Acupuncture : What do I need to Know?
![verified](https://drcure.com/wp-content/themes/drcure/assets/images/verified.webp)
- Acupuncture
- 16 Aug 2023
Overview
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an alternative treatment and an element of age-old Chinese medical practices in which fine needles are placed into the skin. The objective is to ease a medical problem or symptom, such as pain. Its effectiveness for a few illnesses has been supported by scientific research. Some believe it regulates vital energy, whereas others think it has a neurologic effect. In this article, we go through the meaning of acupuncture, its possible ways of action, and the benefits and drawbacks of the treatment.
![Acupuncture is an alternative treatment and an element of age-old Chinese medical practices in which fine needles are placed into the skin.](https://drcure.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/young-woman-getting-acupuncture-treatment-1024x691.jpg)
Theory
How does it work?
There are two theories to explain how it works:
Conventional theory
- The foundation of conventional acupuncture is the idea that the body’s meridians are channels through which an energy or life force known as qi (pronounced “Chee”) circulates.
- Practitioners who practice the traditional method of treatment believe that Qi does not move freely throughout the body whenever there is an obstruction, which can result in disease.
- It aims to heal by releasing the blockage and reestablishing Qi flow.1Theory| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Western theory
- A medical diagnosis is required before acupuncture or dry needling in Western medicine.
- Some people believe that activating sensory neurons beneath the layer of skin and muscles causes the body to produce natural compounds like pain-relieving endorphins.1Theory| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- The positive outcomes associated with acupuncture are probably due to these chemicals produced.
Procedure
How is it performed?
An evaluation of a person’s general health, medical history, and physical examination precedes the acupuncture treatment in the first acupuncture session.
Needles are used in most acupuncture techniques
- Uses disposable stainless-steel needles slightly thicker than an individual’s hair.
- Acupuncture needles are regulated by the FDA under the same single-use sterility standards and reasonable manufacturing procedures as other medical devices.2Procedure| Researched based study from Nccih.nih.gov
- The needles are put into precise spots on the body known to practitioners as acupuncture sites.
- The individual’s health situation and symptoms are considered when selecting acupuncture points.
- Most commonly, acupuncture needles are inserted at acupoints on the foot, hand, wrist, nose, outer ear, scalp, and face.
- The needles can be put superficially to reach the skin or deeply to reach the muscle.
- It is possible for the practitioners can either manipulate the needles, heat them or charge the implanted needles with a small electric current.
Other types of stimulation applied to the acupuncture sites are:
- Acupuncture using lasers.3Procedure| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- Electroacupuncture.
- Trigger-point acupuncture.
- Acupuncture point injections.
- Acupuncture using a microwave.
- Moxibustion (heat)
- Cupping (suction) 4Procedure| Researched based study from Hopkinsmedicine.org
Pre-procedure: What to expect?
Prior to the procedure, a patient will be examined by an acupuncturist to evaluate their health.
- One will be requested to sit or lie down for the session.
- Additionally, one might be asked to remove some of their clothing so the practitioner can access specific areas of their body.
- One or more delicate, sterile needles might be inserted.
- Depending on the procedure, the needles will typically be in place for 20 to 60 minutes.
- A person’s specific condition will determine how many sessions they require.
Does it pain?
- When the needles are implanted, people could feel tingling or a dull aching, but they shouldn’t feel any severe pain.
- They can feel a dull aching at the needle’s base after insertion and throughout the treatment.
- The majority of patients claim to feel refreshed or rejuvenated after the procedure.
- A person should immediately inform their practitioner if they encounter excruciating pain.
Benefits
Health benefits of acupuncture
The following conditions can benefit from acupuncture:
- Low back pain – acupuncture is a complementary medicine that reduces pain. 5Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- Migraine – it is safe, economical, and certainly as effective as pharmacological therapy for migraines.6Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual pain may lessen PMS symptoms, menstrual pain, and general mood.7Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- High blood pressure – since the beginning of time, it has been used to treat hypertension. 8Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- Osteoarthritis – the pain and dysfunction brought on by knee osteoarthritis may be treated with acupuncture as an alternate method.9Benefits| Researched based study from aimc.edu
- Rheumatoid arthritis – although no definite anti-inflammatory effects have been shown, it is safe and may be helpful as a supplement to decrease the severity of tender joints.10Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
- In cancer patients – it has been demonstrated to lessen fatigue related to cancer, dry mouth, lymph node swelling, sleep issues, post-operative discomfort, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and other adverse effects of cancer. 11Benefits| Researched based study from Cancer.gov
- Psychological conditions – like insomnia, 12Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov anxiety, and depression 13Benefits| Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov may benefit from it.
Side effects
What are the side effects of acupuncture?
In general, acupuncture is risk-free when performed by a qualified professional using sterilized needles. However, some adverse effects and problems could include
- Pain at the insertion site.
- Bleeding or bruising.
- Feeling unwell.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Feeling sore during treatment.14Side effects| Researched based study from Mayoclinic.org
- Feeling tired or sleepy.
- Nerve injury.
- Infections from contaminated needles.
- Disease transmission if needles are reused – hepatitis, HIV, etc.
- Sudden convulsion or seizure.15Side effects| Researched based study from Betterhealth.vic.gov.au
Precautions
Precautions one should take before acupuncture sessions
Before undergoing acupuncture therapy, the following considerations should be taken into account:
- Ensure that the practitioner only employs disposable, pre-sterilized needles discarded immediately after use.
- It is safe to use throughout pregnancy, while some acupuncture sites can trigger labor, which might result in early delivery.
- Before receiving acupuncture, anyone with bleeding conditions like hemophilia or those taking anticoagulants should consult their doctor or an acupuncturist.
- For those who have a metal allergy, acupuncture is typically not recommended.
- Acupuncture is not recommended for people with active skin infections or cancer, as there is a risk of cancer cells spreading.
- People who have pacemakers should refuse any electromagnetic stimulation during acupuncture.
- Acupuncture is also not advised for people who have psychosis or delusions.
Outlook
The Bottom line
Acupuncture can cause considerable changes in the nervous system; hence the appropriate points must be stimulated accurately. If one decides to see an acupuncture practitioner, talk to the doctor first and look for a licensed professional with the necessary education and certifications.
Any feedback on this article?
This Articles content was accurate
Very Informative Article
I have a question or a comment
This article contains inaccurate content
This article was not helpful
I have a question or a comment
We appreciate your helpful feedback!
Checkout our social pages
References
-
National Library of Medicine
Acupuncture | Theory
-
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
Acupuncture: What You Need To Know | Procedure
-
National Library of Medicine
Laser Acupuncture: A Concise Review | Procedure
-
John Hopkins Medicine
Acupuncture | Procedure
-
National Library of Medicine
Acupuncture for Low-Back Pain | Benefits
-
National Library of Medicine
The role of acupuncture in the treatment of migraine | Benefits
-
National Library of Medicine
Acupuncture and acupressure for premenstrual syndrome | Benefits
-
National Library of Medicine
Acupuncture for Hypertension Using Traditional Chinese Medicine Concepts | Benefits
-
ACUPUNCTURE & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE COLLEGE
CAN ACUPUNCTURE TREAT PAIN DUE TO ARTHRITIS? | Benefits
-
National Library of Medicine
Acupuncture in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind controlled pilot study | Benefits
-
National Cancer Institute
Acupuncture (PDQ®)–Patient Version | Benefits
-
National Library of Medicine
Acupuncture for Treatment of Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials | Benefits
-
National Library of Medicine
Acupuncture for Treating Anxiety and Depression in Women: A Clinical Systematic Review | Benefits
-
Mayoclinic
Acupuncture | Side effects
-
Better Health Channel
Acupuncture | Side effects