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How Do I Know If My Acupuncture Is Working, What Are The Physical Responses?

Updated: Apr 18


Acupuncture, Massage, Cupping at Acute Acupuncture 163 The Terrace, Wellington Central, Wellington.
Acupuncture, Massage, Cupping at Acute Acupuncture 163 The Terrace, Wellington Central, Wellington.

Acupuncture, massage, and cupping are three popular alternative medical practices that help alleviate pain, improve circulation, and promote overall well-being. While the effectiveness of these therapies may be subjective, some physical responses can indicate the success of these treatments. When we receive these treatments, we must know if they work and what physical responses we may have. We may also want to know what to expect after acupuncture, massage, and cupping treatment and how we may feel after.



Does Acupuncture Work? One key sign that acupuncture, massage, and cupping are working is the sensation of warmth or tingling that may occur in the area being treated. This is often a sign that the therapy stimulates blood flow and promotes healing in the affected areas. Another sign that acupuncture, massage, and cupping may work is the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. Many patients report feeling relaxed and less stressed after their sessions, which may be attributed to the release of these feel-good hormones.



Why's My Acupuncturist Want To See My Tongue? Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into specific points of the body to stimulate the flow of energy. To know if acupuncture is working, one may feel a sense of relaxation and calmness as the needles are inserted. There may also be a tingling sensation or a slight ache at the insertion site, indicating that the acupuncture point has been activated. After acupuncture treatment, one may feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and energized. While some people may notice an immediate improvement in their symptoms, others may experience a more gradual improvement over time. In some muscular-skeletal treatments with acupuncture for injuries, patients sometimes may experience some aggravation to the site as the needle goes to the origin and the insertion of the affected muscles. This may last an hour to twenty-four hours; in some cases, this may even last up to seventy-two hours post-treatment. It's essential to check in with your acupuncturist for your benefit to see how long this lasted so they know they are not overdoing it.


Massage involves the manipulation of soft tissues to improve circulation and promote healing. Physical responses from massage can include improved flexibility, decreased muscle tension, and reduced pain and inflammation. During a massage, one may experience a sense of relaxation and release as muscles are kneaded and stretched. After a massage, one may feel a sense of calm and relaxation, as well as improved physical mobility and reduced pain. Like acupuncture, you may also feel tightness or some aggravation in the affected areas from your massage. It's important to let your practitioner know what you experience; this way, they can dial up the intensity or reduce it to suit your desired outcome better.


Cupping is another alternative medical practice that involves the placement of glass cups on the skin to improve circulation and promote healing. Physical responses from cupping can include improved circulation, reduced muscle tension, and decreased pain and inflammation. During a cupping session, one may feel a pulling or stretching sensation as the cups are applied to the skin. After a session, a patient may feel a sense of relief, improved physical mobility, and reduced pain. With cupping, it is not uncommon to experience temporary marks or bruises on the skin where the cups were placed. These marks are painless and will fade within a few days or weeks. They are a sign that the therapy successfully promoted blood flow and released tension in the affected area. The marks indicate that toxins are being removed from the musculature in the affected area. It's essential to stay well hydrated after your treatments so your body can process these toxins and remove them from the body. If you have some big event where you may have an opened-backed dress for your benefit, you must notify your practitioner of this unless you don't mind these markets showing at your event.


Cupping Therapy at Acute Acupuncture After a session of acupuncture, massage, or cupping, it is expected to feel relaxed and rejuvenated. You may also feel improved well-being, reduced stress and anxiety, and better sleep quality. It is important to note that individuals may respond differently to these treatments and vary from person to person. Some people may experience significant relief from their symptoms, while others may not notice much difference. The sensation of warmth or tingling, the release of endorphins, and marks on the skin after cupping are all signs that these therapies may be effective. So, it is crucial to communicate with your practitioner about your individual experience. The success of these treatments may be influenced by various factors, including the severity and duration of the condition being treated, as well as the overall health and lifestyle of the patient. It is essential to talk to a qualified practitioner to discuss your individual needs and ensure that you are receiving appropriate care for the condition you are receiving.



Acupuncture, massage, and cupping are alternative medical practices that can provide numerous physical and emotional benefits. One may experience physical responses such as improved circulation, decreased pain and inflammation, and increased flexibility to know if these treatments are working. After treatments, one may feel relaxed, energized, and rejuvenated. Communicating with your practitioner about your experience is essential to ensure you receive the maximum benefits from these treatments. Click the button below and book a complementary 15-minute consultation at Acute Acupuncture Wellington; let's discuss if acupuncture is right for you. Thank you for taking the time to read this Blog Post. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this post with others. If you have any questions or concerns, check out Acute-Acupuncture Wellington Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), as we find this helps answer most people's questions. Leave a comment below.


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