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Acupuncture FAQs

Updated: Mar 20

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long do the needles need to stay in?

The retention time for acupuncture needles varies based on different theories and traditions. Various cultures, including Japanese and Indian Asian practices, have their own beliefs regarding optimal retention times.

While some scientific theories suggest that 28 minutes allows for full circulation of qi, there is no universally agreed-upon standard. Instead, general guidelines are followed:

Yang Conditions (More active, more heat in the body) – Needles should be retained for a shorter duration. Children, who naturally have more yang energy, are often treated with alternative techniques like Shonishin, a Japanese method involving tapping and stroking instead of needles.
Yin Conditions (Less active, less heat, energy deficiency) – Needles may be retained for a longer duration to replenish energy.

At our clinic, we typically retain needles for 15 to 30 minutes per zone (front or back). We find that this duration effectively addresses most conditions while accommodating a patient's busy schedule. Retention for less than 10 minutes or more than 45 minutes generally does not provide additional benefits beyond the 20-30 minute range.

If needles are retained for 15-30 minutes, why is an hour required for my appointment?

An acupuncture appointment includes more than just needle retention. The one-hour time block allows for:

Getting settled in the treatment room
Relaxing the shen (mind) and body
Consultation with the practitioner to assess your condition and treatment plan
Needle retention (15-30 minutes per zone)
Additional therapies if needed (cupping, gua sha, ear seeds, home exercises)
Post-treatment discussion and planning for future sessions

Not all treatments require an hour, nor do they always involve secondary therapies. Treatment duration is determined by the practitioner's knowledge, experience, and the specific needs of the patient.

Why do some acupuncture treatments require electrical stimulation (the ‘TENS’ box)?

The electrical stimulation machines used in acupuncture differ from standard TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) units. While TENS devices provide strong electrical pulses to numb nerves and relieve pain temporarily, acupuncture electrical stimulation focuses on healing and regeneration.

How it works:

Acupuncture needles, made of stainless steel, conduct electricity down to the targeted point.
The stimulation machine allows control over frequency, voltage, and intensity.
Different frequencies serve different purposes:
- 150 Hz – Nerve regeneration
- 4 Hz – Tissue and muscle healing
More stimulation is not always better—different tissues absorb electrical pulses at varying rates.
Patients may feel a mild pulse or, in some cases, a stronger sensation. If necessary, needles are taped down to prevent displacement.

Unlike TENS, acupuncture electrical stimulation is not about numbing nerves but promoting regeneration and healing. The effectiveness depends on the practitioner's expertise in selecting the appropriate settings for each condition.

If you have any additional questions, feel free to ask your practitioner during your next visit!