Acupuncture is an ancient technique rooted in traditional Chinese medicine in which a practitioner inserts very fine needles into the skin to treat various health issues. Traditionally, practitioners place the needles at specific points around the body in an effort to realign the balance of energy. In modern Western medicine, practitioners tend to view these acupuncture points as a means to stimulate nerves, muscles, and tissues. Acupuncture is mainly used to help relieve pain, but some research suggests it can help other health problems as well, including seasonal allergies, stress incontinence, and side effects from chemotherapy like nausea and vomiting.
How quickly acupuncture works depends on your health issue, but many people report feeling some benefits after a session or two. Others may see gradual improvement over many treatments.
Are there any risks associated with acupuncture?
You may experience side effects from acupuncture like soreness or minor bleeding or bruising where the needles were placed, but risks associated with the practice are minimal if you see a certified practitioner using sterile needles.
Does acupuncture hurt?
While everyone’s pain threshold is different, you shouldn’t feel significant pain from acupuncture. When the needles are inserted, you may feel tingling or some discomfort but it shouldn’t exceed a dull ache.
Poll
Which have you received: acupuncture or acupressure?
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Grant Chu, MD, is an associate clinical professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dr. Chu is also associate director of inpatient East-West consult services at the ...
Justin Laube, MD, is a board-certified integrative and internal medicine physician, a teacher, and a consultant with extensive expertise in integrative health, medical education, a...
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