Acupuncture Saskatoon

At Axis Health Center in Saskatoon, we provide both acupuncture and dry needling as part of our integrative approach to pain relief, injury recovery, and physical well-being. While the techniques may appear similar, they come from distinct backgrounds and serve unique purposes. Whether you’re dealing with chronic tension, postural strain, or musculoskeletal injuries, our licensed practitioners use these therapies to help your body heal naturally and without relying on medications or invasive surgeries.

By Jihun S., Licensed Acupuncturist & Certified Dry Needling Practitioner – Axis Health Center

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a time-tested form of therapy rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves the precise insertion of ultra-fine needles into specific points on the body to restore balance, regulate energy (Qi), and stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

While acupuncture has been practiced for centuries, modern science continues to validate its benefits — particularly for chronic pain, stress relief, sleep disorders, headaches, and even digestive issues. At Axis Health, we use a blend of traditional techniques and modern clinical assessment to provide effective, individualized acupuncture treatments in a safe, professional environment.

What Conditions Can Acupuncture Help With?

Acupuncture is known to assist with a wide range of health concerns, including:

• Tension headaches and migraines

• Chronic neck and back pain

• TMJ and jaw tension

• Stress and anxiety

• Digestive imbalance

• Menstrual discomfort

• Insomnia and fatigue

• Support for fertility and hormone regulation

In Saskatoon’s colder seasons, we often see people with increased muscle tension, joint stiffness, and stress-related symptoms; all of which acupuncture can help ease.

What to Expect From an Acupuncture Session

Your session begins with a full assessment to understand your health history, current symptoms, and goals. Based on this, your practitioner selects acupuncture points specific to your needs. Most people describe the sensation as painless or minimally noticeable — often followed by a deep sense of calm and relaxation.

Treatments typically last between 30–45 minutes. You may feel results after just one session, though a series of visits is often recommended for longer-standing issues.

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a modern therapeutic technique performed by trained physiotherapists or chiropractors. Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in Chinese medicine, dry needling is based in Western anatomical science. The goal is to target specific anatomical structures like nerves, ligaments, muscles and tendons that contribute to pain, stiffness, and restricted movement.

Dry needling involves inserting a thin needle directly into tight muscle bands to stimulate a twitch response, reduce tension, and improve range of motion. It’s especially effective for musculoskeletal pain, postural imbalances, and sports-related injuries.

How Does Dry Needling Differ From Acupuncture?

Although both use similar-looking needles, the intent, technique, and philosophy behind each therapy are quite different.

Acupuncture aims to balance the body’s energy and stimulate organ systems. It often uses standardized point combinations based on traditional diagnostic patterns.

Dry needling, on the other hand, targets specific muscle fibers and trigger points based on a physical examination. It’s often used as part of a broader physiotherapy or chiropractic treatment plan and is focused on biomechanical dysfunction.

At Axis Health, we help you determine which approach, or combination of both, is most appropriate for your condition.

When Is Dry Needling Recommended?

Dry needling is commonly used to treat:

• Chronic muscle tightness

• Sports injuries and overuse syndromes

• Low back and hip pain

• Shoulder pain and rotator cuff issues

• Neck stiffness and tension headaches

• Sciatica and gluteal trigger points

Many patients feel immediate relief after dry needling, especially when combined with movement retraining or soft tissue therapy.

Who Performs These Treatments?

Our acupuncture services are performed by licensed acupuncturist, Dr. Jihun S. who is trained in both traditional and modern techniques. Dry needling is offered by our chiropractor, Dr. Austin who is certified in intramuscular stimulation (IMS) and myofascial trigger point therapy.

We prioritize safety, precision, and patient comfort in every session, so whether you’re trying acupuncture for the first time or incorporating dry needling into your rehab program.

You can view our team here.

Insurance and Direct Billing

Both acupuncture and dry needling may be covered under your extended health benefits. We offer direct billing to most major providers. For patients with SGI or WCB claims, we can assist with documentation and claim support.

If you’re not sure whether your plan includes coverage, our front desk team will be happy to help you verify.

Book Acupuncture or Dry Needling in Saskatoon

You don’t need a referral to get started. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic pain, or just looking to feel better in your body, we’re here to help.

Call 306-954-4242 for any questions you have or to get started!