If you don’t know much about acupuncture, you may have some hesitancy and questions about the process. The idea of needles placed into your skin can understandably appear invasive and potentially dangerous. However, acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been practiced for centuries. Licensed acupuncturists are well trained and experienced, making the process as safe and painless as possible.
The Many Uses of Acupuncture
Acupuncture refers to treating physiological and emotional ailments by inserting very thin needles into specific areas of the body. It’s a traditional Chinese medicine that has been practiced for centuries to treat pain, stress, and overall health. Originally, acupuncture techniques were used to balance the flow of Chi (Qi), traditionally believed to be the body’s life force. Western medicine practitioners use acupuncture to stimulate the muscles, nerves, and connective tissues; this results in the body activating natural painkillers, decreasing pain and discomfort.
Potential Benefits
Acupuncture has been used to treat chronic pain and illnesses for centuries. Today, Western practitioners continue to research its potential benefits. The World Health Organization has attributed acupuncture to the improvement of the following conditions:
- Fluctuating blood pressure
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Nausea related to chemotherapy
- Chronic pain associated with cancer
- Menstrual cramps
- Various sports injuries
- Gastrointestinal pain
- Morning sickness
- Sprains and muscle strains
- General chronic pain
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Risks
It should be emphasized that acupuncture is usually very safe. In the rare case that acupuncture results in dangerous side effects, it’s usually because of irresponsible malpractice or very specific underlying conditions that inherently increase risk.
To avoid dangerous malpractice or severe side effects, always do your research before seeing an acupuncturist. Also, if you live with an underlying condition, find out if acupuncture may contribute to dangerous side effects. Rare risks of acupuncture include the following:
- The patient is taking blood thinners or lives with a bleeding disorder
- The acupuncturist uses unsterilized needles, resulting in infection
- The patient is pregnant (i.e., acupuncture has been proven to help with labor pains, but receiving acupuncture early on may invoke a premature delivery)
- A needle breaks, causing damage to the patient’s internal organs
- A needle is inserted too deeply, resulting in a collapsed lung
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Safety
Once again, it should be noted that the previously stated risks are extremely rare and can be avoided with research and a reputable acupuncturist. Otherwise, acupuncture is usually very safe. To find a licensed acupuncturist, visit the website of the National Certification Commission in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). A reputable, licensed acupuncturist will always use nontoxic, sterile, and one-use-only needles. Feel free to read patient reviews and receive second opinions for other practitioners who may know your chosen acupuncturist.
Weymouth Acupuncture
At Weymouth Chiropractic and Wellness Center, we aim to provide the best possible care for our patients. Our licensed, in-house acupuncturists are happy to address any concerns you have, and we aim to be the premier provider of acupuncture on the South Shore. Our acupuncturists are also experienced in non-insertive acupuncture techniques if you’re still hesitant about the process.
Contact us today to learn more about Weymouth acupuncture services!