Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture is an evidence-based, safe, effective, drug-free, and simple method used to help the body heal itself.

Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) were the only form of medicine used in China for several thousand years. It has since evolved to include more modernized, evidence-based approaches and methods to help people get well and stay healthy.

Although the mechanism(s) of action of acupuncture are theoretical at this point, evidence-based medicine in peer-reviewed journals is demonstrating that ‘acupuncture works as well as or better than current conventional biomedical practices’ to treat a number of conditions without the known negative side-effects of of those biomedical treatment methods.

Acupuncture is a technique in which practitioners stimulate specific points on the body by inserting thin, solid, sterile needles through the skin, which are activated through gentle and specific movements of the practitioner’s hand, with heat, or with electrical stimulation. By accessing these points, the acupuncturist is able to manipulate Qi (pronounced “chee”) in the body.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi (pronounced “chee”) is described as the ‘vital force’ which flows through the body to animate, protect, and nourish our body’s tissues. Acupuncture activates Qi and stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals which can relieve pain, regulate hormones, improve digestion, calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities, and promote overall physical and emotional well-being.

Acupuncture needles are very thin, flexible, and are made of solid stainless steel, as shown in this photo. They differ greatly from hypodermic needles used in doctors offices and hospitals which are thick, hollow, and used to inject liquids or to draw blood.

During insertion of an acupuncture needle, most patients feel a small pinch, if anything at all. Once the needles are in place, there is typically no discomfort or pain. Some patients describe a tingling, warming, or “not unpleasant” sensations at some needle locations. Most feel an overall sensation of relaxation and calm, and often fall asleep or rest deeply during their treatment.

Acupuncture is a medical procedure and that only be performed by practitioners that are licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure. Mississippi acupuncturists are required to have a Master’s degree (at minimum) and board certification by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).

Acupuncture is a sterile procedure, and by federal law, our needles are single-use and disposable to keep both patients and practitioners safe.

There are very few side-effects from acupuncture, the most common being bruising at the site of needle insertion. Acupuncture does not interfere with most prescription medications, but if you are taking blood thinners (Warfarin, coumadin, etc.) make sure to notify your acupuncturist before treatment.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete medical system that has been used to diagnose, treat and prevent illness for more than 3,000 years. The underlying principles of TCM dictate that qi (the body’s vital energy) flows along meridians or channels in the body and keep an individual’s spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health in balance.

TCM aims to restore the body’s balance and harmony between the natural opposing forces of yin and yang which can block the free flow of qi and lead to pain or cause disease.

TCM has evolved over thousands of years to include more modern practices used in clinics and hospitals today in China as well as in the United States. TCM includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, moxibustion, qigong, tai chi, Asian bodywork, nutrition and lifestyle advice, gua sha, and cupping.

To learn more, visit the Mississippi Oriental Medicine Association website.