What Are Healing Reactions? Understanding Your Body’s Response to Acupuncture
At Remedy Wellness Centre in Victoria, BC, we understand that starting acupuncture can raise questions—especially when you feel worse before you feel better. This is sometimes due to what’s known as a healing reaction, a natural part of the body’s rebalancing process. While it may be surprising or even disconcerting, it’s often a positive sign of deep healing.
In this article, we’ll explain what healing reactions are, how quickly you can expect to notice changes in your symptoms, and what to do if your results vary after treatment.
What Is a Healing Reaction in Acupuncture?
A healing reaction (also known as a “healing crisis”) can occur when the body begins to release long-held stagnation or imbalances. This often happens after acupuncture activates energetic shifts that promote detoxification and circulation.
Common Signs of a Healing Reaction:
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Temporary increase in pain or tension
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Fatigue or sleepiness
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Emotional release (such as tearfulness or irritability)
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Digestive changes (bloating, gas, or more frequent bowel movements)
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Flu-like symptoms or mild headaches
While these effects are usually mild and short-lived, they can indicate that your body is responding to treatment by starting to rebalance and heal at a deeper level.
💡 Healing reactions are more likely to occur in people with long-standing, chronic conditions or when the body has stored a significant amount of tension or emotional energy.
How Quickly Should I Notice Symptom Relief?
Many patients at our Victoria acupuncture clinic ask, “When will I start to feel better?”
The answer depends on your condition and overall health. Acupuncture is not always an instant fix, especially for chronic pain, hormonal imbalances, or emotional health concerns. While some people feel relief after one or two treatments, others may need several sessions to see a measurable change—especially if multiple concerns are being addressed.
Factors That Influence Progress:
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How long you’ve had the condition
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The severity of your symptoms
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Your overall health and lifestyle habits
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How frequently you attend treatments
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Whether you’re combining acupuncture with other therapies
Your acupuncturist at Remedy Wellness Centre will provide a personalized treatment plan that outlines what to expect, including frequency of visits and home care suggestions to support healing between sessions.
How Long Should the Results of Acupuncture Last?
If your relief fades quickly after treatment, it doesn’t necessarily mean acupuncture isn’t working—it may mean your body needs more time and support to fully heal. This is especially true in cases of long-term pain, hormonal disorders, and emotional stress.
To extend the benefits of your treatment, your acupuncturist may recommend:
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Continued sessions to build cumulative effects
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Lifestyle and diet changes to address the root causes
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Herbal medicine or supplements (where appropriate)
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Hydration, rest, and stress reduction strategies
The more consistent you are with care, the longer-lasting your results will be.
What If I Experience a Significant Change After Treatment?
If you experience a strong shift—either positive or uncomfortable—after acupuncture, always talk to your acupuncturist. Reactions are often completely normal and expected, but your practitioner can help you understand what’s happening and guide your next steps.
Examples of significant changes:
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Pain moves from one area to another
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Emotional breakthroughs or vivid dreams
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A sudden burst of energy or fatigue
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Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
These may signal that your body is processing changes on a physical, emotional, or energetic level.
Your acupuncturist will evaluate your response and adjust your treatment plan accordingly to ensure optimal healing and comfort. They may also recommend additional therapies available at Remedy Wellness Centre to support your body’s transition.
Supporting Research on Healing Reactions and Treatment Response
Although research on healing reactions is still emerging, many studies support the delayed and cumulative benefits of acupuncture:
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A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine (2012) showed that acupuncture outperforms both sham treatments and standard care in long-term pain relief for chronic back, neck, and osteoarthritis pain.
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The Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2018) discussed how temporary symptom aggravation is often followed by sustained improvement, especially in patients with long-standing conditions.
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Pain BC also offers valuable insight into acupuncture for chronic pain. Watch their expert webinar here.
Book Your Acupuncture Appointment in Victoria, BC
If you’re curious about acupuncture or experiencing changes after treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Remedy Wellness Centre, our experienced acupuncturists are here to guide you every step of the way—from your first appointment through every stage of your healing process.
📍 Located in Victoria, BC
Related Reading:
Acupuncture for Pain Relief and Healing
What to Expect in Your First Acupuncture Session