How Often Should You Get Acupuncture?

Treatment frequency is an often under discussed topic in many areas of healthcare, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). A common misconception is that acupuncture is “magic” and can “cure” an ailment with just one treatment. Though it can happen, it’s unlikely your concerns will resolve with just one treatment. The effects of acupuncture are cumulative, similar to working out at the gym. Going once is great, but being consistent is how you get results. So how many treatments will you need?

Every Body Is Different

The number of treatments someone needs entirely depends on the individual. How long have you had the issue? Was there an injury? Do you have a diagnosis? What helps? What makes it worse? What is your age? Are you willing to be consistent with at home care? Will you consider herbal medicine and supplementation if needed?

All of these questions can influence how long it takes to feel better. That said, there are a few guidelines I use to help give you an idea of the level of commitment Traditional Chinese Medicine typically requires.

Chronic Conditions 

Research on acupuncture consistently shows that frequent treatments are essential for achieving effective results. For chronic conditions lasting more than a year, we typically start with 6 to 8 weekly treatments. Once you begin to see improvement in your symptoms, we’ll gradually space out the sessions every 2 to 3 weeks until symptoms are resolved or more manageable. When you're feeling stable, once monthly maintenance treatments are suggested as preventative care.

Flare-Ups 

If you're on a monthly maintenance plan and experience a flare-up, weekly sessions are recommended until your symptoms improve. Since your baseline has changed from the initial series, recovery often occurs more quickly, typically 1-2 treatments. 

New Concerns 

For acute conditions (lasting less than 3 months), 1 month of treatment with 1 to 2 sessions per week is typical. After that, we’ll reassess and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Healthcare is Forever

Understanding the commitment involved in TCM treatment can help shift our expectations and perspective on what healthcare truly means. I operate my practice in a collaborative way that requires your participation. I may only see you once a week, which means the other 167 hours are an opportunity to practice lifestyle habits that support your health.

Healthcare shouldn’t be miserable and fleeting. I’m here to guide you and provide tools that help make it a supportive and nourishing part of your daily life.

With care,

Kecia Fox, MSOM, LAc