Acupuncture for Post-Surgical Recovery : What to Expect
- Sandy Root
- Jul 2
- 3 min read

Recovering from surgery can be a challenging journey, involving pain management, inflammation control, and restoring overall balance in the body. Acupuncture, an ancient healing practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has become an increasingly popular complementary therapy to support post-surgical recovery. But what exactly can you expect when using acupuncture after surgery? Let’s explore how acupuncture can help and what the treatment process looks like.
How Acupuncture Supports Post-Surgical Recovery
Acupuncture involves the gentle insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and restore balance. Here’s how it can benefit your recovery:
Pain Relief: Acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, helping reduce post-surgical pain without relying solely on medications.
Reduced Inflammation: By promoting circulation and balancing the immune response, acupuncture can help decrease swelling and inflammation around the surgical site.
Improved Healing: Enhanced blood flow encourages oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues, supporting faster wound healing.
Stress Reduction: Surgery can be stressful physically and emotionally; acupuncture’s calming effects support mental well-being and reduce anxiety.
Improved Mobility: Acupuncture can relieve muscle stiffness and promote nerve function, helping restore range of motion and reduce post-operative stiffness.
What to Expect During Your Acupuncture Sessions
1. Initial Consultation
Your first visit at our Miami Beach acupuncture or Doral acupuncture office will include a thorough discussion of your surgery, current symptoms, and medical history. This helps the acupuncturist tailor the treatment plan specifically for your needs.
2. Treatment Plan
Post-surgical acupuncture often involves multiple sessions over several weeks. Frequency depends on your surgery type, healing progress, and individual response.
3. The Acupuncture Procedure
Comfortable Setting: You’ll lie down or sit comfortably while the acupuncturist inserts ultra-thin needles at specific points.
Minimal Discomfort: Most people feel a slight pinch or tingling sensation. The needles typically remain in place for 20-30 minutes.
Additional Techniques: Cupping or electro-acupuncture may be included to enhance healing.
4. Aftercare and Recovery
Rest: It’s normal to feel relaxed or even sleepy after treatment.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support detoxification and healing.
Symptom Monitoring: Some mild soreness or slight bruising around needle sites can occur but usually resolves quickly.
Is Acupuncture Safe After Surgery?
Acupuncture is generally safe when performed by a licensed professional trained in post-surgical care. However, there are some important considerations:
Avoid acupuncture directly on or near the surgical wound until cleared by your surgeon.
Inform your acupuncturist about all medications and supplements you’re taking.
Discuss any bleeding disorders or immune system concerns beforehand.
Always coordinate your acupuncture treatment with your medical team to ensure the best and safest recovery.
Who Can Benefit from Post-Surgical Acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been shown to support recovery from many types of surgeries, including:
Orthopedic surgeries (joint replacements, ligament repairs)
Abdominal surgeries (appendectomy, hysterectomy)
Cosmetic surgeries (facelifts, liposuction)
Cardiothoracic surgeries (heart or lung procedures)
If you’re looking for a natural, drug-free way to complement your healing process and reduce discomfort, acupuncture might be a helpful addition.
Why Choose Root Acupuncture for Acupuncture in Doral, Miami & Miami Beach?
At Root Acupuncture, we specialize in gentle, effective acupuncture treatments tailored for post-surgical recovery. Our clinic serves the Doral, Miami, and Miami Beach communities with compassionate care designed to help you heal faster and feel better naturally.
Contact Root Acupuncture today to schedule and see how acupuncture can help you heal better and faster.
Comments