Pretty much everything. Acupuncture supports immune function and relaxes the nervous system. It improves circulation, elevates mood, alleviates pain, and supports healthy digestion. It is best known and most strongly supported by research for treating chronic pain, including low back pain, neck pain, sciatica, tendonitis, knee pain, hip pain, osteoarthritis, headaches and more. It has been shown to be effective for stress, anxiety, insomnia, depression, digestive complaints, and as a supportive therapy for fertility and women's health. It is highly useful for treating chronic illness and autoimmune disease. See our list of the common conditions acupuncture treats here. 

A typical first visit lasts around 60 minutes. We will begin with an in-depth intake, asking not only about your primary complaint but also about sleep, digestion, energy levels, diet, lifestyle habits, stress levels and emotional well-being. This may also include pulse and/or tongue diagnosis, and palpation, which provides additional clues about the state of the body's internal balance. 

You then lie comfortably while a small number of ultra-thin, sterile needles are inserted at carefully selected points. Most people feel little to no insertion pain; a brief pinch or a sensation of dull ache, warmth, or tingling may follow, which is considered a normal sign that the treatment is working. The needles remain in place for 15 to 30 minutes, during which patients typically rest deeply. Afterward, it is common to feel relaxed, calm, or subtly energized. A treatment plan often involves a series of sessions, with the frequency decreasing as health improves. 

Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a qualified, licensed practitioner using sterile needles (all needles in the US are sterile, sealed and single use). The most 

common side effects are minor, such as slight bruising or temporary soreness, with serious complications being very rare