Thin needles of extremely high quality are inserted into specific points on the body (acupoints) in order to effect therapeutic effects. Acupuncture’s original function in TCM was to alleviate pain, but it has since expanded to include other applications in the pursuit of health and wellness, such as stress reduction.
This complementary medicine is becoming increasingly popular in the West because of its reputation for restoring harmony to the body’s qi (life force energy). Acupuncturists believe that by inserting needles into specific points along the body’s meridians, they can restore harmony to the body’s energy flow.
In contrast, acupuncture points are seen by western doctors as locations to stimulate muscular, nervous, and connective tissue. So, by stimulating these points, we can increase the body’s natural painkillers and reduce pain.
Distinctions between various needles
Needles come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes to suit any task. Needles for auricular acupuncture, facial acupuncture, and hand acupuncture all have distinct designs on the tip and the handle.
Needles have diameters ranging from 0.12 mm to 0.35 mm and lengths ranging from 7 mm to 100 mm. Silicone coatings, found on most modern needles, make for a less painful prick and better sliding. Acupuncture needles are sterile-packaged in multiple or individual blister packs; each pack will contain at least 5 needles and up to a maximum of 10 needles, and the coating will meet all medical requirements.
Risks
With a trained, licensed acupuncturist, you won’t have to worry too much about getting hurt because of the needles. Minor bleeding, pain, or bruises at the injection sites are among the most frequently reported adverse effects.
All acupuncturists now use single-use needles as the standard procedure. Although the risk of infection is low, people with a history of bleeding disorders or who take blood thinners may be more likely to experience bruises or bleeding as a result of the procedure.
Furthermore, patients who rely on a pacemaker may not be good candidates for acupuncture treatments that involve mild electrical pulses to the needles.
Furthermore, certain acupuncture treatments should be avoided by pregnant women because they can stimulate labor, which can often lead to a premature delivery. As a result, it’s imperative to get ready in advance to guarantee the patient’s health and safety.
Preparing for your Acupuncture Appointment
It is crucial to get recommendations from people you trust, such as friends or even a doctor. Verifying the practitioner’s education and experience is also crucial.
Find out if the treatment will help your condition and how much it will cost during your consultation with a medical professional. Find out if your health insurance policy covers alternative therapies. For dry needling supplies, visit our website to know more.
