What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a medical practice that is thousands of years old and rooted in East Asian medicine. Acupuncture is the framework for the precise insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body. These points correspond to vascular, neurological and myofascial pathways that regulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and promote the body's natural ability to heal.
At Thrive Integrative Medicine, Dr. Tyler Andres uses an approach to acupuncture that goes beyond symptom relief by integrating multiple systems in the body such as the neurological, musculoskeletal, or digestive systems. By addressing the underlying patterns contributing to your pain, injury, or dysfunction, acupuncture helps restore balance for results that last.
Whether you are dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, preparing for surgery, or looking to optimize your physical performance, acupuncture can be a powerful component of your treatment plan.
YOUR VISIT
What to Expect During Your Acupuncture Session
Every session is personalized to your specific needs. Here is what a typical visit looks like at Thrive Sports Medicine.
Acupuncture FAQs
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most patients feel little to no pain during needle insertion. Acupuncture needles are extremely thin, much thinner than a standard medical needle. You may feel a mild tingling, warmth, or heaviness at the needle site, which is a sign that the treatment is activating the intended response.
How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on your condition, its severity, and how long you have been experiencing symptoms. Acute issues may improve in 3 to 5 sessions, while chronic conditions often benefit from a longer treatment plan. Dr. Andres will discuss a recommended schedule during your initial evaluation.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. Acupuncture is a well-established, evidence-based therapy with an excellent safety profile when performed by a trained and licensed practitioner. Dr. Andres uses single-use, sterile, disposable needles for every session.
Can acupuncture be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely. Dr. Andres frequently combines acupuncture with dry needling, myofascial release, and other bodywork techniques in a single session for a comprehensive, multi-modal approach to your care.
YOUR PROVIDER
Meet Dr. Tyler Andres, DAOM, LAc
Dr. Tyler Andres was raised in Colorado and has a deep love for the outdoors, for being active, and for helping others live their best lives. He takes pride in having helped individuals for 15 years managing pain and physical health.
He completed his Doctorate at OCOM in Oregon and pursued additional training with internationally recognized organizations.
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Doctorate of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (DAOM)
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Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc)
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NCBHAM Dipl. OM Certification
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Institute of Classics in East Asian Medicine
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Neijing Acupuncture with Dr. Neal, MD
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AcuMovement Training with D. McBride
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Ling Gui Qi Gong School with Dr. Liu
EXPLORE
Related Services
Pain Management
Neuromuscular treatments addressing the root causes of chronic pain for lasting relief and improved function.
Dry Needling
Advanced dry needling techniques targeting trigger points, tight muscles, and neuromuscular dysfunction.
Bodywork & Myofascial Release
SoTai, Shiatsu, and myofascial release to relieve tension and restore mobility from a root-cause perspective.
VISIT OUR CLINIC
Thrive Sports Medicine, Salida CO
Thrive Integrative Medicine, LLC
139 East 3rd Street, Office #1
Salida, CO 81201
Phone: 719-626-1015
Email: thrivesalida@gmail.com
Monday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Appointment by Request
Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: Closed
