How Many Acupuncture Treatments Do I Need?


The number of treatments that you will require is dependent on several factors: your condition, the severity of it, and how long you have had the concern (injury/disease/pain/illness).

For acute condtions, that have come on quickly, it may take very few treatments (less than 4).  For long-standing conditions, it may take 12 or more.  Every person has a different response rate, but by the 4th visit (if not sooner) most people will report having better quality of life (sleep, energy, pain relief, emotional/ mental health). 

Especially in the beginning, treatments are most effective when done 2-3 times per week, or at least weekly.  After a treatment, most patients will report relief of symptoms for 2-3 days (variable); so it is important to stimulate points on the patient again to allow the body to have consistent stimulation which allows the body's to change smoothly.  Gradually relief will become longer and longer.  This modality of medicine works by helping the body to re-establish a new pattern and has been called the "cumulative effect" of acupuncture, and traditional Asian therapies.  

Once the body is at a more stable state, less frequent treatments will be necessary.  It is best to discuss a plan that suits your goals, & what seems most appropriate for your needs and situation.   

Some people report no real concerns but find weekly or even monthly visits helpful in keeping balanced & healthy.  Prevention is the best medicine.

It is not uncommon for people to come get a treatment for preventive purposes and enjoy the relaxing benefits of acupuncture and shiatsu.