Acupuncture
Individualized acupuncture care at Rooted
Acupuncture is a therapeutic treatment that uses very fine, sterile, single-use needles placed at specific points on the body.
At Rooted, acupuncture is provided by our naturopathic doctors and may be used on its own or as part of a broader naturopathic treatment plan. Your care is tailored to your health history, symptoms, current treatments, and goals.
What can acupuncture be used for?
Pain & physical symptoms
Acupuncture may be used as part of care for:
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Chronic pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Muscle tension
Research suggests acupuncture may help with some types of pain and headaches, although the degree of benefit varies depending on the condition and the individual.
Stress, sleep & relaxation
Some patients choose acupuncture to support:
- Stress and tension
- Relaxation
- Sleep concerns
Menstrual & reproductive health
Acupuncture may also be used as supportive care for:
- Menstrual pain and cramping
- Other menstrual symptoms
- Supportive care during fertility treatment
- Selected pregnancy-related symptoms
- Labour support
For more information about the potential role of acupuncture during fertility care, see our dedicated page.
Digestive & other symptoms
Acupuncture may also be considered as supportive care for some:
- Digestive symptoms
- Nausea
- Seasonal allergy, nasal congestion or nasal symptoms
What to expect during an acupuncture treatment
Your appointment begins with a conversation about your health concerns, symptoms, and goals. Your naturopathic doctor will select treatment points based on your assessment and reason for treatment.
Very fine, sterile, single-use needles are gently inserted into specific points on the body. Most people experience little discomfort. You may notice a brief prick when a needle is inserted, followed by sensations such as warmth, pressure, tingling, heaviness, or relaxation.
Once the needles are in place, you will typically rest quietly for approximately 20–30 minutes.
Some people feel relaxed or tired after treatment, while others notice no immediate change. Your response can vary depending on the reason for treatment and your individual circumstances.
Acupuncture with a Naturopathic Doctor
At Rooted, acupuncture is offered as part of naturopathic medical care. This allows your naturopathic doctor to consider acupuncture alongside your broader health picture, including medications, supplements, nutrition, lifestyle, and other treatments.
When appropriate, acupuncture can be integrated with both naturopathic and conventional medical care.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a properly trained practitioner using sterile, single-use needles.
Minor effects such as temporary soreness, bruising, a small amount of bleeding, or light-headedness can occur.
Your practitioner will discuss any factors that may affect your treatment before acupuncture begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, and most people experience little discomfort when they are inserted. You may feel a brief prick or a mild sensation such as pressure, tingling, warmth, or heaviness once a needle is in place.
Your practitioner will explain what you can expect and can make adjustments if anything feels uncomfortable.
The frequency of treatment depends on why you are seeking acupuncture, your symptoms, and how you respond. Some people benefit from a short series of treatments, while others choose acupuncture periodically as part of ongoing care.
Yes. Acupuncture can be used as part of naturopathic care and, when appropriate, alongside conventional medical treatment. Your practitioner will review your current medications and treatments when planning your care.
At Rooted, acupuncture provided by a naturopathic doctor is billed as naturopathic medicine. Coverage varies between extended health insurance plans, so we recommend checking your individual plan to confirm whether naturopathic services are covered.
Not sure if acupuncture is right for you?
You don’t need to know whether acupuncture is the right treatment before you reach out.
Meet with one of our naturopathic doctors during a free 15-minute Meet the Doctor session to discuss your concerns and learn whether acupuncture may be a good fit for your care.