Acupuncture is a centuries-old treatment that uses needles to stimulate specific points in the body in order to relieve pain. Contrary to popular belief, acupuncture does not involve inserting needles into the skin. Rather, needles are inserted into the tissue just above the skin - which is why it is often referred to as "needle-point acupuncture." 

Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of pain disorders, from chronic pain to acute pain. In this post, we will discuss the theory behind acupuncture and how it works to relieve pain.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

The theory of acupuncture and the way it works is through stimulating the central nervous system. By doing so, it releases chemicals into various areas of the body, such as the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. It is believed these chemicals assist the natural healing of the body, promoting both emotional and physical well-being. To stimulate the nervous system, the skin is penetrated by a solid, thin metallic needle in specific trigger spots. Once positioned, the acupuncturist then uses certain gentle movements of their hand or use of electrical stimulation to activate the needles. It is an old traditional Chinese medicine, and it's believed the body has over 2,000 acupuncture points connected through meridians or pathways, creating a flow of energy known as "Qi" (pronounced "chee”) throughout the body that boosts overall health. Various studies have shown the effects of acupuncture can help a range of health conditions. However, it is not suitable for everyone. If you decide you want to try acupuncture, speak with your healthcare provider and locate an acupuncturist that is licensed with proper credentials and training.

Where Are Acupuncture Needles Placed?

Depending on the treatment plan, the number of needles inserted will vary. Some treatments only require two needles, while others use up to 40. It is all about how they will need to direct energy throughout the body to release the proper chemicals to get the desired outcome. 

In most cases, needles are left for 20 to 30 minutes, with most treatments lasting around 20 minutes. However, they can be left longer. The overall time they are left depends on the treatment and how aggressive it needs to be.

What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?

The needles are inserted into specific points using very slight pressure, and this stimulation is thought to activate nerve endings in the skin that correspond to the area that's feeling pain. This allows the brain to send more messages about the pain straight to the brain, which ultimately reduces its intensity. 

Acupuncture is generally safe, and most people find it to be quite helpful in relieving pain. However, some people find acupuncture very painful. Most people report that it doesn't hurt as much as they expected it to. The most common side effects of acupuncture are mild local pain and localized tenderness at the site of insertion.

Soreness after treatment usually lasts less than 24 hours. It is less common than soreness, but bruising could occur. When bruising around the insertion site, it typically goes away within a few days and doesn't hurt. It is simply your body reacting to the trauma of the needle. 

How Long Does It Take for Acupuncture to Work?

Depending on your overall goal, there are two types of results, short-term and long-term pain relief.

Short-Term Pain Relief

If your visit to the acupuncture clinic was for a sports injury, acute pain, or similar situation, it is possible to notice nearly instant pain relief. In some cases, your first treatment can reduce pain considerably.

If you're experiencing chronic pain, it may take up to 3 sessions to begin noticing reduced pain. There are times when the pain may seem to have "moved," but the secondary site of pain was simply masked by the other spot.

If you have not noticed a change in your pain after 4 to 6 sessions (two weeks), acupuncture may not help in your situation.

Long-Term Pain Relief

If you do experience instant pain relief after your first treatment, you will likely want to continue getting regular sessions to maintain long-lasting pain relief. 

How Frequently Should I Get Acupuncture Treatments?

• For acute injuries or pain, daily acupuncture for a span of 3 days minimum is suggested. 

• For chronic pain relief, it is recommended to alternate sessions every other day for 2 or 3 weeks, 

How Long Do Acupuncture Effects Last?

The benefits of acupuncture are often long-lasting, with pain relief lasting several days or more. As the nervous system is stimulated, it helps to calm and soothe the senses, which in turn reduces inflammation and relieves pain. 

Most people find that acupuncture is very effective in relieving pain and promoting general well-being. It is often used as a complementary treatment alongside other treatments like pharmaceuticals and surgery. However, there is no single answer as to how long acupuncture effects will last for everyone. Some people find that it works well for short-term relief, while others experience longer-term benefits that continue even after the initial treatment has ended.

What Are The Side Effects of Acupuncture?

The most common effects of acupuncture are those that everyone is aiming for – increased energy, mental clarity, less stress, and better sleep. However, there are some possible side effects to treatments, including:

• Feeling tired – this is your body saying it is depleted and needs to catch up on rest you may have been lacking.

• Soreness where needles were inserted. Usually goes away within 24 hours.

• Bruising could occur at insertion sites.

• Involuntary muscle spasms or twitching during or after treatment often last only a few seconds. 

• In rare cases, getting lightheaded after acupuncture can cause fainting. This could be caused by getting up too fast or getting treatments done without eating (you should eat before your appointments). Additionally, fainting or lightheadedness often only lasts a matter of seconds and is not cause for concern. However, if it does not go away, you can contact the acupuncturist.

To find out if acupuncture is right for you, schedule your free consultation with our licensed acupunture provider.