Acupuncture works by stimulating acupoints on the body with micro-thin pins (needles). Stimulating acupoints sparks physiological reactions in the brain and nervous system, including the release of chemicals such as endorphins, which are some of the body's natural pain killers. By stimulating the nervous system and with the release of internal chemicals, the body and its various systems are able to reset and self-regulate. Viewed holistically, acupuncture works by relieving stress and gently encouraging the body to move back to its natural state of balance. In terms of Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture restores proper energy flow, thereby enabling the body to heal itself. 

No, not at all. We are able to treat all kinds of conditions (including hip/back/shoulder pain) by using distal acupuncture. Distal acupuncture uses points on the extremities of the body (below the elbows, below the knees, and on the head). Some styles of acupuncture favor lots of points on the torso but this is typically a matter of personal preference and style, and it isn’t necessary to get good results. We successfully treat pain in these areas multiple times a day, every day. The most important aspect of effective acupuncture is being able to get treatment often enough to get great results. 

All of our acupuncturists have a Master’s-level degree in acupuncture (a three- to four-year program), have passed the national certification exam, are certified in Clean Needle Technique, and are licensed to practice acupuncture by the State of Utah.

For most people acupuncture is incredibly relaxing. There may occasionally be a small pinch with an insertion, but once the pins are in most people become very relaxed and often even fall asleep.

No. Our pins (needles) are sterile, single-use, and stainless steel. They are disposed of after use in Sharps containers.

30 minutes with the pins in is all it takes, however, we allow people to rest with the pins in for about an hour. New patients are usually at at the clinic for an hour or longer.

You won’t need to take off any clothing because we are experts at treating health concerns using distal acupuncture. This means we only need access to the areas below your elbows and knees. Wearing something that allows you to roll up your pants to the knees and  your sleeves to the elbows is ideal.

At our clinic we treat patients in comfortable recliners (like a La-Z-Boy) in a calm, soothing, and supportive group setting. This is what community acupuncture means to us: We support one another and accompany each other along the path that makes up our individual health journey. 

Historically, acupuncture in America has been practiced a lot like massage therapists practice; meaning you're alone in a room for the duration of the treatment. This can be very uncomfortable for people, especially if they've never had acupuncture before. In addition, acupuncture treatments based on this business model typically cost $65 - $125 per treatment. That's a lot of money for many of us. By contrast, our clinic charges $20 - $50 per treatment on a sliding scale. This means you decide what you can afford to pay, no questions asked. 

Wasatch is one of over 200 community acupuncture clinics that belongs to a national cooperative, the People’s Organization for Community Acupuncture (POCA). You will find information about POCA’s efforts to start and sustain community acupuncture clinics around the country, including through mentorship, training, and its micro-loan program. POCA has also started its own affordable acupuncture school: POCA Tech. POCA Tech is training the next generation of community acupuncturists (a scarce resource for community clinics around the country). POCA Tech can definitely use the support of the public: to read more, and to donate, click here.