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August 23, 2024

Debunking 10 Common Acupuncture Myths

By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist

TOPICS IN THE POST

  • Acupuncture

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Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers much more than meets the eye. Rooted in the belief that balanced Qi flow is essential for mental, physical, and emotional health, TCM promotes overall well-being. Acupuncture, a key TCM therapy with a history spanning approximately 2,000 years, has gained popularity for its ability to restore Qi flow, improve health, and provide rapid pain relief. This practice involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote natural healing.

Acupuncture addresses various conditions, including chronic pain, digestive issues like gastritis, sleep disorders such as insomnia, and emotional challenges like anxiety. It is also known to improve immune function, reduce stress, and enhance overall vitality. Often integrated into holistic health plans, acupuncture supports patients in achieving a balanced and harmonious state of being.

Despite its effectiveness, numerous myths about acupuncture persist, causing hesitation. By debunking these myths, we aim to clarify acupuncture’s benefits and encourage more individuals to consider it a viable and well-founded treatment option.

Myth 1: Acupuncture is painful

  • Common misconception: Acupuncture is painful because it involves needles.

 

  • Reality: Very thin needles are used in acupuncture, and you usually only feel a slight prick and tingling. Most people feel at ease during a session, as any soreness and pressure are relieved once Qi flow is established, usually shortly after needle insertion. The needles are much thinner than those used for injections or blood draws, reducing discomfort significantly.

 

  • Note: If you experience pain or discomfort, inform your TCM practitioner immediately. They can adjust the needle placement or technique to ensure a comfortable experience.

Myth 2: Acupuncture is the same as dry needling

  • Common misconception: Acupuncture and dry needling are the same therapies.

 

  • Reality: Although both involve needle insertion, they are fundamentally different. Acupuncture is based on TCM principles and aims to stimulate acupoints on meridians to promote overall health and balance Qi flow. In contrast, dry needling targets specific trigger points in muscles to relieve muscle tension and pain.

 

  • Advice: Choose acupuncture for a holistic approach to treating a wide range of conditions, and seek dry needling for focussed muscle-related issues.

Myth 3: Acupuncture is only effective in treating pain

  • Common misconception: Acupuncture is solely for pain relief.

 

  • Reality: Acupuncture is a versatile treatment with a wide range of benefits. It can boost fertility, improve insomnia, alleviate depression and anxiety, and aid in weight loss. It is also effective for treating digestive issues, respiratory problems, and even some dermatological conditions. The holistic approach of acupuncture addresses the root causes of various health issues, promoting overall wellness.

 

  • Advice: Consult your TCM practitioner to see if acupuncture is right for your specific condition. They can provide a tailored treatment plan that addresses your unique health needs.

Myth 4: Acupuncture has bad side effects

  • Common misconception: Acupuncture is accompanied by bad side effects.

 

  • Reality: Unlike taking medications or undergoing invasive medical procedures, acupuncture promotes the body’s natural healing ability and is generally safe with minimal and short-term side effects. Some common, mild side effects include slight soreness, light bruising, or minor bleeding at the needle insertion sites. These side effects usually resolve on their own within a few hours or days.

 

  • Note: Severe side effects are rare, especially when treatment is performed by a licensed and experienced acupuncturist. Always ensure your practitioner follows proper hygiene and safety protocols.

Myth 5: One session of acupuncture is sufficient

  • Common misconception: One session of acupuncture is enough to cure ailments.

 

  • Reality: While you may experience benefits after just one session, consistency is key for optimal and longer-lasting results. Acupuncture works cumulatively, and regular sessions are often necessary to achieve significant improvements. The number of sessions needed varies depending on the condition being treated, its severity, and your overall health.

 

  • Advice: Your TCM practitioner will advise on the frequency and duration of treatments based on your unique needs. It is advisable to follow their recommendations and maintain regular sessions to achieve your health goals.

Myth 6: Acupuncture is not backed by science

  • Common misconception: Acupuncture is an ancient folk practice not supported by scientific evidence.

 

  • Reality: Significant research and studies have shown that acupuncture can be effective for various conditions. The positive effects are believed to result from the physiological changes induced by needle insertion, such as increased blood flow, reduced inflammation, and the release of endorphins and other natural painkillers.

 

  • Note: Ongoing research continues to explore and validate the benefits of acupuncture for various health conditions.

Myth 7: Acupuncture is only for adults

  • Common misconception: Acupuncture is not suitable for children.

 

  • Reality: Paediatric acupuncture is available and can be effective for treating various conditions in children, such as ADHD, asthma, and colic. The needles used for children are often smaller and inserted more shallowly to ensure comfort.

 

  • Advice: Always consult a licensed paediatric acupuncturist experienced in treating children to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Myth 8: Acupuncture has no place in modern medicine

  • Common misconception: Acupuncture is outdated and irrelevant in modern medical practices.

 

  • Reality: Acupuncture is used as a complementary treatment alongside conventional medical treatments or as a primary treatment, depending on the nature of the condition being treated. It improves the effectiveness of treatments for chronic pain, migraines, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and other conditions. Many hospitals and clinics now offer acupuncture as part of their integrative medicine programmes.

 

  • Advice: Discuss with your healthcare provider how acupuncture can complement your existing treatments.

Myth 9: Acupuncture is only beneficial if you believe in it

  • Common misconception: The benefits of acupuncture are purely placebo effects.

 

  • Reality: Research has shown that acupuncture can induce physiological changes in the body, such as increased blood flow, reduced inflammation, and the release of natural painkillers like endorphins. These changes occur regardless of a patient’s belief in the treatment.

 

  • Note: While a positive attitude can enhance any treatment’s effectiveness, the benefits of acupuncture are not solely dependent on belief.

Myth 10: All acupuncturists are the same

  • Common misconception: Any practitioner can perform acupuncture with the same efficacy.

 

  • Reality: The training, experience, and skill of acupuncturists can vary greatly. It is crucial to seek treatment from licensed and experienced practitioners to ensure safety and effectiveness. A well-trained acupuncturist will have a deep understanding of TCM principles and the skill to accurately locate and stimulate acupoints.

 

  • Advice: Verify the credentials and experience of your acupuncturist before starting treatment to ensure you receive the highest quality care.

By debunking these myths, we aim to provide a clearer understanding of acupuncture’s benefits and safety, encouraging more people to consider it a viable treatment option.

Personalised Acupuncture Treatment at Aston Clinic London

At Aston Clinic London, we provide high-quality acupuncture services tailored to your unique health needs. Our experienced and licensed practitioners are well-versed in Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, delivering safe and effective treatments.

Whether seeking relief from chronic pain, managing stress, or exploring holistic health approaches, our team is here to support you.

To book an acupuncture session with one of our practitioners, click here. Alternatively, you can contact us at020 8942 3148 to learn how our acupuncture treatments can benefit you.

Aston Clinic London is a third-generation complementary health clinic located in New Malden, serving Kingston, Norbiton, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Surbiton, Chessington, Worcester Park, Sutton, Richmond, and other areas of southwest London and Surrey.

FEATURED TOPICS

By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist

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References

 

 

  • Asher, G. N., Jonas, D. E., Coeytaux, R. R., Winham, S. J., Motsinger-Reif, A. A., & McDuffie, J. (2010). “Auriculotherapy for pain management: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 16(10), 1097-1108. Available at: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2009.0451

 

TOPICS IN THE POST

  • Acupuncture
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