FAQ

Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable acupuncture is. The needles we use are extremely thin—about the width of a hair—which is much finer than needles used for injections or blood draws. You may feel a brief pinch during insertion, followed by sensations like tingling, warmth, or a dull ache, which indicates the needles are activating nerve pathways and triggering therapeutic responses. Many patients find acupuncture so relaxing they fall asleep during treatment.

Acupuncture works through multiple neurological and physiological mechanisms that modern research has validated. When needles are inserted at specific anatomical points, they stimulate nerve fibers that send signals to the brain and spinal cord. This triggers the release of endorphins (natural pain relievers), reduces inflammatory cytokines, increases local blood flow, and modulates pain signaling pathways. Research shows acupuncture activates the vagus-adrenal axis, leading to systemic anti-inflammatory effects. Functional MRI studies demonstrate that acupuncture changes activity in brain regions associated with pain processing, emotional regulation, and stress response. At South Slope, we use evidence-based protocols that target specific nerve pathways and tissue structures to achieve measurable clinical outcomes.

We specialize in treating chronic complex pain conditions including low back pain, sciatica, neck pain, headaches and migraines, fibromyalgia, arthritis, shoulder pain, elbow pain, plantar fasciitis, and acute/chronic injuries. Research has demonstrated acupuncture's effectiveness for these conditions through multiple high-quality clinical trials. We also have specialized programs for fertility support (with published success rates showing 33.8% improvement in IVF outcomes), pelvic health, facial rejuvenation, allergy elimination (NAET), and neurological conditions. Our Sports Medicine Acupuncture® approach is particularly effective for athletes and active individuals in the Asheville and Western NC community.

While both techniques use thin needles to treat pain, they differ in approach and scope. Acupuncture uses a comprehensive whole-body assessment to select needle locations based on neurological patterns, referred pain pathways, and systemic factors affecting your condition. Dry needling specifically targets trigger points—hyperirritable spots, called Trigger Points, in taut muscle bands that refer pain to other areas. At South Slope, Dr. Autum Kirgan is the only therapist in the Asheville area with extensive training in both techniques. This allows us to integrate trigger point needling with broader neuromuscular and fascial approaches, addressing both local tissue dysfunction and nervous system regulation for optimal orthopedic and sports medicine outcomes.

Yes, acupuncture is extremely safe when performed by licensed professionals. All our practitioners are board-certified and use sterile, single-use, disposable needles. Side effects are minimal and may include mild bruising or temporary soreness at needle sites. Acupuncture has significantly fewer side effects than most medications or surgical interventions for pain and chronic conditions.

We require 24-hour notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a fee. We understand emergencies happen—please call us as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment.