Acupuncture & Stages of Healing

Acupuncture has long been used to treat a wide range of conditions, from pain and stiffness due to osteoarthritis to asthma, allergies, and headaches. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes acupuncture as an effective treatment for dozens of conditions, including:

• Pain

• Respiratory issues

• Eye and mouth disorders

• Orthopedic and neurological conditions

• Gastrointestinal ailments

But what role does acupuncture play in the healing process after an injury?

Let’s explore how acupuncture supports the body through three distinct yet overlapping stages of healing: acute, intermediate, and chronic.

 

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🔹 Stage 1: Acute / Inflammatory Phase

Timeframe: Immediately after injury – approx. 1 day to 1 week

When an injury occurs, your body’s internal triage system kicks in to stop bleeding and begin the repair process. This acute stage is marked by:

• Swelling

• Heat

• Redness

• Pain

 

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), injury disrupts the smooth flow of Qi and Blood, creating blockages. Falls and trauma can damage blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and bones — triggering inflammation.

Acupuncture at this stage can:

• Reduce swelling

• Clear heat

• Promote Qi and Blood circulation

• Calm the mind

• Relieve pain

• Help prevent scar tissue formation and support joint stability

 

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🔹 Stage 2: Intermediate / Subacute Phase

Timeframe: Approx. 1 week to 3 weeks post-injury

In this phase, swelling and bruising begin to subside. Tendons, ligaments, and joints are now more accessible for treatment. The body focuses on tissue repair and rebuilding.

 

TCM treatment goals in this stage include:

• Stimulating circulation of Qi and Blood

• Repairing tissue

• Relaxing tendons and ligaments

• Mending and strengthening bones

• Softening nodules that may form

Acupuncture during this phase enhances recovery and supports long-term healing.

 

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🔹 Stage 3: Chronic / Long-Term Phase

Timeframe: Begins approx. 1 month after injury; may last for months

In the chronic phase, swelling and inflammation have usually resolved, but lingering pain, stiffness, or tension may remain — especially in tendons and ligaments, which heal slower due to limited blood flow.

TCM practitioners may notice:

• Obstruction of Qi and Blood

• Residual nodules (cellular waste buildup)

• Cold and damp invasion in joints (which complicates healing)

 

Acupuncture goals in the chronic stage:

• Move Qi and Blood

• Warm the cold

• Drain dampness

• Relax stiff muscles, tendons, and ligaments

• Strengthen overall Qi and Blood

• Eliminate lingering pain and stagnation

Practitioners may also use moxibustion, poultices, or herbal remedies to assist healing during this phase.

 

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🌿 Recommended Healing Plan

To accelerate healing and minimize downtime, we recommend:

• 2 sessions per week for 2–3 weeks

• Followed by 1 session per week for an additional 4 weeks

This protocol may:

• Reduce pain and swelling

• Improve sleep

• Get you back to work faster

• Restore your quality of life

 

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✅ No Referral Needed

You do not need a referral to begin acupuncture care. The sooner you schedule, the sooner you’ll start feeling better.

Book your appointment with our licensed acupuncturist today.