Acupuncture treatment is a practice that involves inserting needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote wellness. It’s used for a variety of health problems, such as neck pain, lower back pain, tennis elbow, and menstrual cramps. Acupuncture may also be helpful in relieving anxiety and depression. It is usually done by a trained, licensed practitioner. Some insurance companies cover acupuncture treatments.
Many people are curious about acupuncture and want to know more about it. Some are skeptical about its benefits and wonder whether it’s just a placebo. But research shows that acupuncture works for many different conditions, and some people experience substantial improvement with just one treatment. The results can last for a long time. And acupuncture often works well with other medical treatments, such as pain medications or cancer drug therapies.
Some studies suggest that acupuncture can improve immune system function and help the body control inflammation. And other research suggests that acupuncture may change how the brain and nervous system respond to pain. Some studies also suggest that acupuncture can help manage nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy and other cancer drugs.
During an acupuncture session, you lie down on a padded table and the practitioner inserts several hair-thin needles into strategic locations. The needles don’t hurt, and they stay in place for about 20 minutes. Sometimes a practitioner will use heat or electrical stimulation along with the acupuncture therapy.
You can find a practitioner by asking your regular doctor for a recommendation or searching online for practitioners in your area. You should look for a licensed acupuncturist who has met state and national training and licensing standards. You can find out more about a practitioner’s background by looking for membership in a professional organization, such as the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Acupuncture can have serious side effects if it’s done by an untrained person or if nonsterile, single-use needles are used. These risks include infections, organ puncture and central nervous system injuries. But if you choose a reputable acupuncturist and stick to the recommended number of sessions, it’s safe for most people.
This PDQ cancer information summary is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis and 針治療 of a medical or health condition.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting needles into specific points in the body to relieve pain and promote wellness. Some research supports the effectiveness of acupuncture for some conditions, including low back pain, tension headaches, and menstrual cramps. Other research is needed to confirm these findings and determine how acupuncture might work for other conditions.
Acupuncture should not be used as a replacement for conventional medical care. If you have a serious illness or chronic pain, talk to your doctor before trying acupuncture. This PDQ cancer information summary was reviewed and updated in October 2016.
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