“The World Health Organization has recognized acupuncture as effective in treating mild to moderate depression.”
Acupuncture is a traditional practice that involves inserting ultra-thin needles into specific points on the body at varying depths. This ancient technique is rooted in the belief of balancing Qi, the body’s vital life force. Qi is thought to flow through pathways, and disruptions in its flow are believed to cause various health problems. By targeting specific points, acupuncture aims to restore harmony and address issues such as pain, stress, and other ailments. Modern interpretations also suggest it may stimulate nerves and improve circulation, contributing to its therapeutic effects. This holistic approach blends tradition with contemporary wellness practices.
This article explores what acupuncture is, how it works, and the potential benefits and risks associated with the practice.
Table of Contents
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into the body to activate sensory nerves in the skin and muscles, which may aid in treating. Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points or acupoints. It is based on the belief that vital energy, or “qi” (pronounced “chee”), flows through the body along channels called meridians. By stimulating these points, acupuncture is believed to restore balance and promote healing, improve the flow of energy, and address various physical, emotional, and mental health issues.
Also Read about: How Can Acupuncture Help in the Areas of Stress Reduction and Weight Loss?
History of Acupuncture
Acupuncture originated in China as a key element of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), based on the concept that vital energy, known as qi, flows through the body along designated pathways called meridians. Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Early acupuncture practices were based on concepts common in TCM, such as the life force energy known as qi. Qi was believed to flow through channels called meridians through the body’s primary organs (zang-fu organs) to the body’s superficial tissues—skin, muscles, tendons, bones, and joints. Acupuncture points, where needles are inserted, are generally (but not always) located along these meridians. Points that are not along a meridian are called extraordinary points, while those with no specific location are referred to as A-shi points. Acupuncture has its roots in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and is now a widely used complementary treatment worldwide.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) explains that health results from a harmonious balance between the complementary extremes of yin and yang, which together form the life force known as Qi (pronounced “chi”). Advocates believe that illness occurs when there is an imbalance of these forces.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Qi flows through meridians, or pathways, in the human body. These meridians and energy flows can be accessed through 361 acupuncture points. Inserting needles into these points in the right combinations helps restore balance to the energy flow.
A 2017 review suggests that many acupuncture points are located at sites where stimulation can influence the activity of multiple sensory neurons. These sites are also referred to as receptive fields. The physical stimulation caused by needle insertion at these sites may influence pain processing in the central nervous system and muscles, while also increasing blood flow to specific areas of the body.
A 2018 meta-analysis of acupuncture’s effect on chronic pain found that the practice can provide pain relief benefits distinct from a placebo. However, the exact mechanism by which acupuncture works remains unclear. Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine primarily used for pain relief, though it is also employed to treat a variety of conditions. It is generally used in combination with other forms of treatment. For instance, the American Society of Anesthesiologists states that acupuncture may be considered for the treatment of nonspecific, noninflammatory low back pain only when used alongside conventional therapy.
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into the skin. A typical session requires lying still while approximately five to twenty needles are inserted. In most cases, the needles are left in place for ten to twenty minutes. Acupuncture may also involve the application of heat, pressure, or laser light. Traditionally, acupuncture is individualized and based on philosophy and intuition rather than scientific research. Additionally, there is a non-invasive therapy developed in early 20th-century Japan, using an elaborate set of instruments other than needles, specifically for the treatment of children (shōnishin or shōnihari).
Benefits of Acupuncture
It is a widely held belief within the acupuncture community that acupuncture points and meridian structures serve as special conduits for electrical signals. However, no research has confirmed a consistent anatomical structure or function for either acupuncture points or meridians. Human studies aimed at determining whether electrical continuity is significantly different near meridians compared to other areas of the body have yielded inconclusive results. Acupuncture is a widely used complementary therapy that can help individuals manage a variety of conditions. The benefits of acupuncture include the following:
People can effectively combine acupuncture with other treatments. Effective acupuncture can help manage chronic pain, migraines, and headaches. Acupuncture has a low risk of side effects. It is a flexible form of treatment that can address multiple health concerns at the same time.
Pain Relief: Acupuncture is effective in reducing chronic pain, including back, neck, and joint pain.
Improved Circulation: It enhances blood flow, promoting better overall health.
Stress Reduction: Acupuncture helps to relax the nervous system and reduce stress levels.
Enhanced Energy Levels: Regular sessions can boost vitality and alleviate fatigue.
Improved Sleep: It promotes relaxation, helping to regulate sleep patterns and improve rest.
Digestive Health: Acupuncture can aid in relieving digestive issues like bloating and constipation.
Boosted Immune System: It strengthens the body’s natural defense mechanisms.
Mental Clarity: Acupuncture can help clear mental fog and improve focus and concentration.
Hormonal Balance: It may support hormone regulation, helping with conditions like PMS and menopause.
Faster Healing: Acupuncture accelerates recovery from injuries and surgeries by promoting tissue repair.
Uses of Acupuncture
The uses of acupuncture range from pain relief and stress reduction to improving sleep and enhancing overall well-being.
Here’s a list of uses of acupuncture:
Pain Relief: Effective for managing chronic pain, such as back pain, headaches, and joint pain.
Stress Reduction: Helps in reducing stress, anxiety, and promoting overall relaxation.
Improving Sleep: Used to treat insomnia and improve sleep quality.
Digestive Disorders: Aids in treating conditions like bloating, constipation, and indigestion.
Boosting Immunity: Enhances the body’s natural immune response, reducing susceptibility to illness.
Enhancing Fertility: Used as a complementary treatment for improving fertility and reproductive health.
Managing Headaches: Helps reduce the frequency and severity of migraines and tension headaches.
Treating Allergies: Alleviates symptoms of seasonal allergies, including nasal congestion and sneezing.
Mental Clarity and Focus: Supports cognitive functions, improving focus, memory, and concentration.
Emotional Wellness: Helps in managing emotional imbalances like anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
Potential Risks of Acupuncture
When not properly administered, acupuncture can cause adverse effects. Accidents and infections may occur due to breaches in sterile technique or negligence by the practitioner. To minimize the risk of serious complications, acupuncturists must receive adequate training. A 2009 Cochrane review found that acupuncture is ineffective for a wide range of conditions. Individuals with serious spinal diseases, such as cancer or infections, are not suitable candidates for acupuncture. Contraindications for acupuncture include coagulopathy disorders (e.g., hemophilia and advanced liver disease), use of warfarin, severe psychiatric conditions (e.g., psychosis), and skin infections or trauma (e.g., burns). Additionally, electroacupuncture should be avoided near implanted electrical devices, such as pacemakers.
Seeking professional guidance is crucial before trying any treatment. While therapies can offer benefits, they also carry potential risks. It’s important to have an open discussion with your healthcare provider to understand the full picture and make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and well-being.
- You may experience some bleeding, bruising, or soreness at the sites where the needles were inserted.
- Infections result from using non-sterilized needles.
- In very rare cases, a needle could break and damage an internal organ.
- Acupuncture needles are treated by the FDA as medical devices and thus must comply with certain requirements. They must be sterile, nontoxic, and properly labeled for use only by a licensed practitioner.
Any alternative therapy should always be used with conventional medical treatment for chronic or serious conditions.
What to Expect in a Session
An acupuncturist will examine a patient and evaluate their condition, insert one or more thin, sterile needles, and provide advice. Patients will generally sit or lie down during the treatment. The acupuncturist should use single-use, disposable, sterile needles. People may feel a very brief stinging or tingling sensation upon needle insertion.
They may then feel a dull ache at the base of the needle. Usually, needles will remain in place for 20–60 minutes, but again, this is dependent on the procedure. Some practitioners heat the needles after inserting them. However, this depends on the individual practice.
Again, the number of treatments needed will depend on the individual’s case. If the person is suffering from a chronic condition, they may be treated once or twice a week for several months. An acute health issue generally improves after 8–12 sessions.
Who should consider acupuncture?
Living with chronic pain or ongoing health issues can be really hard. Some folks find that acupuncture helps them feel better. This ancient practice involves poking tiny needles into specific spots on the body. Acupuncture can help with various pains, like:
- Back pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Knee pain
- Cramps during your period
- Joint pain from arthritis
- Even tennis elbow!
It might also ease other problems like nausea from cancer treatments, dental pain, fibromyalgia, IBS, allergies, incontinence, and asthma.If you’re curious about trying acupuncture, chat with your doctor first to make sure it’s safe for you and to learn about costs. It could be worth a shot!
Acupuncture is a helpful therapy but shouldn’t replace treatments your doctor recommends. If you’re thinking about using acupuncture for chronic pain or other issues, it’s a good idea to talk to your regular doctor first. In some states in the U.S., acupuncturists can even act as primary care doctors themselves! So, always check in with a healthcare professional before trying something new.
Conclusion
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy that uses tiny needles to poke certain spots on your body. This helps get things moving in your nerves and can really help with long-lasting pain, arthritis, headaches, and migraines. It’s pretty safe, with very few side effects. Plus, anyone who does acupuncture needs to have a special license, so you know they’re trained to help!
FAQ
Who Cannot do acupuncture?
Acupuncture may not be suitable for everyone. Before undergoing treatment, consult an experienced acupuncturist if you have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinners, are pregnant, have a pacemaker, metal allergies, or an infection. Approach acupuncture cautiously if you fear needles. Other considerations include skin problems, implants, epilepsy, unclear diagnosis, abnormal physical structure, driving after treatment, and strong reactions. Acupuncture is generally safe when performed by a competent, certified practitioner using sterile needles, but minor side effects like soreness and bleeding may occur.
Is acupuncture permanent or temporary?
Acupuncture can give short-term or long-term relief, depending on your situation. It often takes a few sessions to feel the full effects. If your symptoms don’t get better in a couple weeks, acupuncture may not be the best option for you. The number of treatments you need depends on your condition and how your body reacts.
Does acupuncture really work?
Acupuncture can help with things like pain, nausea, and worry. It works by tapping into nerves under your skin, which makes your body release feel-good chemicals to ease pain. The effects can last a full year after your treatments end. Acupuncture is generally safe, but you may need a few sessions to see results. How many you need depends on what’s going on and how your body reacts.
Which is more effective dry needling or acupuncture?
Whether dry needling or acupuncture works better for you depends on your health condition, your medical history, and your personal preferences. Dry needling is often better for muscle pain and tightness, while acupuncture can treat a wider range of issues like chronic pain and allergies. A doctor can give you the best advice on which one is right for you.
How deep does acupuncture go?
Acupuncture needles go in at different depths, from just a tiny bit under the skin to a couple inches deep. The depth depends on where the needle is being placed and what the treatment is trying to do. For sensitive areas like the face, the needles are usually just a quarter to half an inch deep. For muscles in the back or legs, they can go up to 2 inches deep. Acupuncturists use their experience to figure out the right depth to get the best results.
