Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Eastern medicine based on holistic healthcare. It’s used to manage pain, relieve stress and boost the body’s natural healing processes.

Holistic Care for You

About acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Eastern medicine based on holistic healthcare. It’s used to manage pain, relieve stress and boost the body’s natural healing processes.

Very fine needles, about the size of a human hair, are placed into specific points in the body to treat many conditions and promote healing.

When to seek help

Acupuncture treatments often improve chronic pain, digestion, relieve headaches, alleviate anxiety, depression or insomnia. Patients often report more energy or alertness, and improved sleep.  Women often report help alleviating painful or heavy periods, along with mood support or increased energy during PMS/period time. Women with hormonal hot flashes can reduce intensity or number of hot flashes with acupuncture.

Chronic pain does not have to be at a high level before patients seek help. It is better to get help early or often if a condition is relatively new or starting to become stubborn.

Acupuncture help for pregnant women

Acupuncture can relieve pregnancy pain, nausea, headaches, and migraines. It can be helpful in place of migraine medications that you can't take during pregnancy, and it can also be helpful if you have early signs of preeclampsia or a history of preeclampsia.  

What to expect at your first appointment

At your first appointment, we will talk about your main issue and your whole health so that we can create the best treatment plan for you. Your acupuncturist will listen to your concerns, learn about your diagnoses and what you’ve tried in the past, provide a thorough examination, and create a personal treatment plan based on your needs and diagnoses.

When we treat the whole person, results are often longer lasting and faster than if we only focus on the main issue. For example, if we improve digestion that can relieve certain types of chronic headaches.

About the acupuncturist

It is performed by a licensed acupuncturist who has a master's degree in traditional East Asian Chinese medicine. Your acupuncturist coordinates with your primary care provider and other medical providers as needed, blending both Eastern and Western medicine.

NH+C also has some physical therapists who have training in acupuncture and provide acupuncture during their physical therapy treatments with patients which is often referred to as dry needling.

Acupuncture is good for:

  • Pain relief (acute and chronic)
  • Digestive complaints
  • Headaches
  • Migraines
  • Joint stiffness
  •  Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Allergies
  • Pregnancy or chemo related nausea
  • and more.

Other treatments used with Acupuncture

  • Besides acupuncture, other treatment methods may include:  
  • Electro- stimulation
  • Gua sha (a tool used to scrape/ massage the skin to increase circulation and relieve pain)
  • Cupping
  • Infrared heat lamp (used for warmth and to reduce arthritis type inflammation and pain)
  • Liniment for pain relief
  • Herbal therapy. East Asian medicine is minimally invasive, generally effective, well- tolerated, low risk, complementary, whole person care.

Service Locations

Frequently Asked Questions

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes. Our acupuncturist is licensed and certified has a master's degree in traditional East Asian Chinese medicine. We only use single use needles that are disposed of after treatment.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Some people feel nothing, while others describe different sensations such as a dull ache, tingling or a radiating sensation.

Will you see kids?

We see children 13 years of age or older.

Do I need a referral?

You may or may not need a referral. It’s best to call your insurance company to see if a referral is needed. A referral from your primary care provider is preferred to support medical necessity. Referrals are required for Medicare, motor vehicle accidents and worker’s compensation.

Will insurance cover my acupuncture treatments?

Most insurance companies cover acupuncture treatments. It’s best to call your insurance company to check your coverage. Call the number on the back of your card.

Our Team of Doctors and Providers

Sher McClelland
McClelland, Sher
Acupuncture