People seek acupuncture for a variety of health and wellness concerns. It is commonly used as a complementary treatment for back and neck pain, muscle and joint discomfort, headaches and migraines, sports injuries, menstrual discomfort, stress, and general wellness. River Stone Wellness also offers fertility acupuncture. Because every person’s health needs are different, your acupuncturist will assess your concerns and determine if acupuncture is appropriate for your individual situation.

Most people experience little to no discomfort during acupuncture because the needles used are extremely thin and are very different from the needles used for injections or blood tests. You may notice a brief pinch or sensations such as warmth, heaviness, tingling, or mild pressure around an acupuncture point. Once the needles are in place, many patients find the treatment relaxing. If anything feels uncomfortable during your appointment, let your acupuncturist know so the treatment can be adjusted.

Your first acupuncture visit begins with a discussion of your health history, current symptoms, concerns, and treatment goals. This information helps your acupuncturist develop an individualized treatment approach and determine which acupuncture points may be appropriate. Fine, sterile needles are then gently inserted into selected areas of the body and typically remain in place while you rest. Your acupuncturist will also discuss what to expect following treatment and if additional sessions may be beneficial.

The number and frequency of acupuncture treatments vary from person to person. Factors such as how long you’ve had your symptoms, their severity, your overall health, and your treatment goals can all influence your recommended schedule. Some people seek acupuncture for a short-term concern, while others incorporate regular sessions into a longer-term treatment or wellness plan. Your acupuncturist can recommend an appropriate treatment schedule after assessing your needs and can adjust it based on your progress.

Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified healthcare professional using appropriate techniques and sterile, single-use needles. Temporary effects such as minor soreness, bruising, or light bleeding at a needle site can occasionally occur. Be sure to tell your acupuncturist about your health history, medications, pregnancy, or other medical concerns before treatment so they can determine if any precautions or modifications are appropriate for you.

Acupuncture is included in many extended health benefit plans, but coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and individual policy. Some plans may have annual maximums or specific requirements regarding the practitioner providing treatment. River Stone Wellness offers direct billing for many benefit plans; however, direct billing and coverage are subject to your insurer’s policies. We recommend reviewing your benefits or contacting your insurance provider before your appointment if you’re unsure about your acupuncture coverage.

You can generally book an acupuncture appointment directly without obtaining a referral from a physician first. However, your extended health benefits provider may have its own requirements for reimbursement, so it’s worth checking your individual plan. Your acupuncturist may also recommend that you consult your physician or another healthcare professional if your symptoms require further assessment or fall outside the appropriate scope of acupuncture treatment.

Before your appointment, eat a light meal or snack and stay hydrated rather than arriving on an empty stomach. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that makes it easy to access areas such as your arms and lower legs. Bring information about medications, relevant health conditions, and your main concerns so you can discuss them with your acupuncturist. After treatment, give yourself time to rest, drink water, and pay attention to how your body responds.

Yes. Depending on your condition and treatment goals, acupuncture may be used alongside massage therapy, chiropractic care, physiotherapy, manual osteopathy, or other forms of healthcare. Combining treatments does not necessarily mean that more treatment is better, so it’s important that each service is appropriate for your individual needs. River Stone Wellness offers several wellness services in one location, making it convenient to develop a coordinated approach when multiple therapies are appropriate.