Last Updated on June 15, 2025 by Brenda

We often associate “big results” in healthcare with complex procedures or powerful medications. But what if tiny interventions could unlock significant healing within your own body?  During this Health IQ Podcast Episode we delved into the fascinating world of acupuncture with Dr. Tina Guerrero, a local expert who brings a wealth of knowledge to Tucumcari, New Mexico.

Acupuncture, with its roots stretching back around 5000 years in Asian cultures, is more than just the insertion of tiny needles. It’s a sophisticated art form, a holistic practice that involves a deep understanding of the body’s intricate systems and energy pathways.

The science behind acupuncture, as Dr. Guerrero elucidates, involves two key theories. One centers on activating the nervous system, either suppressing pain signals or stimulating function in areas experiencing numbness. The other focuses on the circulatory system, influencing blood flow to promote healing and nutrient delivery. Interestingly, Dr. Guerrero believes both systems are likely intertwined in acupuncture’s effectiveness because our circulatory and nervous systems overlap as they traverse our bodies.

The initial exam will include looking at the tongue for features that may indicate the causes of the bodies in balance and check the 6 different pluses in your wrists and muscle testing.  The pulses on each wrist correspond to different organs in the body.  This detailed evaluation allows her to create a personalized treatment plan, targeting specific acupuncture points to address the individual’s unique imbalances.

Forget those scary images of long, thick needles! Acupuncture utilizes incredibly fine needles, often thinner than a human hair, inserted just an eighth of an inch into specific points on the body. But don’t let their size fool you. These tiny needles can trigger profound responses within your nervous and circulatory systems.  The “art” of acupuncture also lies in the practitioner’s skill and intuition. Dr. Guerrero’s Tibetan Chinese style involves a nuanced approach, often using two sets of needles – the first to balance the overall system, and the second to address specific areas of concern, whether physical or emotional.

Beyond pain management, which many associate with acupuncture, it has potential for a wide range of conditions. From hormonal imbalances and women’s health issues to digestive problems, allergies, and even mental well-being, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to restoring balance.  Bringing our bodies back in balance will help our own systems care for our health needs.  Acupuncture is a slower process will take multiple treatments.  Usually 10 treatments and needed and they are about once a week.

Acupuncture is becoming more accepted in Western medicine and several major universities has studied its efficacy.  They are currently looking at its affects for strengthening the immunity system and for helping people with Parkinson’s disease.

So, how can these tiny needles lead to such big results? By tapping into your body’s innate healing capabilities. Acupuncture can be like a “tune-up” for your system, helping it regain equilibrium and function optimally.  She uses a two-needle system.  The first set helps brings our body into balance and the second set focuses on the issue being treated.  The process has a calming effect as our bodies are brought balance.

Listen to the full podcast here: Tiny Needles Big Results