Common Reactions After Acupuncture Treatment

Victoria Han DACM, LAc. 

Common Reactions After Acupuncture Treatment

Acupuncture gently stimulates your body’s natural healing mechanisms, so it’s normal to notice some changes in the hours or days after your session.

1.  Deep Relaxation or Sleepiness

◦    You may feel very calm, even a little tired:  this is a sign your body is shifting into parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) mode. 
✨Tip: Allow yourself to rest or go to bed early if you feel sleepy.

2.  Mild Muscle Soreness or Heaviness

◦    Some people feel heaviness, tingling, or mild soreness around the needle sites or along the treated meridians. This is usually temporary (24 - 48 hours) and a sign of circulation and Qi movement.

3.  Emotional Release

◦    You might feel lighter, more emotional, or even tearful. This is your body letting go of stored tension.

4.  Temporary Symptom Flare-Up

◦    Occasionally, symptoms can feel slightly worse before they get better; similar to a detox reaction. This is called a healing crisis and typically resolves within a day or two.

5.  Improved Sleep, Digestion, or Mood

◦    Many notice better sleep, more regular bowel movements, or a calmer state of mind after treatment.

6.  Increased Urination or Thirst

◦    Your body is processing waste and balancing fluids; staying hydrated helps.

🧘 How to Support Your Body After Treatment

•      Drink warm water or tea to help with circulation.

•      Avoid alcohol or heavy exercise for a few hours.

•      Pay attention to changes in your symptoms and share them at your next session.

•      Rest early if you feel tired, your body is doing deep healing work.