When to see a medical doctor instead of an acupuncturist
Safety
5 min read
Mei Tanaka, LAc
Acupuncture helps with a lot, but not everything. These are the signs that mean you should call your doctor first.
Acupuncture works well alongside medical care, and some things need a physician before anything else.
Call 911 for chest pain, sudden weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, the worst headache of your life or trouble breathing. See your doctor soon for unexplained weight loss, a fever with back pain, blood in your stool or a new lump.
If you are not sure, call us. We would rather send you to the right place than treat something that needs a different kind of care.
This article is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Results vary from person to person. If you have chest pain, sudden weakness or trouble breathing, call 911.
Written by
Mei Tanaka, LAc
Reviewed by the Willow Street clinical team.
