Acupuncture is extremely safe when performed by a trained acupuncturist. Research has shown that acupuncture is 99.8% free from even minor adverse events. There is a risk of minor bruising near insertion sites but this happens infrequently.
High quality, disposable needles are always used.
Research has also shown that acupuncture is outstandingly safe for pregnant women and children. Children under 6 respond well to acupressure and other non-needle techniques, so they are not needled.
The more common "side effects" of acupuncture are desirable. Patients often comment that they feel more relaxed or energized after a treatment. They also report improvement in symptoms other than their chief complaints because acupuncture helps balance the whole body. Many patients come even after their symptoms are gone. Regular "tune-up" treatments can reduce stress, support the immune system and promote overall wellbeing.
There are some rare situations where acupuncture is contraindicated. These situations can occur as the result of cancer treatments.
If you are undergoing cancer treatments, consult your doctor to make sure these situations do not apply to you.
I am grateful to have the opportunity to tell anyone reading this about my experience with Kristin over the years. She is a skilled acupuncturist whose approach, always kind and compassionate, makes patients feel at ease and respected. She listens attentively, intuitively decides on a course of treatment, follows through with gentleness, listening and responding to feedback from her patients. She brings a deep knowledge and understanding of the human body and the very subtle signs indicating areas that are out of balance. She has successfully treated me for a variety of health difficulties, large and small. I have never been disappointed in the outcome of her treatments and am grateful to have such a competent, wise, and compassionate person supporting me in my quest to maintain and improve my health. -C.L.