Question 1

How does acupuncture work?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture stimulates specific points on the body that signal the nervous system to release neurochemicals, modulate inflammation, and shift you out of stress mode into rest-and-digest mode where healing happens.

Question 2

What does acupuncture feel like?

Accepted Answer

Most points feel like a quick pinch or a dull pressure for a few seconds. Many patients fall into a deep 'acu-nap' during the session.

Question 3

How long will my treatment last?

Accepted Answer

Initial visits are about 90 minutes. Follow-ups are 60 minutes including needle retention time.

Question 4

What should I expect after treatment?

Accepted Answer

A pleasant, relaxed feeling is most common. Some patients feel a wave of energy; others feel sleepy. Both are normal.

Question 5

How should I prepare for acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Eat a light meal beforehand, wear loose clothing, and hydrate. Avoid heavy caffeine right before your visit.

Question 6

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes — when delivered by a trained practitioner. Acupuncture is widely used for morning sickness, back pain, breech presentation, and labor preparation.

Question 7

Can my child or teenager get acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We use age-appropriate techniques and very small needles. Many pediatric treatments don't require needle retention at all.

Question 8

How does Gonstead Chiropractic care help?

Accepted Answer

Specific adjustments restore proper joint motion and remove interference along the nervous system, allowing the body to function and heal as designed.

Question 9

Is Gonstead Chiropractic safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Gonstead is one of the most specific and analytical techniques in Gonstead Chiropractic — we adjust based on exam findings, not guesswork.

Question 10

I didn't hear a sound. Does that mean the adjustment didn't work?

Accepted Answer

No. The audible release is just gas escaping the joint capsule. The therapeutic value is in restoring motion, which happens whether or not you hear a 'pop.'

Question 11

Is Gonstead Chiropractic safe during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and it's one of the best things you can do to support a comfortable pregnancy and an easier birth.

Question 12

Is Gonstead Chiropractic safe for children?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Adjustments for children use very light pressure — about what you'd use to test the ripeness of a tomato.

Question 13

Can I see a Gonstead Chiropractor if I've had back surgery?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. We tailor care around prior surgical sites and focus on the regions above and below.

Question 14

How long will it take to work?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the severity, duration, and complexity of your issue. Most patients notice meaningful change within the first few visits, with longer-term care addressing the underlying pattern.

Question 15

Can a nurse practitioner prescribe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Nurse practitioners in Maine have full prescriptive authority within their scope of practice.

Question 16

Can a nurse practitioner act as a primary care provider?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many Mainers have a nurse practitioner as their PCP, and NPs can coordinate referrals and specialty care.

Question 17

What kind of testing can a nurse practitioner order?

Accepted Answer

A broad range of labs, imaging, and functional testing — including comprehensive blood panels, hormone testing, thyroid panels, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture

Gonstead Chiropractic

Nurse Practitioner