuncture for chronic pain in the shoulders and knees, for tension headaches and for muscle pain from trigger points.
Learn about trigger point injections
Acupuncture may be a good fit if you:
Your practitioner asks about your pain, health history and goals, and may examine the area.
You’ll rest comfortably while fine needles are placed. Most people feel little or nothing, or a mild ache or tingling at the needle site. Needles usually stay in place for about 15 to 30 minutes.
Many people feel relaxed afterward. You can usually return to normal activities right away.
Acupuncture is usually done as a series of sessions. Some people notice changes after a few visits, while others need more time. Your practitioner will review your progress and adjust the plan.
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When performed by a licensed practitioner using sterile needles, acupuncture has a low risk of serious side effects. Minor bruising, soreness or light-headedness can occur. Serious complications are rare.
Coverage for acupuncture varies. Some plans cover it for certain conditions, such as chronic low back pain, and others don’t. Our team can help you check your benefits.
Explore our pain management care →
Most people feel very little. You may notice a brief prick, a dull ache or a tingling sensation, which is usually mild.
It varies. Some people feel a difference after a few sessions and others need a longer course.
Yes. Acupuncture is often used alongside physical therapy, injections and other pain management care. Your team will coordinate your plan.
Acupuncture is available at our Rego Park office. Call (718) 275-5200 or request an appointment online.
Add acupuncture to your pain care plan. Schedule a visit at our Rego Park office.
