FIVE POINTS ACUPUNCTURE & WELLNESS
Begin your journey towards better health
How We Can Help You
THE solution to those frustrating health problems that won’t go away. If you’re struggling with a health condition that is preventing you from doing everything you want to do, please read on and see if we are the right solution for you.
Our Approach
- Our acupuncture clinic in Reading, MA specializes in chronic health conditions like Chronic Pain, Infertility, Migraines, Digestive Disorders and more.
- The goal is to get to the ROOT of your problem and correct it from the inside-out.
- First, we listen. Then we identify the cause of your health issues.
- We discuss YOUR goals and your expectations to make sure we are on the same page.
- Then we’ll customize a Care Plan for you aimed at helping you reach your health goals and enjoying your life to the fullest. You deserve it.
Acupuncture can successfully treat :
- ACUTE AND CHRONIC PAIN- Back, Neck, Hip, Shoulders, Knees, Sciatica
- MIGRAINES AND HEADACHES
- SLEEP ISSUES
- DIGESTIVE ISSUES– IBS, Constipation, Diarrhea, Colitis, Chron’s
- MENTAL/ EMOTIONAL HEALTH– Stress, Anxiety, Depression
Read Our Reviews!
Google Rating
5.0
Based on 87 reviews
Five Points Acupuncture & Wellness
5.0
Danielle P.
I visited Mark because of mysterious swelling and pain in my knee. There was no injury and after ruling out infection and bone/soft tissue problems my doctors didn't have an explanation or suggestions for me. By the time I started at Five Points Acupuncture I had completely stopped all exercise, was struggling at work and was suffering flare-ups weekly. Mark listened carefully to my story and made a plan with me. He was flexible and adjusted his approach to get the best results. After 4 treatments I saw improvement and after 8 or 9 my problem was solved. I am pain free and have full mobility. I am so, so grateful and highly recommend Mark!
Marla P.
Thanks to Mark, I (76 yo)was able to fully enjoy a 3 week vacation with friends and family abroad that I almost canceled due to pain in my knee and hip. I tried Pt, myofascial release, and nothing worked. After several consecutive treatments with Mark, my pain decreased substantially and a couple of weeks later, I boarded a plane to Portugal....pain free!!! I was able to visit all the places on my wish list, hop on and off trains and busses, wander through museums and castles - some at the pace of younger family members! There are not enough stars to rate Mark. Thanks again, Mark!
Andrea A.
This was my first experience with acupuncture. I am in my 30's, very active. Had hip and neck pain from sports injuries and exercise, 3 years of playing through them. My workouts were dwindling, being replaced by recovery days and time off for stretching. I was not able to play in rec bball leagues competitively. After 3 weeks I had zero pain to my hip, have never felt better. Can play basketball and exercise hard 6 days a week when prior it was 1-2 days. Mark was excellent, highly recommend.
Jeannine D.
I started with Five Points Acupuncture about 5 weeks ago. I had TMJ pain and various aches and issues that Mark was willing to help me with. He does a thorough health history and forms a plan with you that is achievable and comfortable. I am already 90%+ improved. I highly recommend Five Points.
Corey R.
Mark did a great job understanding and treating my sudden onset back related issue. Within a period of about 2-weeks I went from hardly being able to walk in the door to his office to having no pain at all. The acupuncture and stability discussions were very helpful in alleviating my pain and hopefully reducing the likelihood of pain from future back issues.I would highly recommend Five Points Acupuncture & Wellness.
serenity N.
Mark is a very talented healer. He’s a great listener and very knowledgeable. My back pain, neck pain and knee pain are nearly gone and I have zero limits in my activities now. I was very skeptical but nothing else was working so I tried. I’m very happy with this practice and have sent family members here as well.
Nicole S.
Highly recommend Five Points Acupuncture! I was diagnosed with a frozen shoulder and told that there was no treatment and it could take over a year to heal. Mark was determined to help me. The combination of electroacupuncture, light therapy, cupping and massage eliminated the pain and significantly increased mobility within a few short months. I'd recommend acupuncture with Mark Whalen to anyone dealing with a frozen shoulder!
Sam
Mark and the team at Five Points are the best. I went to see Mark for sleep trouble and was not sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised beginning with the first session I had. I know that my sleep improved significantly and overall my energy levels improved during and after the work that I had at Five Points. I am very thankful for the care that I received and would definitely recommend Five Points to anyone!
Caitriona F.
I highly recommend Mark at Five Points Acupuncture! I was experiencing terrible pain from a pinched nerve in my shoulder and was facing surgery. I decided to give acupuncture a try as a last resort (I'll admit to being skeptical but I really didn't want surgery!) and it worked! After about 2 months of weekly treatments my pinched nerve is gone and I'm pain free! I felt that Mark really listened to what I was experiencing and obviously knew what to do to solve it. I'm now continuing to go for monthly maintenance so I can avoid having the same problem again. I'm so glad I gave acupuncture a shot and found Five Points - so much better than getting surgery!
Jennifer R.
Great experience with Mark. This was my first time having acupuncture treatment. I was having some wrist and arm pain. After 3 treatments it was gone! Mark was prompt, professional and kind.
James D.
I feel very fortunate to have discovered Five Points Acupuncture. After ten years of pursuing traditional medical treatment for my symptoms, Mark Whalen opened a range of new possibilities for relief. Mark is a thoughtful, diligent, accomplished professional. He took the time to thoroughly research my medical history to identify a treatment plan was tailored to my specific needs. Over the course of a year, his treatments involved a range of acupuncture techniques as well as thoughtful suggestions for homeopathic and herbal options. For me, the results were life changing. I was able to sleep restfully for the first time in many years. If you are considering effective treatments that focus on the person rather than just symptoms, I highly recommend Mark Whalen and Five Points.
Alex K.
I pulled out my back, and went to Five Points. This was my first acupuncture experience, and it really does feel like it helped. I had limited options for medicated pain management, but after two sessions I was feeling much more mobile. I only had 4 sessions total before I felt almost back to my normal self!
Izedin T.
I turned to Mark with severe back problems. Prior to acupuncture, I tried physical therapy, and also saw an orthopedic surgeon. To no avail, the pain persisted.My back felt better after the 2nd visit with Mark. Mark is an attentive listener, and a caring professional.
Nicole
I've had chronic migraine for 35 years, and I'd recently decided that I wanted to stop taking preventative medications, due to the significant side effects that have been affecting my long term health.I decided to try acupuncture, and honestly, it's been life changing. Typically, I have 5+ migraines per month (which is down from the previous 15+). However, after starting acupuncture with Mark, I've had 1 single migraine in 6 WEEKS. During this time, I haven't taken any meds, aside from the single use of the triptan I needed.My treatment plan was 2x per week, and the appointments last 45 mins each. The upfront time cost is not a big deal when I think about how much pain relief I've had!I also have residual pain in my forehead from years of migraine, and it's worse on my right side. Acupuncture pretty much alleviated all pain from the left side and there's only a little bit remaining on the right.So, while it's not 100% resolved, this is a HUGH improvement from where I started! I'm so grateful!!
Stephen L.
I had neck and shoulder pain for 5 months. I went to physical therapy for 6 weeks with no improvement. I was recommended to try acupuncture.When I met Mark he explained how acupuncture worked and what I should expect.In a very short time I was feeling great. I also had some sciatica pain and he worked on that also.In no time I was feeling good. I would highly recommend Five Point acupuncture and Mark.
John L.
Mark is true professional who has done wonders on my back and neck. I have been to chiropractors and other Accupunurist’s and he is by far the best.
Peter R.
I went to see Mark due to a significant pain in my glute down the entire right side of my leg. I couldn't sit down for more than 10 minutes without the pain throbbing. This affected my daily life as I'm very active. After my first session with Mark it reduced the pain by 50% and was able to sit down for much longer than 10 minutes. After the 2nd and 3rd sessions the pain continued to diminish and started feeling like my normal self again. I just completed my 4th session and can honestly say the pain has been reduced by 90%. Mark is an amazing individual and has helped me get back to normalcy!
Steve P
I went to Mark after I had been struggling with chronic neck pain, as well as frequent migraines. After a few sessions I had noticed a significant decrease in neck pain and an increased range of motion. Since I started seeing Mark, I have not experienced a migraine, approx, 2 months. He has been kind, compassionate, and honest about what he can and cannot do. I cannot recommend Mark enough to anybody struggling with pain.
Jennifer M.
I first started seeing Mark for headaches, muscle tension and treatment of my TMD disorder. He has helped tremendously and my pain is almost non existent! I then transitioned to management of pregnancy related nausea and fatigue. He again was able to help manage my symptoms and get me back on track to feeling myself. I highly recommend Five Points Acupuncture & Wellness to anyone searching for a local acupuncturist!
Paul D.
I had been dealing with blood flow issues in my legs for over two years and had been to several doctors including vascular specialists with no improvement whatsoever. After two visits with Five Points it began to feel better and within a month my legs felt better than they had in two years.
Jarrod M.
Came here for neck pain and it's completely gone after 2 treatments. I've been to PT and dealing with the pain for 3 years. Never tried acupuncture before but nothing was helping and it's covered by my insurance so I gave it a shot. I couldn't be happier, it's been a miracle cure for me. The environment is clean, professional and friendly. Highly recommend 5 points, they know what they're doing.
Katelynn C.
I never did acupuncture before so I didn't know what to expect. I was having back problems and wanted to find something that could help relieve the pain and get me back to feeling good. When my PT recommended Five Point Acupuncture, I instantly booked my first consultation with Mark. He is so informative and professional. I'm happy to say my back pain is gone and I've just continued to go since I find it so relaxing and overall helpful to my health. I'd 100% recommend Mark at Five Points Acupuncture & Wellness.
Jonna S.
I absolutely love Five Points Acupuncture & Wellness! Mark is professional, helpful and great at what he does. If you were ever thinking of exploring acupuncture, I highly recommend you book an appointment at Five Points!
Kim B.
To be honest I was not really a believer in alternative treatment. I’ve heard about the benefits of acupuncture previously but was never truly a believer. My doctor finally suggested it so I asked around and someone referred me to Mark. That was definitely one of the best decisions I’ve made in a very long time because it has changed my life after being in pain for over 11 years. I have fibromyalgia and trigeminal neuralgia amongst a few other things and have rarely found relief. I am finally able to live with minor pain only and I am now able to exercise and get myself into a better situation. None of that could have been accomplished without Mark. From day one he explained very thoroughly what I could expect and that each person is completely different. I truly felt that he wasn’t trying to push me into selling a service and truly cared about where I ended up instead. I also appreciate the precautions that he has used during the pandemic. He has made me feel comfortable throughout the last five weeks and I’ve made so much progress. He’s offered much more than just acupuncture but help with different ways of thinking about chronic pain and other helpful alternative treatments. He’s definitely made a believer out of me that alternative treatments can make a significant difference in your life. I very highly recommend him to anybody who maybe thinking about acupuncture or who struggles with any sort of chronic pain.
Dunia B.
Due to the pandemic and my field or work (health care), I developed PTSD and everything else that comes with it such as insomnia, panic attacks, agoraphobia, gastrointestinal discomfort, etc.I was on 5 medications at one point. With acupuncture and other interventions such as walking , talking, and gardening I am now on 3 medications only. I am looking forward to taper off another medication in the near future. I believe adding acupuncture to my treatment plan has made a significant difference.Mark is very kind and has excellent bed manners. The first time I came in I was shaking of fear. He’s always made me feel comfortable and never rushes.He’s attentive to the bed temperature, heat lamps and even volume of the relaxing music.Monique is wonderful too. If acupuncture is something you want to try, five points is the place to go.Be patient and kind with yourself.
Rachel S.
I have been suffering from tension headaches/migraines for over 10+ years. When I found out I was pregnant I didn’t realize how dependent I was on Aleve/Advil to get me through a day, week, or month. Not being able to take my migraine medication or aleve I was desperate to find alternative medicines to help relieve my tension. I have noticed incredible results from 5 point acupuncture. My tension has decreased tremendously and I have not experienced a migraine in months. This is definitely something I will keep doing even after the baby is born. I highly recommend 5 points acupuncture for anyone!
Nancy A.
Let me start by saying Mark is very friendly and professional! I have been seeing Mark for neck pain and balance issues due to an inner ear problem. I have been suffering with this for the last two years. I began seeing Mark 2 months ago after being referred to him by a family member.I have seen a great improvement in my balance as well as the neck pain! Before seeing Mark I felt discouraged that nothing was going to help me. I was wrong!Thank you Mark for helping me!
Sarah M.
I visited Mark at his clinic for some chronic neck pain and a sore ankle. Happy to report that the results have been amazing. Mark was always professional and explained the treatment to me when I had questions. I highly recommend Five Points Acupuncture and Mark Whalen!
Holly W.
I consider myself a 5 points success story. I saw Mark for approximately 6-8 weeks for a plantar fascia tear and stress fracture. Our goal was to get me running again and I ran 5 miles this morning. Mark took copious notes and worked with me on the best course of treatment for me.
Martha P.
I am so sad! I finally found someone that could address my complaints and I am moving out of the area (of note, this is the 4th acupuncturist I have been to). Mark has been able to do what my PCP could not (nothing against my PCP- she is a gem!). I was prescribed hormones (which I was not thrilled about but it is the Western medicine approach) to no avail but once I started seeing Mark, I actually saw more results than medications alone (and stopped the medications with no decrease in results).I also had a joint injury and I could limp into his office in pain and leave feeling normal. But, in all honesty, the relief did not last after one session, it took awhile, but I am now feeling great! Mark listened, adjusted therapy, tried several alternative approaches and, in the end, it worked!Due to COVID, there were no tongue exams, so I sent pics. Because of this, I was able to compare before, during and after and I actually saw the results first hand (which was very cool).His multi therapy approach (for me: acupuncture, light modalities, herbs and e-stim) are result oriented and I can certainly attest to that! Reading other reviews I see he has a lot of other tricks up his sleeve and obviously knows what he is doing.I will end this by saying that his enthusiasm for his practice (which shows in every way), his compassion and his dedication are all greatly appreciated. Thanks Mark!
Carla S.
I’ve been seeing Mark for post Covid symptoms of severe joint pain, inflammation, brain fog, all over body pains, digestive issues, the loss of smell and taste, low energy, and depression. Covid brought on all these symptoms that I was dealing with since December of 2020. I have seen Mark for 6 weeks, twice a week, with tea’s, foot soaks, and oral herbal supplements for all the symptoms mentioned above, and he completely resolved all my symptoms.A side note, I’ve been seeing Mark on and off since 2006 and he’s the only acupuncturist that can heal me. He listens to my issues and complaints and takes everything into consideration to treat me. I can’t thank Mark enough for giving me my health back, nothing I did on my own worked, and traditional western medicine didn’t help at all (it actually made me worse).I will continue to see mark to maintain my health and address some other issues that I need help with. I would highly recommend Mark, he’s an amazing healer, he has a great office space that’s inviting, and friendly staff.
Barbara F.
I started seeing Mark twice a week for my sinus pressure and shoulder pain over the past two months. Mark is very knowledgeable and has dramatically reduced the pain in both areas. I am so thankful for his care. I highly recommend him.
Jeffrey L.
I decided to go to acupuncture for constant tension in my legs that has been ongoing for a few years. Mark has reduced it about 80% so far. Would highly recommend acupuncture and Mark. Very happy, grateful and satisfied.
Lindsey A
Cannot say enough about Mark and his practice. Was very thorough and focused. Helped me through IVF treatments and then my pregnancy. So grateful to have him a part of my journey!
Beverly E.
Mark is a miracle worker. I’ve been seeing him for back, hip and leg pain that has been an ongoing issue for over seven months now with no relief. I tried everything, medication, physical therapy, and daily exercises. I could not sleep or sit long due to the pain. I started acupuncture at Five Points Acupuncture & Wellness with Mark only a short time ago and my pain is almost nonexistent now. Before going to acupuncture I was struggling with chronic pain and losing sleep. I thought that I would never be able to sleep more than a few hours again. I am so glad that I started seeing Mark. I highly suggest going to see him.
Kristen G.
Very happy with my experience with Mark at Five Points Acupuncture. I started seeing him when I was about 26 weeks pregnant and suffering severe sciatic pain in my ride side. He was able to reduce that pain significantly and make me more comfortable throughout my pregnancy. Would definitely recommend him and his practice to anyone looking to explore acupuncture!
Andrea C.
I am so fortunate to have found Mark and Five Points Acupuncture & Wellness. I had plantar fasciitis in both feet for over a year and nothing was working. I had a surgery scheduled but decided to try acupuncture in the mean time. Acupuncture has worked wonders. I have no pain in the foot that was to be operated on and with weekly treatment, my other foot is almost completely healed. I highly recommend contacting Mark. He is wonderful!
Andrea G.
I started seeing Mark at Five Points Acupuncture after a miscarriage with my first round of IVF. After reading about the benefits of acupuncture in helping to sustain pregnancy, I started prior to my second IVF cycle and I am now in my second trimester. I have enjoyed so many benefits from Mark’s treatment...I had an easy first trimester with no almost symptoms and I think working with Mark has contributed a lot to my continued wellness. An added bonus is that the sessions are relaxing and have decreased my stress levels. Mark is very knowledgeable about pregnancy/IVF and also easy to work with, as he’s been really accommodating whenever I need a last minute schedule change. I would highly recommend seeing Mark if you’re interested in the benefits of acupuncture.
Michael R.
I had a lingering elbow injury ( months ) which would not respond to anything. My friend and my sister in law are both patients of Mark and recommended him. He fixed the pain and discomfort quickly and has gotten me back to working out! Great results.
Maura H.
I am extremely happy with my experience at Five Points Accupuncture and Wellness. For years I have dealt with digestive issues and have seen multiple doctors, but have never found a medicine or treatment that worked. Ever since my first week of accupuncture here, I have had no symptoms at all. My experience has been better than I ever could’ve expected. The office is very clean, very comfortable and I find each visit to be very relaxing. I would certainly recommend.
taylor H.
Mark is absolutely amazing! I’ve been seeing him for back and sciatica pain that has been an ongoing issue for over a year now with no relief. I tried everything.. medication, physical therapy, daily stretching, foam rolling. I was even scheduled for an SI injection that I canceled because the acupuncture is working so well. I have only been going to see Mark for a short time and my pain is almost nonexistent now. Before going to acupuncture I was struggling with chronic pain and losing hope I would ever feel good again, so glad that I started seeing Mark! Highly, highly suggest going to see him!
George S.
I had my knee replaced last Veterans day 11-11-2019 and had the worst year of my life. I had complications which prevented me from bending and straightening my leg. My bending was at 82 degrees and my straightening was at -20 degrees. I dealt with this the whole year; my job is labor intense so my left hip and left knee took a beating all year, to the point that I had my left side X-rayed because of the pain I was in. I made an appointment to have my replacement knee come out and redone by another doctor. That surgery was suppose to happen on December 8th. I really was dreading going through another surgery but knew I had to because of my limited mobility. I was told about Acupuncture and thought there is no way that works and said to myself, "Yeah, some guy is going to stick needles in and the pain will go away." Well I tried 2 things last resort 4 weeks a go. Smoking Marijuana late at night and Acupuncture. I never like Marijuana because it would just make me sleepy, but heard it could reduce inflammation. Then I was referred to Mark from a friend of mine. After the third visit I was like a little kid and called my Physical therapist to see if he could measure my knee again. When I walked in to his office he was shocked as I was. My bending was at 97 degrees and my straightening was at -6 without him trying to get better numbers, that was just me doing on my own. He could not believe it. Those were going to be the numbers that I was told that I might get after surgery. I haven't gone back again to see if the numbers have gotten any better but I can tell they have. My knee is as straight as my left one but the bending is still off. I was told if it gets to 105 degrees I will be able to ride a bike. I'm not that far off. The bottom line is Mark has changed my life for the better. No more pain. Those of you who live with pain know how it effects everyone around you. Can't thank Mark enough, he is passionate about getting results which makes me feel even better.
Kristin M.
Suffering from TMJ, headaches and jaw pain is not fun. After trying many different treatment options, I decided to check out acupuncture and it has been life changing! My symptoms have diminished and my pain level is way down. Not only did acupuncture help relieve my TMJ symptoms, headaches and jaw pain, but it also helped to make me feel more relaxed!Mark is professional, knowledgeable and helpful. He really listens to his patients to find out how he can help and his office is clean and welcoming. I have recommended Five Points Acupuncture to several friends and they have all been very happy with their experiences. I would definitely recommend Mark and Five Points Acupuncture & Wellness for many different health ailments.
Tricia C.
I sought treatment from Mark as I embarked on a quest for overall health & wellness following a diagnosis of Chronic leukemia, and had always been intrigued by acupuncture. I never expected to have such an immediate improvement in conditions I’d suffered with for years. In just a few weeks the plantar fasciitis I’ve battled for over a year is greatly improved! I recently walked a 10 mile fundraiser with NO residual pain...unheard of for me! I’m also feeling much less stressed and suffering far fewer headaches. The benefits of my treatment with Mark have far exceeded my expectations. I look forward to seeing how much my overall health will improve and how the benefits of acupuncture will help me stay strong and healthy!
Rhenise C.
I saw Mark at Five Points Acupuncture initially to help with fertility issues after having 2 miscarriages and then during my pregnancy. His treatment is focused on your individual issues and his knowledge of fertility issues and maintaining a healthy pregnancy is fantastic. I credit the acupuncture and marks treatment program to having a relatively easy and successful pregnancy and now have a healthy, happy baby girl!
Amanda L.
I really enjoyed going to Five Point Acupuncture. I came in with severe neck pain (8/9 out of 10 pain) and after about a month of going to acupuncture twice a week, I felt so much better (3 out of 10 pain.) If I did not have to move, I would have continued to see Mark for a little longer. Two appointments before the move Mark and I concentrated my acupuncture appointments on anxiety, stress, and sleep instead of pain. I still have neck pain, but it is not nearly as severe as it was before I started going. I am certain if given the proper amount of time at his clinic I would feel even better. For now, the pain is more manageable and, as Mark taught me, that is part of the goal for now! He really listens and works to make you feel better and is adamant about not having his patients come back forever. He wants to fix your ailments and have you back to living a comfortable life.In addition to traditional acupuncture Mark used cupping to help with muscle soreness, infrared light therapy for pain and inflammation and electrotherapy on the acupuncture needles. He mentioned that during the pandemic he isn't offering all of his techniques/practices but I do know he is willing to talk through what he does have to offer you during "these times" and will send you home with "homework" such as breathing exercises and/or supplements.I must admit I was a little unsure of going to acupuncture during a pandemic due to the safety of myself and others, but I was at a point where I could not bear the pain any longer. Mark has certain practices in place that make you feel safe and comfortable, especially during the pandemic. He implements mask wearing, spaces appointments out to make sure people aren’t in the main office at the same time, has you wait in your car and call ahead to make sure you are alone in the waiting room, asks questions about COVID exposure and whether or not you feel sick, takes your temperature, leaves a window propped open and has air purifiers in each room, cleans and sanitizers after each patient, and swaps out sheets from each bed after each patient.The only thing I wish was different was the price. Compared to community acupuncture (which does not have private rooms) it was more expensive. Because acupuncture is more effective if you go often, each appointment adds up very quickly. BUT I understand there were a lot of safety protocols in place and that it takes a little more time and effort to maintain each room.Thank you for all your help! I hope other folks have as much luck as I did.
Nick T.
I'm so glad I found Mark and his practice. This past winter I suffered a soft tissue injury in my heel. I walked with a cane for three months in the spring and the medical help I received from my health insurance was not helping. Six months into my recovery I still was having trouble walking. Luckily my partner recommended acupuncture. I was definitely skeptical, but after my first session I knew it was a good decision.Mark's office is incredibly clean. It's quiet, there are noise machines and soothing music, and only one person is allowed in at any time. Mark takes extra precautions to keep you safe and is always masked with gloves and a lab coat. Of all of the places I've visited in the COVID era Mark's is by far the cleanest. I always felt safe there.Beyond that, the treatment I received really worked! I went for six weeks, twice a week. Mark put needles in my foot and hand and explained how he was working with certain pressure points. He used electricity hooked up to the needles to provide a (very) gentle current through my foot at times, which felt like a very small vibration. After two weeks I was walking on my heel much better than I had previously and by the time I was done the pain had vanished! I'm by no means saying that this was a miracle cure but it was certainly a great addition to my recovery and not only helped with the pain but helped me with my confidence as well. I'm grateful I found his practice and tried acupuncture for the first time. I looked forward to going to his office and taking that time to relax, reflect, and heal my body and mind.I would absolutely recommend Mark to anyone seeking acupuncture to treat an injury that won't go away. I was skeptical at first but I now I wouldn't hesitate to go back if I develop other problems in the future. He has an introductory discount for the first four sessions too! I'll say it again: check this place out if you have a stubborn injury! He will listen to you and do his best to help.
Kindyll D.
Reason for Acupuncture: Knee PainMy story:For the past 6 months I was suffering from knee pain/instability. I had severe swelling on the outside of my knee and it felt like my knee was going to give out in random situations (walking, running, lateral movement). I had to stop playing basketball, tennis and even short distance running became painful and would limit my normal daily activity.I went to my doctor, had an MRI where they found no tears and no damage outside of some arthritis, which was normal for my age and past athletic history. I received a cortisone shot/drainage of knee, it didn't work and my doctor was shocked. The doctor then suggested she go in my knee, "to drill holes in the bone for blood flow". I didn't think this decision was thought out or in my best interest, so I respectfully declined:)I was very frustrated, because I had no answers and I couldn't do the things I love to do (basketball/tennis etc.). I decided to try acupuncture and I am SO grateful I did! After my first session I found relief in my knee for the first time in years (especially past 6 months). It's like my knee was protecting itself and was finally taken out of its "fight or flight" protective mode.I have had 7 sessions so far and I have been able to return to tennis with no hesitation and I'm moving better than I have in years. My swelling is much less than in the past and I haven't had the feeling of my knee giving out since before my first session. Due to COVID, I haven't played basketball, but I am very optimistic that I can play again.Mark is very knowledgeable, attentive and focuses not only on the area of pain, but every area it connects to (my IT band, hips, feet etc.). I highly recommend him if you are experiencing any pain!
Alyson R.
I started seeing Mark in November 2019 while my husband and I were trying to get pregnant. We had had a miscarriage over the summer and I figured it wouldn't hurt to try anything that might help us get pregnant again quickly/to help us have a healthy pregnancy. I had never done acupuncture before and really wasn't quite sure what to expect, but Mark was very thorough and professional while also being very compassionate. If you're a first timer and a little nervous like me, it also doesn't hurt at all and I found it really quite relaxing to be there. Fast forward to May 2020, we are halfway through our pregnancy with a healthy little girl! I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone looking for help with fertility.
Steve B.
My skepticism of acupuncture had me thinking it was not for me but I was desperate and decided to give it a try. Mark at Five Points took the time to research all my particulars and explained his approach. His application of acupuncture was explained at each step, professional in nature and in the end took care of my symptoms. I’d definitely go again if needed.
Becky C.
Mark is very professional- kind, respectful, attentive, and always goes the extra mile to make sure he listens and treats as needed. I’ve had morning migraines for years and since starting accupuncture I have noticed great relief! The office is also clean and very relaxing. I highly recommend five points accupuncture!
Kasey L.
Mark is professional, warm and welcoming. From the initial consult to the treatment plan Mark was sure to create a plan to meet my needs. I found acupuncture to be very helpful and believe Mark’s knowledge and willingness to tailor each session was essential. It has always been easy to contact his office to reschedule if need be and I have found him very responsive. I would recommend this practice without hesitation to anyone seeking acupuncture treatment.
Alysia M. R.
I started going to see Mark at the very beginning of my pregnancy. He was so helpful, attentive and knowledgeable. My first trimester went by very quickly and I was fortunate to have minimal symptoms and I truly believe the acupuncture was a contributing factor. I suffer from migraines and once I was through my first trimester, the treatments helped to keep them at bay. Further, Mark & Lena (sp) were always very helpful whenever I needed to re-schedule an appointment. I would strongly recommend their office to anyone seeking this kind of therapy, for any reason.
Watch this short video to find out the Top 5 Reasons you should be getting acupuncture to improve your health. (turn your sound on)
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Our Treatments
Five Points Acupuncture offers state-of-the-art natural treatments designed to help you achieve your body’s optimal health.
Acupuncture is a proven medical treatment that positively influences how the body functions by accessing the body’s own internal healing mechanisms. Acupuncture uses very thin needles that don’t hurt. Learn More
As experts in Chinese Herbal Medicine, we can customize herbal solutions to your particular issues. Learn More
Herbal foot soaks deliver many benefits to the body, including improved blood flow and nutrient delivery to injured parts of the body. Learn More.
Cupping and Gua Sha are painless, traditional Chinese remedies for chronic or acute muscle tension, headaches and migraines. Learn More.
“I am better able to deal with stress, my sleep quality has improved and Mark has been able to help me with a number of issues from allergies to digestion.”
Amoreena, Wakefield, MA , Sleep Problems, Digestion
“After many years of suffering with digestive issues, I found permanent relief via the acupuncture treatment Mark provides. Through treatment sessions and Chinese herbs, I am regular and do not suffer from gas and bloating. I also have more energy.”
Jennifer, Digestion, Sleep, PMS
“After a few acupuncture sessions I saw signs of change in my sleep and headaches. I am sleeping much better and for my headaches, I have not had an aspirin/Tylenol for 5 months as I write this.”
Michelle Reading, MA, Sleep Problems
“I cannot say enough good things about Mark and how professional he is. There is a gentleness about him that complements his knowledge of acupuncture and truly makes his techniques effective … If you are going through IVF, I highly recommend that you see Mark.”
Paula, Infertility, IVF
“I first started acupuncture with Mark to help heal a heel spur and the resulting plantar fasciitis. From the first session Mark was extremely easy to work with. Thanks to Mark, I am back on the streets jogging and improving the pain I experience week to week.”
Adam, Heel Spurs, Plantar Fasciitis
“I was recommended to see Mark Whalen at Five Points Acupuncture and Wellness by a loyal friend. I had a sharp pain in my lower back which made it difficult to walk. After five appointments with Mark, I am pain-free and walking fine.”
Thomas, Back Pain