Electroacupuncture
Electroacupuncture adds a small device to a regular acupuncture visit. After the needles are in, thin clips connect two of them to the device, which sends a gentle, steady pulse between them for a few minutes. You set the strength with your acupuncturist and can ask us to turn it down at any time.
Who usually comes in
It may be offered to people with long-running aches in a large muscle, such as the low back or the thigh, when a visit with needles alone has felt like not quite enough. Many people never need it.
What a visit is like, in order
- 01
Step 1: We talk
We ask about pacemakers, implanted devices and anything that could make a pulse unsuitable.
- 02
Step 2: Needles go in
The visit begins as an ordinary acupuncture visit, with sterile, single-use needles.
- 03
Step 3: The pulse starts
Clips join two needles to the device. We raise the strength slowly until you feel a tapping or hum.
- 04
Step 4: You rest
The pulse runs for a few minutes. Say so right away if it is ever uncomfortable and we turn it down.
Afterward, and how many visits
What you may feel afterward
Muscles near the needles can twitch lightly during the pulse and feel a little tired afterward. Most people feel relaxed or sleepy. Tell us at your next visit how you felt.
How many visits
Electroacupuncture is added by choice, one visit at a time. We suggest a plan at your first visit, never a promise, and you can change it whenever you like.
Tell us first
A pacemaker or implanted device
We do not use electrical pulses with a pacemaker or similar device. Tell us before your visit.
Pregnancy
Tell us if you are or might be pregnant. We choose a different approach.
Seizures or a heart condition
Tell us about any, and we talk with you about whether to use it at all.
Blood thinners or bleeding
Marks are darker and last longer if you take a blood thinner or bruise easily.
Metal implants
Tell us about plates, screws or joint replacements so we can place the clips carefully.
Needle fear
Tell us at booking. We go slowly and can skip the pulse.
What it does not do, and when to see a doctor instead
Electroacupuncture does not replace your doctor's care, and it is not a stronger form of anything else. We cannot promise a result, and results vary from person to person.
See your doctor or an urgent care clinic first for chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness or numbness, a sudden severe headache, new trouble controlling your bladder or bowels, or a fever with a stiff neck. In an emergency, call 911.
How paying works is on our fees page, and your first visit is a short message away.