Finding an acupuncturist

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles to various depths at strategic points on the body. Among the best studied applications of acupuncture are for treating pain and nausea and vomiting related to receiving chemotherapy for cancer.

If you’re considering acupuncture, it's important to find a qualified practitioner. Take the same steps you would to choose a doctor:

• Ask people you trust for recommendations.
• Check the practitioner’s training and credentials. Most states require that nonphysician acupuncturists pass an exam conducted by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
• Talk to the practitioner. Ask what’s involved in the treatment, how likely it is to help your condition and how much it will cost.
• Find out whether your insurance covers the treatment.

In addition, tell your primary doctor you’re considering acupuncture. Your doctor may be able to tell you about the success rate of using acupuncture for your condition or recommend a practitioner. In addition, a growing number of medical doctors use acupuncture as part of their clinical practice.

Have you tried acupuncture? Share your experience at our group Aging Well.

More integrative health information from Mayo Clinic can be found in The Integrative Guide to Good Health.