Total Health Systems

Acupuncture + Chiropractic: Healing from Every Angle

Exploring drug-free pain relief options? Both acupuncture and chiropractic care have helped millions find relief—but they work through completely different pathways. At Total Health Systems, we've seen remarkable outcomes when patients receive both: structural corrections paired with the body's own healing activation. If chronic pain hasn't responded fully to one approach, this combination may be the missing piece.

Optimal Approach

Why Combining These Treatments Works

Acupuncture and chiropractic care work through different mechanisms, which is precisely why combining them is so powerful. Chiropractic addresses the structural causes of pain—misalignment, joint dysfunction, nerve compression. Acupuncture works on the body's healing systems—reducing inflammation, releasing endorphins, restoring energy flow. Together, they tackle pain from both the structural AND the systemic level, often achieving results that neither can accomplish alone.

Multi-system healing: Addresses both structural and energetic imbalances

Enhanced pain relief: Endorphin release from acupuncture amplifies adjustment benefits

Reduced inflammation: Creates an optimal environment for structural healing

Faster recovery: Two complementary healing mechanisms working simultaneously

Drug-free comprehensive care: Maximum relief without medication

Conditions That Respond Best to Combined Treatment

Chronic pain that hasn't fully responded to single treatmentsConditions with both structural and inflammatory componentsComplex cases requiring a multi-faceted approachHolistic wellness and preventive care programsStress-related conditions affecting both body and mind

Understanding Each Treatment

While we recommend combining these treatments for optimal results, here's what each brings to your treatment plan:

Acupuncture

Role in combined treatment: Reduces inflammation, releases natural pain-relievers, and promotes systemic healing

Focus: Energy flow restoration, natural pain relief, and holistic healing

Best For:

Chronic pain conditionsHeadaches and migrainesStress and anxietyDigestive issues

Session Length

Varies by treatment plan*

Typical Frequency

Weekly initially, then as needed*

Learn more about Acupuncture

Chiropractic Care

Role in combined treatment: Corrects structural issues that may be contributing to systemic imbalances

Focus: Spinal alignment, joint function, and structural correction

Best For:

Acute back and neck painJoint dysfunctionSciaticaSports injuries

Session Length

10 minutes (adjustments), longer for evaluations*

Typical Frequency

1-3 times per week initially*

Learn more about Chiropractic Care

*Please note: Session lengths, frequency, and treatment plans vary based on each individual's unique needs and condition. At Total Health Systems, we believe in a holistic, personalized approach—your care plan may require more or less treatment depending on your specific situation. During your consultation, our team will create a customized plan tailored just for you.

When Each Treatment May Be Particularly Helpful

These are situations where one treatment might take the lead—but remember, combining both often delivers the best results.

Acupuncture may take the lead when...

  • You have widespread or diffuse pain
  • Your condition has an inflammatory component
  • You experience chronic pain that hasn't responded to other treatments
  • You want to address pain alongside stress or sleep issues
  • You prefer a gentler, non-manipulative approach

Chiropractic Care may take the lead when...

  • You have localized joint or spinal pain
  • You feel restricted movement in your spine or joints
  • Your pain is related to a recent injury or accident
  • You experience sharp pain with certain movements
  • Diagnostic imaging shows structural issues

Not sure which applies to you? Our team can evaluate your situation and recommend the right combination.

Common Questions: Acupuncture + Chiropractic Care

There's significant overlap—both effectively treat back pain, neck pain, headaches, and sciatica. But they work differently: acupuncture excels at reducing inflammation and systemic issues, while chiropractic addresses structural problems.

That's why combining them often gives the best results.
Both treatments are well-tolerated. Acupuncture needles are hair-thin, and most patients feel only a brief pinch or nothing at all.

Chiropractic adjustments may produce a "popping" sound but aren't painful. Many patients find both treatments relaxing.
For chronic pain, combining both treatments often provides the best results. Acupuncture reduces inflammation and promotes natural pain relief, while chiropractic addresses structural issues that may be perpetuating the pain.

Our team can create a personalized plan using both approaches.
Many insurance plans now cover acupuncture, especially for pain management. Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis.

Our team at Total Health Systems can verify your benefits for both acupuncture and chiropractic care.

Ready to Start Your Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care Treatment?

Don't let pain hold you back. Our expert acupuncture and chiropractic care team is ready to help you feel better today.