What Is Acupuncture? A Complete Guide from Maryville Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the fastest-growing forms of integrative care in the United States. More and more people are searching for safe, effective, and evidence-based options for managing health concerns like pain, stress, and sleep problems. If you’ve ever wondered “What exactly is acupuncture, and how can it help me?” this article provides the answers.
At Maryville Acupuncture, we believe patients deserve clear, professional information about their treatment options. This guide explains what acupuncture is, how it works, what conditions it may help with, and what to expect during an appointment.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a licensed healthcare practice that involves placing very fine, sterile needles at specific points on the body. These points are chosen based on both traditional diagnostic frameworks and modern research on physiology and neurology.
Unlike a hypodermic needle used for injections, acupuncture needles are solid, extremely thin, and designed to create minimal sensation when inserted.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Research suggests that acupuncture influences the body in several measurable ways:
Nervous system activation – Acupuncture points stimulate nerve pathways that affect the spinal cord and brain, influencing how pain is perceived.
Release of endorphins – These natural chemicals act as the body’s own painkillers.
Circulation improvement – Needling can increase local blood flow, which helps with tissue repair and inflammation reduction.
Hormonal regulation – Acupuncture can affect cortisol (the stress hormone), melatonin (important for sleep), and other signaling molecules.
Immune function support – Studies show acupuncture may help regulate immune responses.
In other words, acupuncture is not mystical — it is a therapy with physiological effects that can be measured in clinical studies.
Conditions Acupuncture May Help With
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have recognized acupuncture as a beneficial treatment for a wide variety of conditions. Patients often seek care for:
1. Pain Management
Chronic back pain
Neck and shoulder pain
Arthritis and joint pain
Headaches and migraines
Sports and overuse injuries
Post-surgical discomfort
Studies show acupuncture can reduce pain intensity and improve function, making it an important option for people seeking alternatives to long-term medication use.
2. Stress and Mental Health
Acupuncture has been shown to calm the sympathetic nervous system (the “fight-or-flight” response). Many patients report feeling more relaxed, less anxious, and better able to manage daily stress. It has also been studied as a complementary therapy for anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress.
3. Sleep Disorders
If you struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep, acupuncture may help. Research indicates that acupuncture can regulate melatonin production and improve sleep quality. Many patients notice that they rest more deeply after just a few sessions.
4. Digestive Concerns
Conditions such as nausea, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and functional dyspepsia may respond well to acupuncture. By influencing gut motility and nervous system regulation, treatments can ease discomfort and improve digestion.
5. Women’s Health and Reproductive Care
Acupuncture is frequently used to address:
Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)
Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause
Fertility support (on its own or alongside assisted reproductive technologies)
Nausea and discomfort during pregnancy
Many women find acupuncture an important part of managing health across different life stages.
6. Immune and General Health
Some patients seek acupuncture to reduce seasonal allergies, improve energy, and support overall wellness. While not a cure-all, acupuncture may play a supportive role in maintaining long-term health.
What to Expect at Maryville Acupuncture
For many people, the idea of acupuncture raises questions or concerns. Here’s what you can expect at Maryville Acupuncture:
Initial Consultation
We begin with a detailed conversation about your health history, current concerns, and goals. This helps us design a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Treatment Session
You’ll rest comfortably on a treatment table.
Very fine, sterile needles are placed at selected points. Most people describe little to no pain — often just a light pressure or tingling.
Needles typically remain in place for 40-60 minutes.
After the Session
Many patients feel deeply relaxed, and some even fall asleep during treatment. It’s common to notice immediate changes in stress levels, sleep, or pain, though chronic conditions may require a series of treatments for best results.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
Yes. Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a licensed acupuncturist. All needles are:
Single-use
Pre-sterilized
FDA-approved as medical devices
Side effects are rare and usually mild, such as slight bruising or soreness at the needle site. Acupuncture is non-addictive and does not interfere with most conventional treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most patients feel little or no discomfort. The needles are much thinner than those used for injections.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on your condition. Acute pain may improve within a few treatments, while chronic conditions often benefit from ongoing care.
Can acupuncture be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Many patients receive acupuncture alongside conventional medical care, physical therapy, or counseling.
Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance companies cover acupuncture for specific conditions, especially pain and nausea. Check with your provider for details.
Why Choose Maryville Acupuncture?
At Maryville Acupuncture, our mission is to provide safe, professional, and patient-centered care. We combine traditional acupuncture techniques with modern, evidence-based approaches. Each treatment plan is designed to meet your unique health needs.
Located conveniently in Maryville, we serve patients from surrounding areas including Alcoa, Knoxville, and Blount County.
Take the Next Step
If you’ve been considering acupuncture, now is an excellent time to explore its benefits. Whether you’re managing chronic pain, looking for better sleep, or seeking support for women’s health concerns, acupuncture offers a safe and research-supported option.
📞 Contact Maryville Acupuncture today to schedule your appointment and learn how acupuncture can support your health. We can be reached at 865-315-3157.