Acupuncture: Small Needles, Real Impact

Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years, but the way it's used in our Burlington clinic looks different from the version most people picture. Modern acupuncture pulls on both the traditional Chinese system and contemporary medical evidence — and the two together, used appropriately, can be remarkably effective.

What acupuncture actually is

The basic procedure is the same regardless of style: very thin, sterile, single-use needles inserted into specific points on the body. Most patients feel a brief pinch when the needle goes in, then either nothing or a dull, heavy sensation. Acupuncture needles are much thinner than the ones used for blood draws or injections.

Two approaches under one roof

Traditional acupuncture

Based on patterns from classical Chinese medicine. Points are chosen based on a holistic assessment of the body's energy, organ systems, and presenting symptoms. It works particularly well for systemic issues, stress-related symptoms, and constitutional patterns.

Contemporary medical (neurofunctional) acupuncture

Targets specific peripheral nerves and muscle dysfunction, often combined with mild electrical stimulation. The needle placement follows anatomy and neuroscience rather than meridians. This is the version that's most directly studied and most often integrated with physiotherapy and chiropractic care.

Both approaches have a place. Some conditions respond better to one, some to the other, some to both.

What it's good for

• Chronic pain — back pain, neck pain, joint pain that hasn't fully responded to other treatment
• Headaches and migraines, particularly tension and cervicogenic headaches
• Tendon issues like tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy
• Nerve-related symptoms — sciatica, peripheral neuropathy, carpal tunnel symptoms
• Muscle tension and trigger points that aren't releasing with stretching alone
• Stress and sleep issues, especially the physical components
• As an adjunct to physio or chiro to speed recovery

What it's not

Acupuncture isn't magic, and it isn't the only thing you need. We don't recommend it as a standalone treatment plan for most conditions — it works best inside a broader plan that addresses the underlying cause. If a clinic is selling you 30 acupuncture sessions for back pain without addressing why your back hurts, that's not how it should work.

What to expect at a session

• Assessment first — we figure out what's going on before deciding if needles are part of the answer.
• 10-20 needles, depending on the issue, placed at specific points.
• Needles stay in for about 15-30 minutes. Most patients find the session relaxing.
• Some people feel immediate change. Others feel it the next day. A few feel mildly tired afterward — that's normal.

How many sessions

Most patients notice change within 3-6 sessions. Acute issues sometimes resolve in 1-2 sessions; chronic conditions take longer. We re-assess regularly so you're not coming in indefinitely without a clear reason.