By Dr. Lisa Forsythe
Despite being practiced for thousands of years, acupuncture remains one of the most misunderstood healing modalities in modern medicine. As a licensed acupuncturist with a background in both Eastern medicine and neuro-acupuncture, I’ve seen how powerful this therapy can be—not just for pain relief, but for whole-body wellness. I’ve also heard just about every myth and misconception along the way.
Let’s set the record straight.
Misconception #1: “Acupuncture is painful.”
This is the most common fear I hear, and it’s almost always followed by surprise once someone finally tries it. Acupuncture needles are extremely thin—about the width of a human hair—and nothing like the hypodermic needles used for injections. Most people feel little to no discomfort when the needles are inserted. In fact, many feel deeply relaxed or even fall asleep during treatment.
Truth: Acupuncture is typically a calming, restorative experience. Some patients feel a light tingling or warmth, which is simply the body responding to the stimulation.
Misconception #2: “It’s only for pain relief.”
While acupuncture is well known for its ability to reduce pain—including back pain, arthritis, and migraines—its applications go far beyond that. I regularly treat patients for anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, immune support, and even neurological conditions like stroke recovery and PTSD.
Truth: Acupuncture works by regulating the nervous system, improving circulation, and restoring balance to the body’s internal systems. That’s why it benefits both physical and emotional health.
Misconception #3: “There’s no science behind it.”
This one couldn’t be further from the truth. Over the past several decades, research on acupuncture has exploded. Studies have shown that acupuncture influences the brain, nervous system, and endocrine function. It can reduce inflammation, release endorphins (your body’s natural painkillers) and modulate the immune response.
Major institutions like Johns Hopkins, Cleveland Clinic, and Mayo Clinic now offer acupuncture as part of integrative treatment programs for chronic pain, cancer support, fertility and more.
Truth: Acupuncture is backed by evidence-based research and is increasingly integrated into mainstream healthcare systems.
Misconception #4: “It’s not safe for kids, older adults, or people with medical conditions.”
Acupuncture is one of the safest medical therapies when performed by a licensed practitioner. At the Tortoise Clinic, I treat patients of all ages—from kids with anxiety or ADHD to seniors with arthritis or stroke recovery needs. We tailor every treatment to the individual’s age, condition, and comfort level.
Truth: Acupuncture is gentle and can be adapted for almost anyone, including those who are medically fragile or on multiple medications.
Misconception #5: “If I don’t feel better after one session, it didn’t work.”
This is where the tortoise—yes, like our clinic’s namesake—has it right: healing takes time. Acupuncture is a cumulative therapy, meaning each session builds on the last. Some people feel immediate relief, but for most, noticeable improvements happen gradually over several treatments.
Truth: Consistency is key. Like exercise or nutrition, the effects of acupuncture are most powerful when practiced regularly.
So, Why Choose Acupuncture?
Acupuncture invites your body to do what it’s designed to do: heal. Whether you’re dealing with chronic illness, stress, fatigue, hormonal imbalance, or recovery from injury or trauma, acupuncture offers a safe, natural, and effective way to reset your system and restore balance.
It’s not about masking symptoms—it’s about treating the root cause, gently and holistically.
Experience the Difference at The Tortoise Clinic
As the only Neuro-Acupuncture specialist within 300 miles of Santa Rosa Beach, I offer advanced treatments that blend classical Chinese medicine with cutting-edge neuroscience to support complex neurological conditions. And as a team, we’re committed to delivering integrative, personalized care that truly listens to your story and your goals.
Curious about how acupuncture could support your health? Schedule your consultation today at TortoiseClinic.com or give us a call at 850.267.5611 and mention this article to receive $30 off as a new patient.
At the Tortoise Clinic, healing is not a race—it’s a journey. Let’s walk it together.
