Acupuncture in Naperville IL by Dr Jennifer Wise at Synergy Institute Acupuncture & Chiropractic in Naperville IL 4931 Illinois Rte 59 Suite 121 Naperville IL 60564 (630) 355-8022

Acupuncture in Naperville IL

You’ve been thinking about trying acupuncture. Maybe you’ve been dealing with pain that won’t quit—back pain, neck pain, headaches—and the usual approach isn’t cutting it. Medications dull the edge but never fix the problem. Physical therapy helped for a while, then plateaued. Someone you trust mentioned acupuncture, and now you’re researching acupuncture in Naperville to figure out if it’s worth your time.

Here’s what I want you to know: acupuncture isn’t some mysterious, woo-woo treatment. It’s one of the most researched non-drug therapies in the world, backed by thousands of clinical studies and recognized by the World Health Organization for treating dozens of conditions. I’m Dr. Jennifer Wise—a Palmer College of Chiropractic graduate, licensed acupuncturist, and founder of Synergy Institute in Naperville, where I’ve been treating patients for over 25 years.

What makes our approach different? I don’t just do acupuncture. As both a Doctor of Chiropractic and a licensed acupuncturist, I can diagnose the structural cause of your pain AND treat it—often in the same visit. That’s something most acupuncture-only clinics simply can’t offer.

In this article, I’ll explain exactly how acupuncture works (the real science, not the mystical version), what conditions it treats, what electroacupuncture is and why it matters, and how to know if you’re a good candidate. I’ll also be honest about when acupuncture isn’t the right answer.

Acupuncture Quick Facts

What You Should Know The Details
How it works Stimulates the nervous system to release endorphins, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow
Conditions treated Back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, knee pain, arthritis, anxiety, and 40+ others
Treatment time 30–45 minutes per session
How many sessions Most patients see results within 4–8 sessions
Does it hurt? Minimal discomfort—most patients relax or fall asleep during treatment
Who performs it Dr. Jennifer Wise, DC, Licensed Acupuncturist — 25+ years experience

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a treatment method that involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to trigger natural healing responses. It’s been practiced for over 2,500 years as part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and it’s now one of the most widely studied complementary therapies in modern medicine.

The traditional explanation centers on qi (pronounced “chee”)—the body’s vital energy that flows through pathways called meridians. When that flow gets disrupted by injury, stress, or illness, pain and dysfunction follow. Acupuncture restores the flow.

That’s the classical framework. Here’s the modern science.

How Acupuncture Works: The Modern Science

What we now know is that acupuncture works through several well-documented physiological mechanisms. When I insert a needle into an acupuncture point, it triggers a cascade of responses in your body:

Endorphin release. Acupuncture stimulates afferent nerve fibers—the nerves that carry signals from your body to your brain. This triggers the release of endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers, along with other neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine. The result is genuine, measurable pain relief that doesn’t come from a pill.

Inflammation reduction. Research published in peer-reviewed journals shows that acupuncture downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines—the chemical messengers that drive chronic inflammation. For conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, and chronic pain, this anti-inflammatory effect is a major part of why acupuncture works.

Improved blood circulation. Needle stimulation increases local blood flow to the treated area, which brings oxygen and nutrients needed for healing while removing metabolic waste products. This is especially important for areas with naturally poor blood supply, like tendons and joint cartilage.

Nervous system regulation. Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system—your body’s “rest and repair” mode. This is why so many patients feel deeply relaxed during treatment, and why acupuncture can help with conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and stress-related pain.

In my experience, the patients who get the best results are the ones who understand that acupuncture isn’t magic—it’s applied neuroscience. The needles are the delivery mechanism, but the healing comes from your own body’s response.

Electroacupuncture: Why It Matters

Here’s what most people don’t realize: not all acupuncture is the same.

At Synergy Institute, I use electroacupuncture in addition to traditional needle acupuncture. Electroacupuncture involves attaching small clips to the acupuncture needles and delivering a gentle, controlled electrical current between them. Most patients describe it as a mild buzzing or tapping sensation—not painful.

Why does this matter? Because research shows that electroacupuncture can amplify and extend the therapeutic effects of standard acupuncture in several important ways:

  • Stronger endorphin release — The electrical stimulation activates deeper nerve fibers that manual needling alone may not reach, triggering a more robust pain-relieving response
  • Faster inflammation control — Studies show electroacupuncture activates anti-inflammatory pathways more effectively than manual acupuncture for certain conditions
  • Better outcomes for stubborn pain — For patients with chronic pain that hasn’t responded well to other treatments, electroacupuncture often provides the extra push needed to break through

I don’t use electroacupuncture on every patient or every condition. It depends on what you’re dealing with. But having this capability is a real advantage—and it’s something most acupuncture clinics in the Naperville area don’t offer.

Conditions We Treat with Acupuncture in Naperville

One of the things I appreciate about acupuncture is its versatility. The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as effective for over 40 conditions. Here are the ones I treat most frequently at Synergy Institute:

Pain Conditions

Condition How Acupuncture Helps
Back pain Reduces muscle spasm, decreases inflammation, promotes disc healing
Neck pain Releases trigger points, improves cervical range of motion
Headaches and migraines Reduces frequency and intensity by regulating blood flow and nerve signals
Sciatica Decreases nerve inflammation, relieves piriformis muscle tension
Knee pain Addresses inflammation, stimulates cartilage repair response
Shoulder pain Improves rotator cuff circulation, reduces frozen shoulder stiffness
TMJ and jaw pain Relaxes overactive jaw muscles, reduces joint inflammation
Arthritis Anti-inflammatory effects, improved joint mobility, pain reduction
Neuropathy Stimulates nerve regeneration pathways, improves peripheral circulation
Plantar fasciitis Reduces fascial inflammation, promotes tissue repair

Beyond Pain

Acupuncture isn’t just for pain. I also treat patients dealing with:

  • Stress and anxiety — Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowers cortisol
  • Insomnia — Regulates melatonin and serotonin production
  • Digestive issues — Improves gut motility and reduces inflammation
  • Fatigue and low energy — Enhances cellular energy production and circulation

The bottom line: if you’re dealing with a condition driven by pain, inflammation, nerve dysfunction, or stress, there’s a good chance acupuncture can help. And if it can’t, I’ll tell you that directly.

Why Acupuncture Works Better as Part of an Integrative Plan

Here’s something I’ve learned after 25 years of practice: acupuncture alone is powerful, but acupuncture combined with the right complementary treatments? That’s where the real results happen.

This is what sets Synergy Institute apart from every other acupuncture clinic in Naperville. We don’t just do acupuncture. Under one roof, you have access to:

  • Chiropractic care — Corrects the structural misalignments that may be causing or contributing to your pain
  • Spinal decompression — Creates negative pressure in damaged discs to promote healing (we were one of the first clinics in Illinois to offer this, back in 2002)
  • SoftWave therapy — Acoustic wave technology that recruits your own stem cells to the injury site (we were the first provider in Naperville, starting in 2021)
  • MLS laser therapy — Dual-wavelength laser that accelerates tissue repair at the cellular level

Think of it this way: if your back pain is caused by a herniated disc that’s compressing a nerve, acupuncture can reduce the inflammation and pain—but decompression addresses the disc itself, and chiropractic corrects the spinal alignment that contributed to the problem. Each treatment handles a different piece of the puzzle.

Most clinics can only offer one piece. We can offer all of them, coordinated into a single treatment plan designed around what’s actually causing your pain. That’s the integrative approach, and it’s why our patients often get results that have eluded them elsewhere.

What Makes Synergy Different from Other Naperville Acupuncture Clinics

I know you have choices when it comes to acupuncture in Naperville. Here’s what I think you should consider:

A Dual-Credentialed Provider

I’m both a Doctor of Chiropractic and a licensed acupuncturist. That matters because I can evaluate your musculoskeletal system, review your MRI or X-rays, identify the structural root cause of your pain, and then build an acupuncture protocol specifically targeted to that cause. Most acupuncturists aren’t trained in spinal diagnosis. Most chiropractors don’t do acupuncture. You get both with me.

Root Cause, Not Just Symptom Relief

Different conditions require different acupuncture approaches. Sciatica caused by a herniated disc needs a completely different point selection than sciatica caused by piriformis syndrome. I don’t use a one-size-fits-all protocol—I identify what’s driving your pain and target my treatment accordingly.

25+ Years of Clinical Experience

I’ve been in practice since 2000. That’s over 25 years of seeing patients with complex, overlapping conditions—the kind of cases that don’t fit neatly into a textbook. Pattern recognition matters in healthcare, and there’s no substitute for experience.

Advanced Technology Under One Roof

Synergy Institute isn’t just an acupuncture clinic. We offer spinal decompression, SoftWave therapy, MLS laser, chiropractic adjustments, and more—all coordinated by the same provider. You don’t get bounced between three different offices hoping someone connects the dots. I connect them.

Honest Assessment

Here’s what I tell every new patient: if I don’t think acupuncture—or any treatment we offer—can help you, I’ll tell you directly. I’d rather refer you to someone who can actually solve your problem than take your money for treatments that won’t work. Not everyone is a good candidate, and that’s okay.

Is Acupuncture Right for You?

You May Be a Good Candidate If:

  • You have chronic or recurring pain that hasn’t fully resolved with medication, physical therapy, or other treatments
  • You’re dealing with headaches, migraines, or tension that affects your quality of life
  • You want a drug-free approach to pain management
  • You have joint pain, arthritis, or inflammation-related conditions
  • You’re recovering from an injury and want to accelerate healing
  • You experience stress, anxiety, or sleep problems that affect your daily function
  • You’re looking for treatment that addresses root causes, not just symptoms

You May NOT Be a Good Candidate If:

  • You have a bleeding disorder or are on high-dose blood thinners (relative contraindication—we evaluate case by case)
  • You have a pacemaker or implanted electrical device (electroacupuncture is contraindicated; traditional acupuncture may still be appropriate)
  • You’re looking for a one-visit miracle cure (acupuncture works cumulatively—most patients need a series of treatments)
  • Your condition requires surgical intervention (some fractures, severe nerve compression, etc.)

“If I don’t think we can help you, I’ll tell you directly. I’d rather refer you to someone who can help than waste your time and money.”

The best way to find out if you’re a good candidate is to come in for an evaluation. I’ll review your history, examine your condition, and give you an honest answer about what I think acupuncture—and our integrative approach—can do for you.

What to Expect at Your First Acupuncture Visit

If you’ve never had acupuncture, I understand the uncertainty. Here’s exactly what happens:

Your Evaluation

We start with a thorough evaluation. I want to understand your complete picture—not just where it hurts, but why. I’ll review your health history, any imaging you have (MRI, X-ray), your current medications, and what treatments you’ve already tried. This isn’t a 5-minute intake. I take the time to understand your situation because the right treatment starts with the right diagnosis.

Your Treatment

Based on your evaluation, I’ll select the acupuncture points specific to your condition. The needles are incredibly thin—much thinner than the needles used for injections or blood draws. Most patients feel a slight sensation when the needle is inserted—sometimes a tiny pinch, sometimes nothing at all. Many of my patients actually fall asleep during treatment.

The needles stay in place for approximately 20–30 minutes. If I’m using electroacupuncture, you’ll feel a gentle pulsing sensation that most people find comfortable and even relaxing.

Your Treatment Plan

After your first visit, I’ll outline a recommended treatment plan. Most conditions respond well to a series of 6–12 sessions, typically scheduled once or twice per week initially. Some patients notice improvement after the very first session. Others need 3–4 sessions before they feel a meaningful shift. Every patient is different, and I’ll set honest expectations based on your specific situation.

As you improve, we typically space sessions further apart—transitioning from active treatment to maintenance care if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture in Naperville

Does acupuncture hurt?

This is the number one question I get. The short answer: no, not really. Acupuncture needles are about the width of a human hair—far thinner than hypodermic needles used for shots. Most patients feel a mild sensation on insertion, often described as a tiny pinch or a dull ache that fades quickly. Many patients become so relaxed during treatment that they fall asleep. If you’re nervous about needles, I completely understand—and I work with anxious patients regularly. The experience is nothing like getting a shot.

How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

It depends on your condition, how long you’ve had it, and your overall health. Acute conditions (a recent injury, for example) often respond in 4–6 sessions. Chronic conditions that have been present for months or years typically need 8–12 sessions to see significant improvement. I’ll give you a clear treatment recommendation after your evaluation so you know what to expect—no open-ended commitments.

What conditions does acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture is recognized by the World Health Organization for over 40 conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, migraines, sciatica, knee pain, arthritis, neuropathy, TMJ, shoulder pain, anxiety, insomnia, and digestive disorders. At Synergy Institute, I focus primarily on pain conditions and musculoskeletal issues, where acupuncture combined with our other treatments produces the strongest results.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans now cover acupuncture, though coverage varies significantly between plans. Some plans cover a set number of sessions per year; others require a specific diagnosis. Our office can verify your insurance benefits before your first visit so there are no surprises. We also offer affordable self-pay options.

What is electroacupuncture and how is it different from regular acupuncture?

Electroacupuncture uses the same thin needles as traditional acupuncture, but adds a gentle electrical current between paired needles. This amplifies the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, making it especially useful for chronic pain, nerve-related conditions, and cases where standard acupuncture hasn’t provided full relief. The electrical current feels like a mild buzzing or tapping—not painful. I use electroacupuncture selectively based on each patient’s condition and response to treatment.

Can acupuncture help with chronic pain?

Yes—and this is one of acupuncture’s strongest applications. A landmark JAMA Internal Medicine meta-analysis examined data from nearly 18,000 patients and concluded that acupuncture is effective for chronic pain conditions including back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, and headaches. In my practice, chronic pain patients are actually the ones who tend to benefit most from our integrative approach, because chronic pain is almost always multi-factorial—it has structural, inflammatory, and neurological components that benefit from being addressed simultaneously.

How does acupuncture work with chiropractic care?

They complement each other extremely well. Chiropractic adjustments address structural alignment—making sure your spine and joints are positioned correctly. Acupuncture addresses the soft tissue side—reducing muscle tension, decreasing inflammation, and calming overactive nerve signals. When I use both together, patients often respond faster and more completely than with either treatment alone. This is one of the biggest advantages of seeing a provider who is trained in both disciplines.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is one of the safest therapeutic interventions available when performed by a licensed practitioner. The most common side effects are mild and temporary—occasional slight bruising at a needle site, or brief lightheadedness after treatment. Serious adverse events are extremely rare. I use only sterile, single-use disposable needles, and my dual training as a Doctor of Chiropractic means I have an in-depth understanding of anatomy that adds an extra layer of safety to every treatment.

What should I do before my first acupuncture appointment?

Come in comfortable clothing that allows access to your arms, legs, and back. Eat a light meal within a few hours of your appointment—don’t come on an empty stomach. Avoid heavy exercise or alcohol immediately before treatment. Bring any relevant medical records, imaging results, or a list of medications. Most importantly, come with questions—I want you to feel informed and comfortable before we start.

How long does an acupuncture session take?

Plan for approximately 60 minutes for your first visit, which includes the evaluation and treatment. Follow-up sessions typically run 30–45 minutes. The needles themselves stay in place for about 20–30 minutes, which is the therapeutic window where your nervous system is responding to the stimulation.

Can acupuncture help with stress and anxiety?

Absolutely. Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system—the part of your nervous system responsible for relaxation and recovery. Research shows it helps regulate cortisol levels and neurotransmitter balance. Many of my pain patients report that their stress and sleep improve as a welcome side benefit of treatment, even when pain was their primary reason for coming in.

Why choose a chiropractor who does acupuncture versus an acupuncture-only clinic?

Because diagnosis matters. When you see an acupuncture-only provider, they’re limited to treating what they observe and what you tell them. When you see me, I can perform a full musculoskeletal examination, review your MRI or imaging, identify specific structural problems like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or joint degeneration, and then design an acupuncture protocol that specifically targets the root cause. I can also combine acupuncture with chiropractic adjustments, decompression, or other treatments in the same visit. You get a more accurate diagnosis and a more comprehensive treatment plan.

Ready to Find Out If Acupuncture Can Help You?

Pain doesn’t have to control your life. Whether you’re dealing with chronic back pain, recurring headaches, nagging joint pain, or a condition that hasn’t responded to other treatments, acupuncture may be the missing piece you’ve been looking for.

At Synergy Institute in Naperville, Dr. Jennifer Wise and our team have helped thousands of patients find lasting relief through our integrative approach. If I don’t think we can help you, I’ll tell you directly—and help you find someone who can.

Call or text (630) 454-1300 to schedule your consultation.

What to expect at your first visit:

  • Complete evaluation of your condition
  • Review of your MRI or imaging
  • Honest assessment of your treatment options
  • Same-day treatment if appropriate

Synergy Institute Acupuncture & Chiropractic 4931 Illinois Route 59, Suite 121 Naperville, IL 60564

Serving Naperville, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Aurora, Oswego, and surrounding communities.

References

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  2. World Health Organization. Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials. WHO. 2002. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/acupuncture-review-and-analysis-of-reports-on-controlled-clinical-trials
  3. Zhao ZQ. Neural mechanism underlying acupuncture analgesia. Progress in Neurobiology. 2008;85(4):355-375. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18582529/
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  6. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Acupuncture: What You Need to Know. NCCIH. 2024. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture-what-you-need-to-know
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  8. Zhang R, et al. Mechanisms of acupuncture-electroacupuncture on persistent pain. Anesthesiology. 2014;120(2):482-503. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24322588/
  9. MacPherson H, et al. Acupuncture for chronic pain and depression in primary care: a programme of research. Programme Grants for Applied Research. 2017;5(3). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28211659/
  10. Linde K, et al. Acupuncture for the prevention of episodic migraine. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2016;(6):CD001218. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27351677/
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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions. Individual results may vary.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

Last reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Wise, DC — February 2026