Is acupuncture painful?
No. Acupuncture uses ultra-fine, sterile needles that most people barely feel. The needles are extremely fine, about the width of a human hair. Some patients report a mild tingling or warmth at the insertion site. In certain cases, patients might feel a slight heaviness around the needle site. This is completely normal and usually short-lived.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your condition and every patient is different. Some people feel relief after one session. Acute issues may improve in 2-4 sessions while chronic or complex conditions may require multiple treatments for lasting results. Your acupuncturist will discuss a tailored plan at your first visit.
Is acupuncture covered by extended health insurance?
Yes! Acupuncture is covered by most extended health plans in BC, including ICBC if you're recovering from a car accident and Worksafe BC if you’re recovering from a workplace injury. Our front desk team can help you verify your benefits and coverage.
Do acupuncture practitioners only use needles?
Not at all. Acupuncturists at Backs in Action often incorporate other TCM techniques based on your condition, such as:
- Cupping
- Gua Sha (a gentle scraping method to promote blood flow)
- Electroacupuncture (gentle electrical stimulation through the needles)
- Moxibustion (a warming technique using mugwort)
- Tui Na massage (a form of therapeutic bodywork)
What is cupping and is it part of acupuncture?
Cupping is a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique often used alongside acupuncture. It involves placing glass or silicone cups on the skin to create suction, which helps improve circulation, release muscle tension, and promote detoxification. You may see circular marks afterward. These are not bruises but actually signs of stagnant blood being drawn to the surface and will fade in a few days.
What conditions does acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture can support a wide range of issues, including:
- Musculoskeletal pain (back, neck, joints)
- Headaches and migraines
- Stress, anxiety, and insomnia
- PMS, irregular cycles, and fertility concerns for both men and women
- Digestive issues (IBS, bloating, constipation)
- Allergies and sinus congestion
- Injury recovery and athletic performance
For more on this check out our blogs and relevant acupuncture pages on our website.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. When performed by a Registered Acupuncturist like those at Backs in Action, acupuncture is safe, sterile, and regulated. Our practitioners are licensed, experienced, and trained in anatomy and patient safety.
Can I get acupuncture if I’m pregnant?
Absolutely—prenatal acupuncture is safe and effective for managing pregnancy-related symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, lower back pain, and pelvic discomfort. Always let your acupuncturist know if you are pregnant so they can tailor your treatment accordingly.
Can acupuncture work alongside other treatments?
Absolutely. In fact, many of our patients benefit most when acupuncture is combined with other services like physiotherapy, chiropractic care, or massage therapy. Our team communicates across disciplines to ensure you are receiving the best care.