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Acupuncture in St. Louis
West End Chiropractic & Rehab Center offers acupuncture in St. Louis' Central West End, performed by Dr. Michael Gerdine, DC, who is certified in acupuncture and completed advanced clinical training in Beijing, China, in 2016. Thin needles stay in place for 5 to 20 minutes, and acupuncture is often combined with chiropractic care and rehab for back pain, neck pain and muscle tension. No referral needed.
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of natural care, and it fits the philosophy Dr. Gerdine has practiced by since 2000: the power that made the body heals the body. Rather than masking pain with medication, acupuncture aims to support your body's own ability to calm tension and recover. For many patients it works best as one part of a broader plan that also includes adjustments and targeted exercise.
Who Acupuncture Is For
Acupuncture may be a good fit if any of these sound familiar:
- Chronic low back or mid-back pain that keeps returning
- Neck pain, stiffness or tech-neck tension from long hours at a desk
- Tight, guarded muscles that make it hard to relax into other treatment
- Radiating pain from sciatica alongside other conservative care
- Lingering soreness after an auto accident or whiplash
- You prefer a drug-free option, or want to rely less on pain medication
Not sure? That's what the first visit is for. Dr. Gerdine will tell you honestly whether acupuncture makes sense for your situation.
Advanced Training in Beijing, China
Dr. Michael L. Gerdine is a St. Louis native, a licensed chiropractor since 1999 and a graduate of Logan College of Chiropractic. He is certified in acupuncture, and in 2016 he completed advanced clinical training in Beijing, China, under Dr. Zhu. That combination means your acupuncture is delivered by a doctor who also understands the spine, joints and muscles, and can fit acupuncture into a complete plan. Learn more about Dr. Gerdine.
How Acupuncture Fits Into Your Care
Acupuncture
Very thin needles placed at specific points may help ease muscle tension and pain. Needles can be gently stimulated with electricity or heat.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Hands-on adjustments restore joint movement and alignment. Many patients find adjustments easier once muscles have relaxed.
Spinal Decompression
Gentle, non-surgical traction for disc problems and pinched nerves, often paired with acupuncture for stubborn back pain.
Spinal Rehabilitation
Targeted exercises in our on-site rehab center build the strength that helps keep pain from coming back.
Shockwave Therapy
D.A.R.T. acoustic-wave therapy for tendon and soft-tissue pain that hasn't responded to other care.
Knee Care
Non-invasive knee decompression and rehab for knee pain, with acupuncture added when it may help.
What to Expect During Acupuncture
- Conversation and exam. Dr. Gerdine listens first: where it hurts, how long it has been going on and what you want to get back to.
- Needle placement. Thin needles are placed at points selected for your condition. Most people feel only a brief sensation as each one goes in.
- Rest. Needles usually stay in place for 5 to 20 minutes. They may be gently stimulated with electricity or heat, and many patients find this part relaxing.
- Removal and next steps. Needles are removed and you can return to your day. A course of up to about 12 treatments is common, depending on your condition and response.
Acupuncture vs. Other Pain Treatments
| Acupuncture | Thin needles, drug-free, minimally invasive. May help ease pain and muscle tension; usually given as a series of sessions. |
|---|---|
| Chiropractic adjustments | Hands-on, drug-free care focused on joint alignment and movement. Often combined with acupuncture at our office. |
| Pain medication | Can reduce symptoms short term but does not address the underlying cause, and some patients prefer to avoid it. |
| Injections or surgery | Usually considered when conservative care hasn't helped. Many patients try natural, non-invasive options first. |
Why St. Louis Patients Choose West End Chiropractic for Acupuncture
- Acupuncture by a certified doctor with 26+ years of clinical experience
- Advanced clinical training in Beijing, China (2016)
- Recognized as one of St. Louis's Top Doctors
- Acupuncture, chiropractic, decompression and rehab under one roof
- Central West End location at 4255 Laclede Avenue, close to Midtown, Forest Park, University City and Clayton
- Walk-ins welcome; same-day appointments often available
See every option on our services page.
Acupuncture FAQs
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most patients feel only a brief sensation as each needle is placed. The needles are very thin, and many people find the session relaxing once they are in. Tell Dr. Gerdine if anything feels uncomfortable and he will adjust.
How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
It depends on your condition and how your body responds. A course of up to about 12 treatments is common, and some patients notice changes sooner. You will get an honest plan after your first exam.
How long does an acupuncture session take?
The needles typically stay in place for 5 to 20 minutes. Your full visit takes longer because it includes a conversation, a check-in on your progress and setup. Ask for a time estimate when you book.
Can acupuncture help back pain?
Acupuncture may help ease back pain and muscle tension for many patients, especially in chronic cases. At West End Chiropractic it is often combined with chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression and rehab. Dr. Gerdine will tell you whether it makes sense for your back.
How much does acupuncture cost in St. Louis?
Pricing varies with your condition and treatment plan, so the most accurate answer comes from a quick call to (314) 361-4650. The office is primarily cash-based, and staff can walk you through options before you start.
Is acupuncture covered by insurance?
West End Chiropractic is primarily a cash-based practice. The office also accepts personal injury and auto accident cases. Call (314) 361-4650 to ask how your visit would be handled.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a trained, certified practitioner. Dr. Gerdine is certified in acupuncture and has been a licensed chiropractor since 1999. Let him know about any medical conditions or medications before treatment.
Should I get acupuncture or chiropractic care?
Many patients do best with both. Chiropractic adjustments address joint alignment and movement, while acupuncture may help calm muscle tension and pain. Dr. Gerdine offers both under one roof and recommends a combination based on your exam.
Hear From Our Patients
Curious Whether Acupuncture Can Help You?
Start with a conversation and an exam. We'll tell you honestly what we think will help and build a plan around your goals.