Question 1

Who should not get acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

While acupuncture is a safe, non-invasive therapy for most people, certain medical situations require specialized clearance or technique modifications. Individuals with active, severe bleeding disorders or those on high-dose anticoagulant medications should inform their practitioner so gentle techniques (such as acupressure or laser stimulation) can be used. Patients with implanted cardiac pacemakers should avoid electro-acupuncture (traditional manual acupuncture remains safe). Acute medical emergencies (such as suspected heart attacks, strokes, or severe hemorrhages) require immediate emergency medical care before holistic treatments. In addition, pregnant women should avoid specific acupuncture points known to stimulate uterine contractions (Dr. Tracey Baca is experienced in safe prenatal care). Finally, needles are never placed over active skin infections or open wounds.

Question 2

What are the four golden rules of acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

In classical and clinical Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Four Golden Rules guide diagnosis and effective healing: 1) Treat the Root Cause, Not Just the Symptom (Ben and Biao) — uncovering and resolving the deeper constitutional imbalance rather than merely masking pain. 2) Individualized Treatment — tailoring point selection, needle depth, and complementary modalities (moxibustion, cupping, herbs) to each person's unique presentation. 3) Prioritize Safety & Comfort — using single-use, sterile filiform needles with clean technique to trigger a relaxed parasympathetic healing response. 4) Harmonize Qi and Blood (Yin & Yang Balance) — regulating meridian pathways, dispelling stagnation, and nourishing deficiencies to activate the body's innate self-healing capacity.

Question 3

Is an acupuncturist a Chinese medicine doctor?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In the state of New Mexico, licensed acupuncturists holding the Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM) designation—such as Dr. Tracey Baca, DOM, L.Ac.—are legally recognized primary healthcare providers and Doctors of Oriental Medicine. Earning a DOM credential requires four or more years of rigorous graduate-level medical education, comprehensive training in Western biomedicine, pharmacology, physical diagnostics, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbology and acupuncture meridian science, alongside passing extensive national NCCAOM board examinations and state licensing requirements.

Question 4

Where is the best place to get acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

The best place to receive acupuncture is at a dedicated, licensed integrative healthcare clinic led by a board-certified Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM) or Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) with extensive clinical experience and private treatment rooms. In Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Corrales, NM, Attune Acupuncture & Wellness (located at 4201 Carlisle Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107) offers over 30 years of clinical experience led by Dr. Tracey Baca, DOM. The clinic provides a peaceful, sterile environment with personalized, evidence-based care including acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, trigger point therapy, cupping, and herbal medicine.

Question 5

What should you not do after acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

To maximize the restorative and anti-inflammatory benefits of your acupuncture treatment: 1) Avoid strenuous, high-intensity workouts or heavy lifting for 12–24 hours (gentle walking or light stretching is recommended). 2) Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine on the day of treatment, as they dehydrate muscle tissues and disrupt parasympathetic relaxation. 3) Avoid extreme temperatures, such as ice baths, saunas, hot tubs, or exposure to cold drafts immediately after needling. 4) Avoid skipping hydration and rest — drink plenty of room-temperature water. 5) Avoid heavy, greasy meals immediately after your session to support digestive ease.

Question 6

How often should you get acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

Treatment frequency depends on whether your condition is acute or chronic: For acute issues (such as recent muscle spasms, sports injuries, or sudden migraines), 1 to 2 sessions per week for 2 to 4 weeks often produces fast relief. For chronic conditions (such as long-standing sciatica, fibromyalgia, insomnia, or arthritis), treatments usually begin with 1 weekly session for 4 to 8 weeks, tapering down as your body stabilizes. For preventative wellness and immune support, many patients maintain monthly or seasonal 'tune-up' sessions. Dr. Tracey Baca designs a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific recovery goals.

Question 7

Does acupuncture hurt?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture needles are hair-thin, sterile, and single-use. Most patients feel minimal to no pain and describe the treatment as deeply relaxing.

Question 8

What health conditions can acupuncture treat in Albuquerque?

Accepted Answer

Attune Acupuncture & Wellness treats back and neck pain, sciatica, migraines, anxiety, insomnia, digestive disorders, and women's health concerns.

Question 9

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of treatments depends on whether your condition is acute or chronic. Dr. Tracey Baca designs a customized treatment plan during your initial visit.

Question 10

What happens during the first acupuncture visit?

Accepted Answer

Your first visit includes a detailed medical history evaluation, physical checkup, and a full acupuncture treatment session lasting 60-90 minutes.

Question 11

Do you offer free consultations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer a complimentary 15-minute phone or in-person consultation. Call (505) 730-0918 to speak directly with our team.

Learning Center

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Articles & Wellness Guides

Acupuncture Research

Acupuncture for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Learning Center

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who should not get acupuncture?

What are the four golden rules of acupuncture?

Is an acupuncturist a Chinese medicine doctor?

Where is the best place to get acupuncture?

Does the VA cover acupuncture through VA Community Care?

How do Veterans get a referral for acupuncture with Dr. Tracey Baca?

What conditions does the VA authorize acupuncture for?

Can I schedule before receiving VA Community Care authorization?

Articles & Wellness Guides

Acupuncture Research

Acupuncture for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)