Acupuncture

Acupuncture boasts a rich history documented in archaeological finds, including bamboo Chinese medicine texts dating back approximately 2500 years.

Acupuncture is a component of Chinese Medicine, which is itself a comprehensive medical system comparable to Western Medicine, Allopathic Medicine, or Biomedicine. Chinese Medicine includes therapies like Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, exercise (such as various Chinese martial arts), moxibustion, cupping, Gua Sha, Tui Na (Chinese massage), and others.

1. Medical theory: Acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, while dry needling is based on Western medicine anatomy, including nerves and trigger points.

2. Needles: Originally, dry needling used needles for trigger point injection, known as ‘wet needling’ in the 1940s, before switching to acupuncture needles to achieve similar effects without injection.

3. Treatment principles and locations: Dry needling focuses on pain management and localized treatment. Acupuncture treats a broader range of health conditions, applying not only to symptomatic areas but also to distal areas based on TCM diagnosis, often addressing the root cause of issues.

When the needles first penetrate the skin, you might feel a minor sting, especially in nerve-rich areas like the hands and feet. Otherwise, you might feel nothing. Sensitivity can also vary based on your overall health condition.

Acupuncture may also involve electric acupuncture, cupping, Gua Sha, moxibustion (substituted by infrared heat lamps and mats at AFP), and Tui Na (Chinese massage).

A typical vaccine needle can hold 3-7 acupuncture needles, depending on the gauge of the needles.

Acupuncture is generally safe when performed by a certified practitioner. Possible side effects include:

• Infections: Rare, if standard sanitary practices are followed—comparable to the risk of infection from drawing a blood sample.

• Pneumothorax: A very rare complication due to improper needle depth.

• Minor Bleeding/Bruising: Some individuals may experience slight bruising or bleeding at needle sites.

The response to acupuncture can vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual's reaction. Some may see immediate results, while others may notice gradual improvements after several sessions. Typically, outcomes are re-evaluated after 5-6 visits.