Prairie Star Acupuncture & Healing Arts

🌿 What Can Acupuncture Treat?

Acupuncture can help with a wide range of physical, emotional, and mental health concerns. Here are some of the most common areas we treat at Prairie Star:

• Pain & Neurological Issues:
  Chronic pain (back, neck, shoulders, knees); Migraines, tension headaches, sciatica, arthritis; Post-stroke or postoperative recovery, fibromyalgia
• Musculoskeletal Concerns:
  Frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis; TMJ issues, sprains, sports injuries
• Digestive Health:
  IBS, IBD, nausea, constipation, diarrhea
• Respiratory & Immune Support:
  Allergies, asthma, sinus issues, colds
• Reproductive & Fertility: 
  Fertility support, IVF/IUI support; Pregnancy discomfort, morning sickness, labor support
• Hormonal & Endocrine Health:
  Menstrual cramps, PMS, menopause symptoms; Thyroid imbalances, PCOS, diabetes support
• Emotional & Mental Health: 
  Anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, chronic fatigue
• Other Uses: 
  Smoking cessation, weight support, skin conditions; Side effects from chemotherapy or radiation; Long COVID symptom relief

Each treatment is tailored to your unique body and needs.

🐉 Are acupuncture needles safe?

Yes! Acupuncture needles are thin, sterile, single-use, and FDA-approved. They are made of stainless steel and are safely applied by a licensed acupuncturist. After each session, needles are immediately disposed of. If you are pregnant, taking blood thinners, or have a specific medical condition, just let me know.

Some people may experience mild side effects, such as:

• Light bruising or temporary soreness at the needle site
• Mild fatigue after a session
• Occasional light-headedness, especially if you’re dehydrated or haven’t eaten

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😴 What does a session look like?

Prairie Star provides community acupuncture, where you receive an individualized treatment in a calm room with comfortable recliners.

Your first visit includes a brief conversation about your needs, your health history, and planning your treatment schedule. During treatment, needles are typically placed on your arms, hands, legs, feet, ears, and head. Most people find treatments very relaxing; many fall asleep. Sessions usually last 30–60 minutes, depending on your needs, and we check in regularly to make adjustments.

🪷 What else do I need to know before my first visit?

• Wear clothing that allows for easy access to your arms and legs (below the knees and elbows).
• The treatment room is kept at a comfortable temperature, but you’re welcome to bring a small, lightweight blanket.
• Please avoid wearing perfume or cologne to accommodate our patients with allergies.
• Eat a small meal 1-2 hours before treatment and do not plan a large/active day following treatment if possible, this gives your body time to integrate. 
• Avoid caffeine 1-2 hours before or after your treatment to decrease sensitivity. 
• Make sure you are adequately hydrated before treatment, patients always report lower needle sensitivity with increased water intake!

☯️ How long will I need treatments?

Many people feel benefits quickly, but full results usually come gradually. Most patients need a series of treatments, and I’ll help you develop a plan tailored to your body and goals. This can typically look like a series of 8-12 treatments. Initially treatments will be closer together (perhaps 2x/week) until symptoms are controlled. Then spread to once a week, once every other week, monthly, and then as an “as-needed” basis. During this process, we are in conversation and listening to your body is the most powerful guideline when knowing the “right” time for your next treatment. It can look different for everyone. 

Think of your healing like filling a wooden barrel. Each acupuncture session adds a little water, slowly and consistently, so the barrel fills without spilling. Along the way, we also identify and patch any “leaks” in the wood—imbalances or gaps in your health—so the barrel can hold as much as possible and support long-lasting wellness.