What Is Medical Acupuncture?
Medical acupuncture is a modern, evidence-based approach to acupuncture practiced by licensed physicians and other healthcare professionals with advanced medical training. It combines the principles of traditional acupuncture with contemporary knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and neuroscience to treat pain, stress-related conditions, and a wide range of chronic health concerns.
Unlike traditional acupuncture, which is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) concepts such as meridians and qi, medical acupuncture is grounded in Western medical science. Treatments are tailored based on a patient’s diagnosis, medical history, and current health conditions.
How Does Medical Acupuncture Work?
From a medical perspective, acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, triggering a cascade of beneficial effects throughout the body. Research shows that acupuncture can:
By targeting specific acupuncture points, medical acupuncture helps restore balance within the nervous system and supports the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Conditions Treated With Medical Acupuncture
Medical acupuncture is commonly used to treat:
It is often used alone or as a complement to conventional medical treatments, physical therapy, or lifestyle-based care.
What Makes Medical Acupuncture Different?
The key distinction of medical acupuncture is that it is performed by a physician with full medical training. This means:
Medical acupuncturists understand how acupuncture interacts with medications, chronic diseases, and other therapies—making it a safe and effective option for many patients.
Is Medical Acupuncture Safe?
When performed by a trained medical professional, acupuncture is extremely safe. The needles used are sterile, single-use, and very thin. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and often find treatments deeply relaxing.
Side effects are rare and typically mild, such as temporary soreness or minor bruising at the needle site.
What to Expect During a Medical Acupuncture Visit
Your visit begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation. Your physician will review your health history, symptoms, and goals before creating a personalized treatment plan.
During the session, fine needles are placed at selected points and left in place for approximately 20–30 minutes. Many patients feel relaxed, calm, or energized afterward, and improvements may be noticed after the first session or over a series of treatments.
Medical Acupuncture at Acupuncture & Wellness MD
At Acupuncture & Wellness MD, medical acupuncture is practiced by a board-certified physician who blends conventional medicine with integrative therapies to treat the whole person—not just symptoms. Our goal is to help you feel better, function better, and live healthier using safe, natural, and effective treatments.
If you are looking for lasting relief that truly improves your quality of life, schedule an appointment with Dr. Lori Schneider at Acupuncture & Wellness MD at 704-896-5591 or request an appointment on our website at www.drlorischneider.com
