Acupuncture originated in traditional Chinese medicine, which involves the insertion of thin, solid, metallic needles into the skin. The needles are then activated through gentle and precise movements of the practitioner’s hands or by employing electrical stimulation at specific, traditionally identified points of the body.
Despite being quite popular, acupuncture has given rise to many mixed thoughts among people. While some believe acupuncture is the perfect way to needle your worries away; some think it is just a myth. Happiest Health speaks with a few experts who offer their insights on this practice.
Myth 1: Acupuncture is painful
People who take acupuncture to ease their health problems often describe the needle sensation as aching, tingling, numbing, or a sense of something moving or spreading beneath the skin. As with massage, some techniques will be relatively light or relaxing, and others strong. Jamie Bacharach, licensed medical acupuncturist and head of practice at Acupuncture, Jerusalem, says, “While the concept of acupuncture may sound painful, several factors contribute towards this not being the case.” Acupuncture needles are extremely thin, hence those undergoing it might experience sensations such as a mild tingling, warmth, or dull ache. The acupuncturist also needs to have the skill and expertise to ensure a painless needle experience.
New York-based, Tsao-Lin Moy, who practises acupuncture and Chinese medicine, says, “The sensation felt with acupuncture is called de qi, also known as the arrival of qi.” Traditional Chinese medicine describes qi as the vital life force that balances a person’s all-round wellness.
Siddiqa Shariff, 39, of Bengaluru, says, “I got acupuncture done two years ago for my chronic back pain.” Her mother-in-law had recommended it to her. “I had my own preconceived notions that it might be painful or may have any side effects.” She felt uncomfortable and scared in the beginning; however, with time she says that she felt better.
Bacharach explains, “People have varying pain thresholds, so what may be uncomfortable for one person could be painless for another.”
Moy/ Tsao-Lin concurs: “It is important to have good communication about de qi tolerance and what is appropriate according to the patient’s pain tolerance,”
Myth 2: Acupuncture is a placebo
Placebos are substances or actions that resemble drugs, devices or medical treatments. But they do not provide any therapeutic effect. Their effectiveness stems from the ability to trigger the body’s natural mechanisms for promoting well-being.
The brain generates numerous substances that can alleviate pain, stress and anxiety, and mitigate other unpleasant sensations. The placebo effect tricks the brain into feeling better.
Acupuncture involves specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points. The points have been mapped out over centuries of practice and correspond to specific physiological and anatomical features. “Placebo treatments usually lack the specificity associated with acupuncture points,” says Bacharach.
A 2022 study published in the National Library of Medicine by researcher Dr Andrew J Vickers revealed that acupuncture provided statistically significant improvements for various conditions like back and neck pain, osteoarthritis and chronic headache compared to placebo treatment. “Acupuncture has been found to induce the release of endorphins (natural pain-relieving chemicals), modulation of neurotransmitters and changes in blood flow,” he says.
Myth 4: It is traditional Chinese medicine
Acupuncture is often associated with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) because it originated in ancient China and has been an integral part of TCM for thousands of years. “However, it is important to note that it has evolved and is now practised in various forms and contexts beyond TCM,” says Bacharach.
Myth 5: Works only for pain relief
While acupuncture is well known for its effectiveness in pain management, it is not limited to it, but is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach for various health conditions. “Acupuncture is effective for treating pain conditions even in cancer,” says Moy.
A 2014 study published in the National Library of Medicine by Dr Kulthida Rithirangsriroj revealed that acupuncture helps in cases of post-chemotherapy nausea and vomiting.
Bacharach adds, “It also helps in post-operative nausea and vomiting, allergic rhinitis, depression, insomnia, and infertility.”
“It has been shown to be effective in the treatment of PTSD [post-traumatic stress disorder] and addiction,” says Moy.
While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and extent of acupuncture’s effectiveness for these and other conditions. Existing evidence suggests that acupuncture does have a broader therapeutic potential than commonly believed.
Myth 6: Acupuncture can be harmful
Any therapy can be unsafe and do harm especially if it is done by someone without training or experience. “It is important that the practitioner is a licensed acupuncturist with at least 3,000 hours of training,” says Moy. “It is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and trained practitioner,” adds Bacharach.
Shariff of Bengaluru says, “I got acupuncture from two practitioners. My first experience was far better than the second as I started getting tremors.” According to her, the experience also depends on the kind of place where the procedure is done.
Myth 7: Clash with other medical treatments
Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments. It can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medication, physical therapy or other therapies. It is generally considered safe to use along with other treatments as it works on different aspects of health and well-being.
“However, it is important for acupuncturists to collaborate with other healthcare providers,” says Bacharach. Such collaboration can prevent conflicts between acupuncture and other medical treatments. The goal of the overall treatment is to heal and support the person undergoing the therapies.
