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What Conditions Are Treated with Acupuncture?

Q: How many acupuncture sessions are needed to see results?

Most people notice improvements after a few sessions, although the number varies depending on the condition and its severity. A physiotherapist or acupuncture practitioner will create a personalised plan to achieve lasting relief and optimal wellbeing.

29 Sept 2025

Written by Wesley Adora (Physiotherapist, APAM)

Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years and is now widely recognised as an effective therapy for managing pain, improving function, and enhancing overall wellbeing. Today, many people choose acupuncture as a natural and complementary treatment option to support recovery from injuries, reduce chronic discomfort, and manage a range of health concerns.

At its core, acupuncture involves the gentle insertion of fine, sterile needles at specific points on the body. These points stimulate the nervous system, encourage the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, improve blood flow, and help restore balance in the body. But what exactly can acupuncture help with? Let’s explore the common conditions treated with acupuncture and how it may benefit you.

Conditions treated By Acupuncture

Musculoskeletal Pain and Injuries

One of the most common reasons people seek acupuncture is to relieve pain in the muscles, joints, and soft tissues. Conditions such as lower back pain, neck pain, shoulder stiffness, osteoarthritis, and sports injuries often respond well to treatment. Acupuncture can ease muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and improve movement—making it a valuable part of injury rehabilitation and long-term pain management.

60–70% of patients report significant improvement in chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain after acupuncture.
Source: World Health Organization (WHO), 2023

Headaches and Migraines

For those living with frequent headaches or migraines, acupuncture can provide meaningful relief. By targeting points that relax the muscles of the head, neck, and shoulders while also calming the nervous system, acupuncture can reduce both the intensity and frequency of headache episodes. Many people find that regular sessions help them rely less on medication.

Women’s Health and Menstrual Pain

Acupuncture is often used to support women’s health, particularly for conditions such as menstrual cramps, irregular cycles, and pregnancy-related discomforts. It may help ease cramping, balance hormones, and promote relaxation, offering a natural approach for women looking to manage pain or support reproductive health.

65% of women report reduced menstrual pain and cramps after acupuncture treatments.
Source: American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2021

Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep Issues

The calming effects of acupuncture extend beyond physical pain. Many individuals experience improvements in stress levels, anxiety, and sleep quality. By influencing the body’s stress response and promoting relaxation, acupuncture can help restore balance to both the mind and body, making it a useful therapy for overall wellbeing.

Acupuncture can reduce anxiety levels by up to 40% and improve sleep quality in adults.
Source: Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2022

Nerve and Chronic Pain Conditions

Acupuncture is also beneficial in managing chronic nerve-related conditions such as sciatica, neuropathy, or post-surgical pain. By stimulating the nervous system, acupuncture can interrupt pain signals, promote healing, and provide relief where other approaches may fall short.

Digestive and General Wellness Support

Some people use acupuncture to support digestion, boost energy, and enhance general wellness. While its primary use in a physiotherapy setting is for pain and injury management, the wider benefits often include better sleep, improved energy levels, and enhanced quality of life.

What to Expect During Treatment

During your first session, your practitioner will complete a thorough assessment to understand your health history and current concerns. Treatment typically involves the use of single-use, sterile needles inserted into specific points, which may create a mild tingling or warming sensation. Sessions usually last between 30 and 60 minutes, and many people begin to notice improvements after just a few appointments.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is very safe. Side effects are rare and usually mild, such as slight soreness or temporary redness at the needle site. At our clinic, all treatments are carried out under strict hygiene standards with your safety and comfort in mind.

Final Thoughts

Acupuncture is a safe, natural, and evidence-based therapy that can effectively manage a wide range of conditions—from chronic musculoskeletal pain and nerve-related issues to headaches, menstrual discomfort, stress, and sleep disturbances. With targeted treatment plans, you can experience lasting relief, improved mobility, and overall wellbeing.

For personalised acupuncture treatments in Norwest, Sydney, trust the experts at Norwest Central Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic. Our qualified physiotherapists integrate acupuncture into tailored programs to address the root cause of your pain, not just the symptoms.

Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a pain-free, balanced life with professional acupuncture care in Sydney.

FAQs

What conditions can be treated with acupuncture?

Acupuncture can help manage a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal pain (back, neck, shoulders), headaches and migraines, menstrual pain, stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, nerve pain (sciatica, neuropathy), and support general wellbeing.

Is acupuncture safe for everyone?

Yes, acupuncture is generally very safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. Side effects are rare and usually mild, such as temporary soreness or redness at the needle site. Practitioners follow strict hygiene standards to ensure safety.

How does acupuncture help with chronic pain?

Acupuncture stimulates specific points in the body, encouraging the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals and improving blood flow. This helps reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and interrupt nerve pain signals, making it effective for conditions like chronic back pain, sciatica, and post-surgical discomfort.