Most people get up from the treatment couch and carry on with their day without any trouble. Still, a little thought about the hours after your session can make the whole experience more comfortable, and none of it is complicated.
Before you arrive, eat something
Good aftercare starts before treatment. Have something to eat beforehand so you don't arrive hungry, and if you feel hungry, thirsty or too warm during the session, just tell me.
Give yourself a little rest
Many people find acupuncture relaxing, and some feel noticeably sleepy afterwards. Some people also feel dizzy or tired after treatment, and this usually passes quickly.
If you can, plan a gentle rest of the day rather than rushing straight on to something demanding.
Go easy on alcohol
Alcohol on top of feeling sleepy isn't a good mix, so it's sensible to keep that evening quiet.
Save the heavy workout for another day
A gentle walk is fine for most people. A hard gym session or long run straight after treatment isn't ideal, though, because your body has just had treatment. If you have a regular training routine, try booking on a rest day.
Driving
If you feel tired or drowsy, don't drive or operate machinery. And if you feel unwell after your first treatment, wait until you feel well again before getting behind the wheel. If you're unsure how you'll feel, it can help to have someone else drive you to your first session.
What about drinking water?
You'll often read that you should drink lots of water after acupuncture. I looked, and I didn't find NHS or BAcC guidance that specifically recommends it. Having a drink and a snack after your session is perfectly reasonable if it helps you feel settled, but think of it as everyday common sense rather than a special rule.
Mild bruising
Small bruises where a needle went in are one of the more common side effects, and they can look more noticeable when points on the face have been used.
- A small bruise usually fades by itself over a few days.
- Blood-thinning medication raises the risk of bleeding, so make sure I know about any medicines you take.
- If a bruise is large, very painful, spreading or not improving, contact me or your GP.
Feeling tired, or a brief flare in symptoms
Tiredness and a temporary increase in symptoms are both possible after-effects. They usually settle, but do mention them at your next appointment so I can take them into account.
When to get in touch
Serious problems after acupuncture from a trained practitioner are rare. Even so, please contact me, and if needed your GP or NHS 111, if you:
- feel unwell in a way that doesn't settle
- notice redness, heat, swelling or discharge at a needle site
- have any symptom that worries you
Never delay seeking medical advice because you've recently had acupuncture.
A simple aftercare checklist
- Eat something beforehand.
- Keep the rest of the day gentle if you can.
- Skip alcohol and hard exercise that day.
- Don't drive if you feel drowsy or unwell.
- Keep an eye on any bruise, and get in touch if you're concerned.
If you'd like something gentle to do at home between sessions, try one of my guided acupressure routines.