What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and relieve pain. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and refined over thousands of years, it has also been extensively studied through modern clinical research and is recognized by the World Health Organization for a wide range of conditions.
At C.S. Physiotherapy & Wellness Centre, acupuncture is performed by physiotherapists with advanced training in the technique. It is always integrated into a broader assessment and treatment plan — used strategically to enhance the effects of manual therapy and exercise rehabilitation rather than as a standalone intervention.
How Acupuncture Works
From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, acupuncture works by restoring the flow of qi (vital energy) along pathways called meridians. When qi is blocked or imbalanced, pain and illness result.
Modern science offers complementary explanations: needle insertion at specific points stimulates the nervous system to release endorphins and other natural pain-modulating chemicals, reduces local inflammation, improves circulation, and influences the way pain signals are processed by the brain and spinal cord. In practice, these effects translate into meaningful pain relief for many patients.
Conditions Acupuncture Can Help
- Chronic neck and low back pain
- Tension headaches and migraines
- Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, and hands
- Shoulder pain and frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Fibromyalgia and widespread pain conditions
- Neuropathic pain and sciatica
- Post-surgical pain and scar tissue sensitivity
- Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy
- TMJ dysfunction and jaw pain
- Stress-related tension and sleep disruption
Acupuncture vs. Dry Needling
Both techniques use the same type of needle, but they differ in their theoretical foundation and point selection. Traditional acupuncture uses meridian-based points drawn from Chinese medicine practice. Dry needling is a Western technique targeting myofascial trigger points based on musculoskeletal anatomy.
In practice, the two approaches complement each other well, and many patients benefit from both. Your physiotherapist will recommend the most appropriate technique — or combination — based on your specific presentation.
No prior experience needed. Whether you've had acupuncture before or you're nervous about needles, our team will walk you through exactly what to expect. Many first-time patients are surprised by how comfortable and relaxing the experience is.
What to Expect During Your Session
Acupuncture is typically performed as part of your physiotherapy appointment. After a brief review of your current symptoms, your physiotherapist will select the appropriate acupuncture points and insert the needles, which are left in place for approximately 15–25 minutes.
Most people feel very little during needle insertion — a faint tingling or warmth is common. During the session, many patients find themselves deeply relaxed, and some even fall asleep. Afterward, you may feel a pleasant sense of ease and lightness in the treated area.
Mild, temporary soreness or light-headedness is possible after a session and typically resolves within an hour. Staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activity directly after treatment helps ensure the best response.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin — much finer than a standard injection needle — and most insertions are painless. A mild tingling or warmth at the needle site is common and considered a positive response. The overall experience is typically deeply relaxing.
Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
When performed by a registered physiotherapist as part of physiotherapy, it is typically covered under extended health benefits. Many plans also have a separate acupuncture benefit. Call us if you'd like help checking your coverage.
How quickly will I see results?
Some people notice relief after their first session. Others require 3–4 sessions before significant improvement is felt. Chronic conditions generally take longer than acute ones. Your physiotherapist will give you realistic expectations at your assessment.
Are there conditions where acupuncture isn't appropriate?
Acupuncture is not appropriate for people with certain bleeding disorders, those on specific blood-thinning medications, or in areas of active infection or skin conditions. Your physiotherapist will screen for contraindications before proceeding.
Can acupuncture be combined with other physiotherapy treatments?
Absolutely — in fact, combining acupuncture with manual therapy and exercise rehabilitation typically produces better outcomes than either approach alone. We integrate it as one tool in a comprehensive treatment plan.
Kingston's Choice for Integrative Physiotherapy
C.S. Physiotherapy & Wellness Centre is at 1479 John Counter Boulevard, Unit 201, Kingston, Ontario. We welcome patients from across Kingston and the surrounding region. Call 613-384-2664 or contact us online to book.