Acupuncture in Raleigh, with needles or without
Brett Hightower practices Neuropuncture, a neurological form of acupuncture. He places thin needles near the nerves that serve the area that hurts.
Needle-free laser acupuncture is here if needles make you uneasy.
Questions first? Call (919) 931-3744.
What acupuncture is, and how it works
Acupuncture is a therapy rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine that has been used for centuries.
During treatment, very thin, sterile needles are placed at selected points on the body. Brett Hightower chooses the points based on your symptoms, health history and goals.
The aim is to stimulate specific points associated with the body's nervous, muscular and connective tissue systems. The number and placement of needles vary from person to person.
Your treatment recommendations are based on your condition, your overall health and what you want from care.
Acupuncture may be part of a care plan for
- Back, neck and shoulder pain
- Joint and muscle discomfort
- Headaches and migraines
- Sciatica and nerve-related discomfort
- Stress and physical tension
- Sleep difficulties
- Digestive concerns
- Sports-related discomfort and recovery
- General wellness and relaxation
Acupuncture is meant to go along with your healthcare plan. It is not a substitute for emergency medical care or for treatment from your primary healthcare provider. Individual results vary.
Acupuncture without needles
Needles make you uneasy? We offer Needle-free laser acupuncture.
Brett Hightower can work on the same points with laser light, with no needles at all.
Depending on your needs and what you prefer, acupuncture with needles can also be combined with laser acupuncture in your plan.
What happens at an appointment
Your first visit starts with a conversation about your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle and goals. Brett Hightower then explains the treatment plan he recommends and answers your questions before he begins.
- We review your symptoms, health history and goals.
- Brett Hightower selects acupuncture points based on your needs.
- Very thin, sterile needles are placed at those points.
- You rest while the needles stay in place.
- We check your progress and adjust your next treatments as needed.
What it feels like
You may feel a brief tingling, warmth, heaviness or mild pressure when the needles go in. Many patients report little discomfort and describe the treatment as calming and relaxing.
How your care is set up
- Built from your history
- Each plan starts from your symptoms, health history, comfort level and goals. It looks at your overall health and lifestyle, not only one symptom.
- Explained first
- Brett Hightower explains your plan and answers your questions before every treatment.
- Alongside your other care
- Acupuncture may be used with physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, fitness programs and other medical treatments, when that's appropriate.
- With or without needles
- You can have acupuncture with needles, Needle-free laser acupuncture, or a plan that combines the two.
Questions people ask
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when a properly trained provider uses sterile, single-use needles. Before treatment, Brett Hightower reviews your medical history, medications and current health concerns to check that acupuncture is right for you.
Are the needles sterile?
Yes. We use sterile, single-use needles and dispose of them safely after every treatment.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing that lets us reach the treatment areas. Depending on the area, we may give you a gown or drape for your comfort.
Should I eat first?
A light meal or snack before your appointment is generally recommended. Try not to arrive very hungry, or right after a heavy meal.
Can I have acupuncture while taking medication?
Many patients do, with prescription or over-the-counter medicines. Tell Brett Hightower about every medication and supplement you take, and never stop a prescribed medication without asking your healthcare provider.
How many treatments will I need?
It depends on your condition, how long you've had symptoms, your overall health and your goals. After your evaluation, Brett Hightower recommends a treatment plan.
Does insurance cover acupuncture?
Coverage varies by insurer and plan. Contact your insurance company to check your acupuncture benefits, your deductible and any referral requirements.
Find the office
Hightower Acupuncture and Laser
1705 Pacific Drive, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27609
Call for opening times and to set up a visit.
Insurance and cost
We haven't listed insurance plans on this site yet. Call and ask about your plan, and what a visit will cost, before you come in.
Talk with us first
Call and talk through what's going on, and whether Neuropuncture, acupuncture or laser therapy fits.
