Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese branch of medicine that has existed for millennia. In recent years, its powerful benefits have made it a popular and viable treatment modality that is used for various health conditions.
But many myths and misconceptions surround the timeless practice, preventing many people from opting for this form of alternative medicine. Here, we debunk a few common ones to help you separate fact from fiction.
1. Acupuncture is extremely painful.
While acupuncture involves using needles, the needles are very thin and fine. They are the width of a hair strand and much finer than the ones used for injections.
So, when they are inserted, you may feel only a slight prick, pinch, or tingling sensation. But you won’t feel much discomfort or any pain. In fact, many patients feel so relaxed during an acupuncture session that they fall asleep.
Any discomfort you experience will also go away as your therapist adjusts the needles. Some people prefer a lighter touch, so acupuncturists adjust needle sizes to suit their clients’ preferences.
2. Acupuncture can cure any health problem or condition.
Acupuncture can treat a range of medical conditions. But it is not a cure-all, so you must consult your acupuncturist regarding the treatment of your specific condition.
3. Acupuncture is solely effective for pain relief.
Acupuncture is an excellent treatment option for pain relief, including headaches, stomach, back, and knee pain. But it’s also useful for treating other health conditions, such as:
- High blood pressure
- Allergies
- Menstrual cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Morning sickness
- Infertility
- Chemotherapy side effects
- Depression
4. Acupuncture is purely a placebo effect.
Acupuncture is not a placebo effect. Many studies have mapped the neural responses that occur with acupuncture using fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) technology and advanced lab tests. They show that acupuncture modulates neural activity in certain brain areas, stimulates the central nervous system (CNS), and promotes healing.
Hence, acupuncture restores the body’s natural balance to improve health and well-being.
5. Acupuncture is based solely on ancient beliefs and lacks scientific evidence.
Although acupuncture is an ancient practice that goes back thousands of years, much scientific research has been conducted about it. Not all studies are valid, but there is enough scientific evidence to establish its benefits properly.
A study reported that acupuncture is an effective treatment for 117 out of 122 medical conditions across 14 clinical areas. Most importantly, scientists have not found much evidence documenting that acupuncture is harmful and that it is safe when performed by a trained acupuncturist.
6. Acupuncture carries a high risk of infections or other health risks.
Qualified acupuncturists must use the Clean Needle Technique (CNT) for acupuncture sessions to ensure its safety. They must also first pass the CNT exam conducted by the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM). During this test, they must practically demonstrate clean and sterile field techniques before getting their licences and being able to practise.
Just like other treatments, acupuncture also focuses on patients’ health and safety. So, associated health risks are minimal.
7. Acupuncture is unsafe during pregnancy.
Pregnant women can easily opt for acupuncture to address various conditions. Many studies have also looked into the safety of this treatment modality during pregnancy.
A 2015 article said that acupuncture can relieve morning sickness. A 2021 review also stated that it treats severe nausea among pregnant women. Meanwhile, studies in 2017 and 2020 have reported its effectiveness in reducing infertility and boosting the chances of pregnancy.
If you have nagging back pain in the last two trimesters, acupuncture can also treat lower back pain safely and effectively, as per studies in 2018 and 2021. Another 2020 study said that acupuncture can ease and prevent depression during pregnancy.
A 2020 review also reported that acupuncture helps manage labour pain and reduces reliance on epidurals and other medications.
8. Acupuncture is only effective for chronic conditions, not acute ones.
Acupuncture is effective for the treatment of many acute conditions like acute stomach pain and acute bacillary dysentery.
9. Acupuncture is primarily a relaxation technique rather than a medical treatment.
Acupuncture is a form of medical treatment that’s recommended by many health institutions. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) also recognise it as an acceptable treatment for many medical conditions.
Many doctors recommend acupuncture for their patients. Moreover, health insurances provide coverage for different conditions, boosting its validity and acceptability.
10. Acupuncture has long-term negative effects on health.
Acupuncture has a high level of safety when performed by a qualified acupuncturist.
A few people may experience short-term and mild side effects like:
- Pain, bruising, or bleeding where the needles enter the skin
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness or faintness
- Feeling sick
Serious and long-term ill effects of acupuncture, such as infection, haemorrhage, or a collapsed lung are extremely rare.
11. Anyone can perform acupuncture.
Acupuncturists in the United States and many other countries need proper training and certifications to perform acupuncture. In the United States, they must attend at least three years of a graduate school program. These programs usually cover various topics like Asian bodywork, needle technique, acupuncture points, practice management, ethics, nutrition, and Western medicine.
Acupuncture students must also complete hours of acupuncture training so that they can have hands-on learning. Once they complete their program and become certified acupuncturists, they must attend continuing education classes and pass the National Board Licensure Exams to retain their licences and certificates.
The National Health Service (NHS) also recommends that potential acupuncture clients check if the acupuncturist is either a regulated healthcare provider like a doctor, nurse, or physiotherapist or a member of a national acupuncture organisation.
Steve Bailey Acupuncture offers medical acupuncture and CPD dry-needling courses. These courses and our online training will help you improve your skills and clinical knowledge in medical acupuncture, electroacupuncture, myofascial trigger points, dry needling, and more. Under our tutelage, you can become a more successful and confident acupuncturist who can treat your patients with the right techniques.
Final Thoughts
Acupuncture’s many amazing benefits have led it to enjoy international popularity and acceptability. So, if you want to try it and enjoy better health, you can easily find a certified and licensed acupuncturist near you.
You can also enrol in Steve Bailey Acupuncture and become a trained acupuncturist. Visit our website and learn more about our courses.
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