Electro-acupuncture
Electro-acupuncture adds a small device to a regular acupuncture visit. Short wires clip to pairs of needles and pass a gentle pulse between them.
Who usually comes in
People who come in for stubborn muscle aches in the back, hip or legs sometimes ask for it, and some acupuncturists suggest it after a few ordinary visits.
A visit can include
- A regular acupuncture visit, plus a small device
- A gentle tapping or buzzing you can turn up or down
- Ten to twenty minutes with the device on
- Used only after you say yes
What a visit is like, in order
Afterward you may feel relaxed or a little tired. Mild soreness at a needle site can show up.
- 01
Step 1: We talk
Your acupuncturist asks about your health, checks that electro-acupuncture is suitable and explains how the device feels.
- 02
Step 2: The needles go in
Needles are placed as in a regular visit, at points chosen for you.
- 03
Step 3: The device goes on
Wires clip to pairs of needles. You choose how strong the pulse feels, and we turn it down if it is too much.
- 04
Step 4: You rest
The pulse runs for ten to twenty minutes. Your acupuncturist checks in, then removes the wires and the needles.
Tell us first
Say any of these when you book, and again at the visit.
Pregnancy
If you are or might be pregnant, some points are avoided, and your acupuncturist explains the risks.
Blood thinners or bleeding
If you take a blood thinner or bleed easily, bruising is more likely, and we plan around it.
A pacemaker or implant
Electro-acupuncture is not suitable with a pacemaker or another implanted device. We use regular needles instead.
Lymph nodes removed
If you have had lymph nodes removed, we avoid needles on that side.
Bleeding disorders
Tell us about any condition that affects clotting. We may skip some methods or choose fewer needles.
Worry about needles
Say so. We can start with other methods or go very slowly, and you can stop at any point.
How many visits, and what this does not do
We start with regular acupuncture and add the device only if you want it and it suits you. Your acupuncturist suggests how many visits to plan for, and you can stop at any time.
What it does not do
Electro-acupuncture does not replace your doctor's care. We do not promise a result, and we do not use the device if you would rather not.
When to see a doctor instead
See your doctor or an urgent care clinic first for chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness or numbness, a sudden severe headache, or a fever with a stiff neck. In an emergency, call 911.