FAQ: Your Acupuncture Questions in Jacksonville, Answered
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints, to help restore balance, stimulate healing, and promote overall well-being. Acupuncture is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce stress, and support the body’s natural healing processes.
How does acupuncture work?
According to traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture works by balancing the flow of energy—or Qi (pronounced "chee")—through pathways in the body called meridians. When this energy becomes blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to physical or emotional symptoms. Acupuncture helps to clear these blockages and restore proper energy flow.
In modern biomedical terms, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system, improve circulation, release endorphins, and regulate the body’s stress and immune responses.
What is dry needling? Is is the same or different as acupuncture?
Dry needling is a form of acupuncture that also uses thin, sterile needles and is based on Western anatomy and physical therapy principles rather than traditional Chinese medicine. It’s primarily used to treat muscle pain and dysfunction by targeting myofascial trigger points—tight “knots” in the muscle that can cause pain and limit movement.
While dry needling and acupuncture both involve needles, there are some differences and similarities:
Our Private Room Acupuncturists combine both traditional acupuncture and acupuncture dry needling to address local pain. If you’re unsure which approach is right for you, we’ll be happy to guide you based on your specific goals and condition.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, when performed by a qualified and licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture is very safe. We use only single-use, sterile needles and follow strict hygiene protocols. Most patients experience no side effects, though minor bruising, light bleeding, or temporary soreness at the needle sites can occasionally occur.
Your safety and comfort are always our top priorities.
Does acupuncture hurt?
No, not generally. Most people are surprised by how comfortable it is. The needles are extremely fine—much thinner than hypodermic needles used for injections—and are inserted gently. You may feel a brief prick, a tingling sensation, or a dull ache when the needle is placed, but many patients find the experience deeply relaxing.
What conditions can acupuncture help with?
Acupuncture has been shown to support a wide range of physical, emotional, and neurological conditions, including:
Many people also use acupuncture as part of a regular wellness routine to support immunity, mental clarity, and emotional balance.
How many treatments will I need?
Treatment frequency varies depending on your condition, its severity, and how your body responds. Some patients experience noticeable relief after just 1–3sessions; others may need a series of treatments, especially for chronic or complex issues, which often require a 3 month treatment plan. Your practitioner will provide a personalized treatment plan at your initial consultation.
Many patients enjoy receiving regular mainteance treatments after their initial treatment plan is over to help
What happens during my first visit?
Your first appointment will begin with a full consultation to understand your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. We’ll ask about your sleep, digestion, stress levels, and other relevant factors to create a holistic picture of your health.
After the consultation, you’ll lie comfortably on a treatment table while the needles are gently inserted. They typically remain in place for 25–40 minutes. Many patients feel deeply relaxed or even fall asleep during treatment.
Is there anything I should do before or after my session?
Before your session:
After your session:
Following these guidelines helps your body integrate the benefits of treatment more effectively.
Can I combine acupuncture with other therapies?
Yes, acupuncture can safely be combined with other treatments, including:
If you’re currently receiving care from other providers, we’re happy to collaborate to ensure a coordinated and supportive treatment plan.
What is the Cost?
We offer several affordable options for our cash pay patients. Click here to see the pricing for acupuncture at The Wellness Hub in Jacksonville, Florida.
Do you accept insurance?
We do accept some insurance plans that cover acupuncture. Coverage varies widely depending on your provider and plan. We recommend contacting your insurance company to confirm your benefits. Our office can assist with verifying coverage and submitting any necessary paperwork. Click here to verify your insurance for acupuncture coverage.
Is acupuncture right for me?
Acupuncture is a gentle, time-tested therapy that can support many aspects of physical and emotional health. It’s suitable for most people and can be especially beneficial for those looking for a natural, drug-free approach to healing.
If you're curious but unsure, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. We’ll take the time to understand your needs and help you decide whether acupuncture—or dry needling—is the right fit for your goals.
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints, to help restore balance, stimulate healing, and promote overall well-being. Acupuncture is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce stress, and support the body’s natural healing processes.
How does acupuncture work?
According to traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture works by balancing the flow of energy—or Qi (pronounced "chee")—through pathways in the body called meridians. When this energy becomes blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to physical or emotional symptoms. Acupuncture helps to clear these blockages and restore proper energy flow.
In modern biomedical terms, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system, improve circulation, release endorphins, and regulate the body’s stress and immune responses.
What is dry needling? Is is the same or different as acupuncture?
Dry needling is a form of acupuncture that also uses thin, sterile needles and is based on Western anatomy and physical therapy principles rather than traditional Chinese medicine. It’s primarily used to treat muscle pain and dysfunction by targeting myofascial trigger points—tight “knots” in the muscle that can cause pain and limit movement.
While dry needling and acupuncture both involve needles, there are some differences and similarities:
- Philosophy: Traditional acupuncture is rooted in Eastern medicine, focusing on restoring balance and energy flow; dry needling is based on Western medicine and aims to release muscle tension and improve mobility. However, acupuncturists also use local treatment of trigger points to treat pain and muscle dysfunction.
- Technique: Acupuncture involves placing needles at specific acupoints along meridians; dry needling is typically focused on muscular or trigger point locations. An acupuncturist trained in both dry needling and traditional acupuncture will often combine both techniques.
- Purpose: Acupuncture treats a wide range of physical, emotional, and internal conditions; dry needling is mainly used for pain, injuries, and muscular imbalances.
Our Private Room Acupuncturists combine both traditional acupuncture and acupuncture dry needling to address local pain. If you’re unsure which approach is right for you, we’ll be happy to guide you based on your specific goals and condition.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, when performed by a qualified and licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture is very safe. We use only single-use, sterile needles and follow strict hygiene protocols. Most patients experience no side effects, though minor bruising, light bleeding, or temporary soreness at the needle sites can occasionally occur.
Your safety and comfort are always our top priorities.
Does acupuncture hurt?
No, not generally. Most people are surprised by how comfortable it is. The needles are extremely fine—much thinner than hypodermic needles used for injections—and are inserted gently. You may feel a brief prick, a tingling sensation, or a dull ache when the needle is placed, but many patients find the experience deeply relaxing.
What conditions can acupuncture help with?
Acupuncture has been shown to support a wide range of physical, emotional, and neurological conditions, including:
- Chronic and acute pain (back, neck, joints, sciatica, etc.)
- Headaches and migraines
- Stress, anxiety, and depression
- Insomnia and sleep issues
- Digestive problems (IBS, nausea, bloating)
- Menstrual irregularities, fertility support, and menopausal symptoms
- Allergies and sinus congestion
- Fatigue and burnout
Many people also use acupuncture as part of a regular wellness routine to support immunity, mental clarity, and emotional balance.
How many treatments will I need?
Treatment frequency varies depending on your condition, its severity, and how your body responds. Some patients experience noticeable relief after just 1–3sessions; others may need a series of treatments, especially for chronic or complex issues, which often require a 3 month treatment plan. Your practitioner will provide a personalized treatment plan at your initial consultation.
Many patients enjoy receiving regular mainteance treatments after their initial treatment plan is over to help
What happens during my first visit?
Your first appointment will begin with a full consultation to understand your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. We’ll ask about your sleep, digestion, stress levels, and other relevant factors to create a holistic picture of your health.
After the consultation, you’ll lie comfortably on a treatment table while the needles are gently inserted. They typically remain in place for 25–40 minutes. Many patients feel deeply relaxed or even fall asleep during treatment.
Is there anything I should do before or after my session?
Before your session:
- Eat a light meal or snack to avoid treatment on an empty stomach.
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing.
- Avoid strenuous activity, alcohol, or caffeine just before treatment.
After your session:
- Stay hydrated.
- Rest and listen to your body.
- Avoid intense exercise or stress for a few hours, if possible.
Following these guidelines helps your body integrate the benefits of treatment more effectively.
Can I combine acupuncture with other therapies?
Yes, acupuncture can safely be combined with other treatments, including:
- Physical therapy and chiropractic care
- Massage therapy - offered at The Wellness Hub
- Herbal medicine and supplements
- Counseling or mental health support
- Conventional medical care
If you’re currently receiving care from other providers, we’re happy to collaborate to ensure a coordinated and supportive treatment plan.
What is the Cost?
We offer several affordable options for our cash pay patients. Click here to see the pricing for acupuncture at The Wellness Hub in Jacksonville, Florida.
Do you accept insurance?
We do accept some insurance plans that cover acupuncture. Coverage varies widely depending on your provider and plan. We recommend contacting your insurance company to confirm your benefits. Our office can assist with verifying coverage and submitting any necessary paperwork. Click here to verify your insurance for acupuncture coverage.
Is acupuncture right for me?
Acupuncture is a gentle, time-tested therapy that can support many aspects of physical and emotional health. It’s suitable for most people and can be especially beneficial for those looking for a natural, drug-free approach to healing.
If you're curious but unsure, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. We’ll take the time to understand your needs and help you decide whether acupuncture—or dry needling—is the right fit for your goals.