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Frequently Asked Questions-
Acupuncture

Explore our comprehensive FAQ section to learn more about acupuncture, its benefits, and what to expect during your treatment at our Philadelphia clinic.

dry needling with athlete for pain relief

FAQ - Acupuncture in Philadelphia

Acupuncture near Northern Liberties, Philadelphia

What does acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture successfully treats many conditions by promoting the natural self-healing of the body. It is particularly effective for musculoskeletal disorders, migraine headaches, anxiety, depression, insomnia, digestive disorders, gynecological disorders, post-surgery trauma, and PTSD.

When should I get acupuncture?
Acupuncture can start to relieve your symptoms immediately. You can come for a treatment before or after work, a workout/yoga/run, and most anything else.

Why choose acupuncture over other medical modalities?
Acupuncture has minimal side effects when properly administered and enhances other medical treatments. It treats patients holistically, addressing the root cause of health concerns while treating symptoms for fast relief.

"...astronomically more progress than PT"

Summit is great!! Jason is incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and empathetic. Every time I come in, Jason asks me about how I have been since the last appointment, and asks lots of follow-up questions to get to the root of what's going on. I appreciate how frequently he performs assessments so that he knows exactly what to treat. I was able to make astronomically more progress with acupuncture than I had been making with physical therapy following a knee injury and I'm so thankful for Jason and Summit!

Google Review

FAQ - Acupuncturists in Philadelphia

Acupuncture near Fishtown, Philadelphia

How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture stimulates nerves and improves blood and lymphatic flow in the body. By calming the sympathetic nervous system, increasing blood and lymph flow, and releasing endorphins, acupuncture reduces inflammation and resets nerves, promoting healing and healthy function in all body systems.

Do the needles hurt?
The needles used in acupuncture are much smaller and thinner than those used at a doctor's office. The needling experience is unique and rarely painful; sometimes, a small pinch is felt, but it is generally painless.

Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?
No, you can believe whatever you like. Studies have shown that patients experience positive results regardless of their beliefs. Many skeptical patients become the biggest fans of acupuncture.

How many treatments do I need?
Most patients start seeing results during or soon after the first treatment. A majority of patients experience resolution or significant improvements in their health concerns after 4-12 treatments.

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FAQ - Best Acupuncture in Philadelphia

Acupuncture near Old City, Philadelphia

What are the benefits of acupuncture for stress and anxiety?
Acupuncture helps balance the body's energy, reduces stress hormones, and promotes relaxation. It can help with mental clarity, focus, and overall emotional well-being.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Yes, acupuncture is safe during pregnancy when performed by a licensed practitioner. It can help with pregnancy-related symptoms such as morning sickness, back pain, and fatigue.

Can acupuncture help with weight loss?
Acupuncture can aid weight loss by improving digestion, reducing cravings, and promoting a balanced metabolism. It is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

"...immediate relief from a longstanding running injury"

I loved my first session at Summit Acupuncture! Jason is incredibly smart, kind and dedicated to his work. His level of experience with endurance athletes was evident from the start. I felt immediate relief from a long-standing running injury and can’t wait to see what improvements the rest of my treatment will bring. Also, loved the office pup!!

Google Review

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What Should I Expect During My Acupuncture Treatment?

Welcome to Summit Acupuncture, located in Philadelphia, where we offer the time-honored practice of acupuncture to provide effective pain relief and help restore your body's function by targeting specific points along the meridians, the body's energy pathways. In this section, we will provide you with valuable insights on what to expect during your acupuncture treatment, enabling you to make an informed decision and be well-prepared.

Initial Consultation:
Our expert practitioners will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, taking into account your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals, before your acupuncture session. With this information, we can create a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs.

Preparation:
For your comfort during the acupuncture treatment, we recommend that you wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the treatment areas. We also provide draping to ensure your privacy during the session, regardless of your attire. We have plenty of drapes available to accommodate patients coming straight from work or a workout!

Acupuncture Procedure:
During acupuncture treatment, our experienced practitioners gently insert fine, sterile, single-use needles at specific points along the body's meridians, often with a slight tapping motion. You may feel a slight discomfort, pressure, or "dull ache" as the needle reaches the targeted area, which typically indicates effective stimulation of the body's energy flow. Although this sensation is usually brief, most patients report feeling it as unusual but not painful.

Duration:
Acupuncture treatments usually last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of your condition and the number of areas to be treated. Our practitioners continuously monitor your comfort and response to the treatment, making adjustments as needed to ensure optimal pain relief and effectiveness.

Post-Treatment Care:
After the treatment, some temporary soreness or stiffness in the treated areas may occur, which is a normal response that typically resolves within 24 to 48 hours. To promote optimal results and aid in recovery, we recommend gentle stretching, staying hydrated, and applying heat. We advise against using ice after acupuncture treatments and suggest using an Epsom salt bath soak, heating pad, or hot shower to apply heat. Additionally, we highly recommend Evil Bone Water or Dr. Guo's 37 Healing Salve post-treatment for pain conditions, both available for purchase at our office after your visit.

Follow-Up Acupuncture Appointments:
Depending on your specific condition and treatment goals, a series of acupuncture sessions may be necessary. Our practitioners will work with you to create a follow-up plan that best suits your needs, ensuring that you experience long-lasting pain relief and improved function.

At our acupuncture clinic, we prioritize providing the highest standard of care using evidence-based techniques like acupuncture. Our aim is to help you regain function and enjoy a pain-free life. If you're interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation, please contact us today.

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