Understanding your bundle
When you choose an acupuncture and chiropractic bundle, you’re investing in a comprehensive approach to holistic pain management and overall wellness. This integrative package combines acupuncture sessions with spinal adjustments, aiming to address musculoskeletal discomfort, reduce stress, and improve your body’s natural healing processes. From day one, the bundled format ensures coordinated care between practitioners, so you receive consistent treatment plans tailored to your needs.
Defining the package
Most bundles include multiple sessions of both acupuncture and chiropractic care, often sold in tiered packages. For example, SCU Health offers wellness bundles starting at six visits and extending up to twenty, with savings of as much as $401 for patients [1]. New chiropractic patients can book an initial consultation, examination, and adjustment for just $29 before selecting a package. Acupuncture follow-up visits are likewise more affordable when purchased as part of a bundle. Note that these packages are generally available only to patients without acute injuries or chief complaints and must be used within 12 months.
| Package visits | Savings potential |
|---|---|
| 6 visits | Up to $120 |
| 10 visits | Up to $240 |
| 20 visits | Up to $401 |
Integrative clinic offerings
In an integrative setting, your acupuncturist and chiropractor collaborate on your care plan. You might alternate modalities each visit or combine both therapies in a single appointment. Many clinics also provide supportive services such as massage therapy, ultrasound, or electro-stimulation. To explore more about these chiropractic + acupuncture services, check our service page on integrative approaches. This collaborative model promotes synergy between needling techniques and spinal adjustments, enhancing your path to recovery.
Preparing for treatment
Before your first combined therapy session, it’s important to understand the steps involved in getting ready. Proper preparation ensures your providers have the information they need to deliver safe, effective care.
Initial consultation
Your journey begins with a detailed intake interview. You’ll complete health questionnaires covering medical history, current medications, lifestyle factors, and the nature of your pain. During this consultation, ask questions about practitioner credentials—such as licensure in acupuncture (LAc) and chiropractic care (DC)—and clarify any concerns about session duration, scheduling, or costs.
Health assessment
Following the intake, you’ll undergo a physical evaluation. Your chiropractor will assess spinal alignment, joint range of motion, posture, and muscle tone. Simultaneously, your acupuncturist may perform a tongue and pulse diagnosis to identify energy imbalances. In some practices, providers use Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores to quantify pain levels, particularly for conditions like cervical spondylotic radiculopathy [2]. By the end of this assessment, you and your care team will agree on a customized treatment plan.
Experiencing acupuncture care
Acupuncture is a cornerstone of your bundle, offering targeted relief from pain and stress by stimulating specific points along energy meridians. Understanding what to expect can help you feel more comfortable during each session.
Needle placement
A licensed acupuncturist will use ultra-fine, sterile needles to stimulate designated points. You may feel a mild pinch or tingling as each needle is inserted. The goal is to remove energy blockages, restore balance, and trigger the release of endorphins and serotonin, your body’s natural pain-relief chemicals [3].
Session flow
Typical acupuncture visits last 20 to 40 minutes. You’ll lie on a comfortable treatment table, fully clothed or in loose-fitting garments. After needle insertion, you rest quietly while the practitioner may gently manipulate needles or apply mild electrical stimulation. Many patients report a deep sense of relaxation or warmth spreading through treated areas.
Undergoing chiropractic treatment
Chiropractic care complements acupuncture by physically realigning your musculoskeletal system. This portion of the bundle focuses on restoring joint function, reducing nerve irritation, and improving posture.
Adjustment techniques
During spinal adjustments, your chiropractor employs high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts or instrument-assisted methods to correct misalignments. You might hear gentle “pops” as joints shift back into place. These precise techniques help alleviate pressure on nerves, ease muscle tension, and support overall mobility [3].
Supporting modalities
To enhance treatment effects, many clinics integrate soft tissue therapies, such as myofascial release, ultrasound, or electro-stimulation—a combination sometimes called acupuncture & spinal adjustment. These modalities promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and prepare muscles for more effective spinal manipulation.
Combining therapies effectively
When acupuncture and chiropractic care are paired in a single bundle, their benefits multiply. Understanding how to sequence treatments and leverage their synergy will maximize your results.
Treatment sequencing
You can choose to alternate sessions—acupuncture one day, chiropractic the next—or combine both in the same appointment. Some providers recommend starting with chiropractic adjustments to restore joint mobility, followed by acupuncture to enhance energy flow and muscle relaxation. Others reverse the order, using needling to prepare soft tissues for easier adjustments.
Synergistic effects
By combining these modalities, you tap into multiple pain-relief mechanisms. Chiropractic realignment supports proper nerve function, while acupuncture stimulates endorphin release and reduces inflammation. A 2017 systematic review published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice found that integrating chiropractic care, acupuncture, and acupressure produced superior outcomes for low back pain compared to single-modality treatments [4].
Anticipating key benefits
Selecting an acupuncture and chiropractic bundle offers a range of measurable improvements. While each person’s experience varies, the following benefits are commonly reported.
Pain relief outcomes
- Significant reduction in chronic discomfort without reliance on addictive medications
- Comparable analgesic effects to drug therapy in conditions like neck pain [2]
- Enhanced relief for cervical radiculopathy, headaches, and lower back pain
Mobility improvements
- Increased joint range of motion through spinal manipulation and electro-stimulation
- Enhanced muscle flexibility and reduced tension, which is valuable for athletes and active individuals [5]
- Prevention of future injuries via better alignment and balanced musculature
Stress reduction
- Promoted relaxation during sessions, lowering anxiety by stimulating parasympathetic response
- Improved mental wellbeing thanks to endorphin and serotonin release [5]
- Relief from tension headaches and migraines through combined neurological and musculoskeletal interventions
Ensuring safety measures
Your wellbeing is the top priority. Both acupuncture and chiropractic care are generally safe when performed by qualified practitioners, but awareness of common reactions and contraindications is essential.
Possible reactions
- Acupuncture may cause minor bruising or soreness at needle sites
- Chiropractic adjustments can lead to temporary muscle stiffness or mild discomfort
- Some patients experience fatigue or lightheadedness immediately after treatment
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy may preclude needling
- Certain spinal conditions, such as severe osteoporosis, spinal infections, or fractures, require modified chiropractic approaches
- Pregnancy or implanted medical devices should be disclosed so your provider can adapt techniques
Managing post-care recovery
After each session, proper self-care helps you maintain gains and accelerate healing. Simple steps at home reinforce the effects of your bundle.
Home care tips
- Stay well hydrated to support circulation and toxin clearance
- Apply gentle stretches or prescribed exercises to maintain alignment and muscle tone
- Use heat or ice packs on treated areas as recommended by your provider
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to extend stress relief
Follow-up scheduling
Most protocols involve an initial phase of four to six visits over four to six weeks to gauge your response and refine your care plan [6]. As you progress, frequency typically decreases, transitioning to maintenance sessions every few months or as needed.
Selecting the right provider
Your experience with an acupuncture and chiropractic bundle depends significantly on provider expertise and clinic environment. Use the following criteria to guide your choice.
Credentials to seek
- Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc) certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
- Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) with state board approval and continuing education credentials
- Additional training in integrative techniques or certifications in areas like sports chiropractic or medical acupuncture
Clinic environment
- Collaborative teams offering integrative chiropractic acupuncture under one roof
- Clean, comfortable treatment rooms with private spaces for needling and adjustments
- Transparent pricing for acupuncture and chiropractic center packages and clear scheduling policies
- Amenities such as heated tables, soothing music, and supportive staff to enhance your comfort
By following these guidelines and understanding what to expect from your acupuncture and chiropractic bundle, you’ll be well equipped to embark on a journey toward lasting relief, improved function, and enhanced wellbeing. Reach out to your chosen clinic to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step toward integrative, holistic care.
