Acupuncture in St. Cloud
As a board-certified chiropractic acupuncturist (licensed as of March 2024), Dr. Alex offers this complementary healing approach alongside traditional chiropractic care.
Two Perspectives on a Powerful Healing Art
Traditional Chinese medicine views acupuncture as a way to balance the flow of energy, or Qi, through the body’s meridians. When Qi doesn’t flow freely, it can cause illness and discomfort. Acupuncture helps restore this flow and return the body to optimal health.
From a Western medical perspective, acupuncture stimulates nerves, muscles, and connective tissue at specific points. This stimulation boosts the body’s natural painkillers and releases beneficial chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain, promoting healing and overall well-being.
Comfortable, Virtually Painless Treatment
Many people hesitate to try acupuncture because they associate needles with discomfort. Rest assured, the acupuncture experience is quite different from what you might expect. The needles used are as thin as a human hair—most of the time, you won’t even feel them being inserted. If there is any sensation, it’s typically just a momentary initial prick.
If you’re particularly nervous about needles, Dr. Alex also offers acupressure, which uses gentle pressure instead of needles.
What to Expect During Your Session
Your treatment will take place in a quiet, comfortable setting. After the painless placement of the needles, you’ll rest peacefully for about 15-30 minutes while the treatment takes effect. Many patients find this time deeply relaxing; some even fall asleep!
Because acupuncture works cumulatively, it’s not unusual if your primary symptoms don’t disappear after the first one or two visits. Instead, look for these signs that your body is responding: less stress, better sleep, improved digestion, more energy, and decreased pain. Each treatment builds on the last, and consistency makes the biggest difference.
Phases and Frequency of Care
Visit frequency depends on your stage of care:
- Acute Care: For recent or more intense conditions, you may need acupuncture two or more times a week for the first month
- Transitional Care: As symptoms improve, visits are spaced further apart without losing momentum
- Maintenance Care: Once your “sweet spot” is found, ongoing sessions (often monthly or every six to eight weeks) help maintain balance and prevent relapse
Conditions That Respond Well to Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be effective for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Pain Management (back, neck, joints)
- Headaches and Migraines
- Stress and Anxiety
- Digestive Issues
- Sleep Problems
- Allergies & Sinus Congestion
- Women’s Health Issues
- Pregnancy Discomfort & Labor Induction
- Sports Injuries & Recovery
- Fatigue & Low Energy
We also offer cupping therapy, which uses gentle suction to increase circulation, loosen muscles, and encourage the free flow of Qi for improved healing.
Two Paths to Whole Body Balance
While both acupuncture and chiropractic care are powerful on their own, they work exceptionally well together. Chiropractic adjustments address structural alignment and nervous system function, while acupuncture works on energy flow, circulation, and the body’s internal balance. This combined approach addresses multiple aspects of health, often leading to faster and more complete results.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re curious about whether acupuncture could help with your specific health concerns, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alex at Advantage Chiropractic. He’ll answer your questions, address any concerns, and help you decide if this natural approach could benefit you.
Schedule Your Acupuncture Appointment
