18 Common Questions about Acupuncture

18 Common Questions about Acupuncture

Trying anything for the first time can be unnerving—even for the best of us, and acupuncture is certainly no exception. With this in mind, we thought we’d answer 18 of your most common questions about acupuncture.

1. What is acupuncture?
2. How does acupuncture work?
3. What conditions can acupuncture treat?
4. Is acupuncture safe?
5. What should I expect during an acupuncture treatment?
6. How long does an acupuncture treatment last?
7. How many acupuncture sessions will I need?
8. Does acupuncture hurt?
9. Are there any side effects of acupuncture?
10. Can acupuncture be used in conjunction with other medical treatments?
11. How should I prepare for an acupuncture treatment?
12. How do I find a qualified acupuncture practitioner?
13. Is acupuncture covered by health insurance?
14. How long has acupuncture been around?
15. What is the difference between traditional Chinese acupuncture, western acupuncture and dry needling?
16. What is the difference in training between Chinese medicine acupuncturists and dry needling?
17. Is acupuncture safe for children?
18. Are there different forms of acupuncture?

1. What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture has a long history, dating back to ancient China over 2,000 years ago. The earliest written records of acupuncture date back to the second century BCE and are found in the Huang Di Nei Jing Su Wen or Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine—a classical text outlining in detail an organised system of diagnosis and treatment still referenced today. The text is likely to be a compilation of traditions handed down over centuries and is presented in line with the prevailing Taoist philosophy of the time. The concepts of channels or conduits in which qi flowed are said to have been well established by this time. However, the precise anatomical locations of acupuncture points developed later.

The practice of acupuncture is rooted in the concept of qi (pronounced “chee”), a vital energy that flows through the body along channels or conduits. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM, when the flow of qi is disrupted or blocked, it can result in illness or pain. Acupuncture involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body in an attempt to restore the balance and flow of qi in the body and, by doing so, harmonising one’s physical, mental, and emotional health.

Over time, acupuncture has evolved and developed, with new techniques and theories emerging. In the Tang dynasty (618-907 CE), for example, acupuncture became more widespread, and the use of needles became more refined. The Ming dynasty (1368-1644 CE) saw the development of new acupuncture points and techniques, and the practice of acupuncture continued to evolve and develop over the centuries.

Today, acupuncture is practised worldwide and has become increasingly popular as a form of complementary and alternative medicine. While traditional Chinese acupuncture continues to be implemented successfully today, research has also explored the physiological mechanisms behind acupuncture within a modern Western medicine context and its potential benefits for a wide range of conditions. This has led directly to the birth of Western or medical acupuncture, or what is known as dry needling—contemporary forms of acupuncture that are not necessarily more effective than classical acupuncture but are more aligned with modern Western medicine and physiology.

2. How does acupuncture work?

According to classical Chinese medicine, acupuncture works to restore the body’s ability to heal and regenerate itself. It does this by stimulating the movement of qi and blood within the body, thereby removing blockages that can lead to illness. According to a classical Chinese proverb, “If there is free flow, there is no pain. If there is pain, there is no free flow.” In other words, Chinese medicine proposes that it is the movement and free flow of qi and blood within the body necessary to maintain health.

In contrast, Western medicine believes that acupuncture’s effects may be explained by the release of endogenous opioids and oxytocin following the stimulation of acupuncture points with needles.

3. What conditions can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of health issues, including chronic pain, headaches, nausea, anxiety and more.

In April 2021, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) stated that in future, doctors should advise sufferers to use physical and psychological therapies rather than analgesics to manage their pain. NICE now endorses acupuncture in the treatment of chronic pain and has stated that it proves more effective in managing chronic primary pain than analgesics. NICE recommends considering acupuncture as a treatment option for primary chronic (long-term) pain, chronic tension-type headaches and migraines.

For the most up-to-date research and evidence on the efficacy of acupuncture, please visit the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) or Evidence Based Acupuncture websites.

4. Is acupuncture safe?

When performed by a qualified and trained practitioner, acupuncture is considered safe. However, as with any medical treatment, there are some risks and potential side effects to be aware of.

The most common side effects of acupuncture are minor and include mild bruising, bleeding, or soreness at the needle insertion site. In rare cases, more severe side effects such as infection, nerve damage, or organ puncture may occur, although these are extremely rare.

For this reason, it is essential to ensure that you receive acupuncture treatment from a qualified, experienced and licensed practitioner who follows strict safety protocols; for example, implementing high-quality single-use sterilised needles, following stringent hygiene protocols, and taking a thorough medical history to identify any potential contraindications or risks before treatment.

If you have any concerns or questions about the safety of acupuncture, it’s important to discuss these with your practitioner before treatment. They will be able to address any concerns and provide information about the potential risks and benefits of acupuncture.

5. What should I expect during an acupuncture treatment?

STEP 1: Case History (20 mins)

An assessment of your general health and medical history, which includes the following:

• A discussion about your presenting complaint.
• A physical assessment: body, tongue and pulse diagnosis.
• An opportunity to raise any questions that you may have before treatment.

STEP 2: Treatment Plan (10 mins)

Before treatment, your practitioner will discuss your treatment plan and the proposed locations for needle placement. He will begin by placing very fine needles at these strategic points on your body.

STEP 3: Treatment (20 mins)

After placement, your practitioner may gently manipulate the needles to stimulate the acupuncture points or channels. Moxibustion, gua sha or cupping therapies may be added to the treatment if necessary.

The needles remain in place for approximately 20 minutes. While you rest during this time, your practitioner may tend to other patients in adjoining rooms.

STEP 4: Needle Removal (5 mins)

After approximately 20 minutes, all needles are removed and disposed of hygienically in sharps containers.

Finally, in line with your treatment plan, your practitioner will advise you when to book a follow-up appointment.

6. How long does an acupuncture treatment last?

The length of an acupuncture treatment can vary depending on the individual practitioner and the nature of the condition being treated. Typically, sessions last between 30 and 60 minutes. At Acupuncture West London, initial appointments last up to 55 minutes and follow-up appointments 35 minutes.

7. How many acupuncture sessions will I need?

The number of acupuncture sessions you may need depends on the specific conditions you want to treat. Following your initial consultation and treatment, your practitioner will discuss and agree on a treatment plan with you.

As a guideline, we recommend that you return for treatment regularly—perhaps once or twice per week to begin with. Some people may experience relief after just one treatment, while others may need multiple sessions over a period of weeks or months. It’s important to keep in mind that with chronic conditions, it is likely to take more time before you see noticeable improvements.

8. Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is generally not painful, and most patients find acupuncture treatments relaxing. On needle insertion, patients often describe a dull, slightly aching sensation, numbness or tingling that disappears after a few moments. Depending on the acupuncture points utilised, one may also feel a mild electrical sensation known as de qi. This sensation indicates to the practitioner that the qi at this acupuncture point has been activated. Finally, one may feel nothing at all.

9. Are there any side effects of acupuncture?

Acupuncture is virtually free of side effects—the most likely of which is minor bruising or bleeding at the site of needling or cupping. Although still unlikely, bruises are no cause for alarm and will clear on their own accord. In addition, one may occasionally experience dizziness, nausea, fatigue or a temporary worsening of symptoms—all of which can actually be a positive sign that the treatment is working. However, if you have any concerns, you can discuss these with your acupuncturist.

10. Can acupuncture be used in conjunction with other medical treatments?

As an alternative therapy, acupuncture can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with other medical treatments, and many people use acupuncture as a complementary therapy to Western medicine.

11. How should I prepare for an acupuncture treatment?

We advise wearing loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to your appointment, so as to allow your practitioner easy access to areas where the needles may be placed; for example, forearms, lower legs and abdomen. We recommend eating a light meal approximately one hour before the treatment and avoiding caffeine and alcohol beforehand.

12. How do I find a qualified acupuncture practitioner?

There are several ways to find a qualified acupuncturist in London:

1. Check professional associations: You can search for qualified acupuncturists on the websites of professional associations such as the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) or the British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS). These associations maintain a list of qualified acupuncturists who have met the highest standards of training and practise in Chinese and Western or medical acupuncture, respectively.
2. Ask for recommendations: You can ask friends, family members or colleagues for recommendations of acupuncturists they have used and trust. Word of mouth can be a helpful way to find a qualified practitioner.
3. Check online directories: You can also search for qualified acupuncturists on online directories such as Google or directories specifically for complementary therapies like the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), Doctify, the Therapy Directory or the Acupuncture Fertility Network (AFN).
4. Consult your GP: If you are unsure about finding an acupuncturist on your own, you can also consult your GP or other healthcare professional for a referral to a qualified acupuncturist.

Once you have identified a potential acupuncturist, it’s a good idea to research their qualifications and experience, and to review any testimonials from previous patients. This way, you can ensure that you find a practitioner who fits your specific needs.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Finding the right practitioner is of primary importance, and they should be able to answer any questions and alleviate any concerns you may have before booking an appointment.

13. Is acupuncture covered by health insurance?

Some insurance plans cover acupuncture, although coverage can vary widely depending on your individual plan. It’s advisable to speak with your insurer directly before booking an appointment. Often, your insurer will be able to recommend a qualified practitioner registered on their database who meets certain stringent criteria; for example, they may insist that you seek treatment from a practitioner registered with a professional organisation like the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) or the British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS). Both organisations are governed by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA) and membership guarantees the highest standards within the profession in relation to Chinese acupuncture and Western or medical acupuncture respectively.

Acupuncture West London is a fully certified member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) and the British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS).

14. How long has acupuncture been around?

Acupuncture has been practised for thousands of years and originates in ancient China. The earliest written records of acupuncture date back to the second century BCE, and the practice has continued to evolve and develop over the centuries. Today, acupuncture is practised worldwide and has become increasingly popular as a form of complementary and alternative medicine.

15. What are the differences between traditional Chinese acupuncture, western acupuncture and dry needling?

Traditional Chinese acupuncture, Western acupuncture and dry needling have some similarities and key differences.

Traditional Chinese acupuncture is rooted in the theory of balancing the body’s energy, or qi, by stimulating specific points along the body’s meridians with fine needles. This practice has been used for thousands of years and is rooted in Chinese medicine and philosophy.

On the other hand, Western acupuncture or dry needling is often seen as a more modern approach. It relies solely on the current scientific understanding of the body’s nervous system and the role of neurotransmitters in pain and healing. Western acupuncture typically involves the insertion of needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerves and trigger the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, such as endorphins.

Another key difference is the training and education of practitioners. In traditional Chinese acupuncture, practitioners are typically trained in the principles and practices of Chinese medicine and philosophy, including the theory of qi and meridians. In Western acupuncture, practitioners may come from various healthcare professions and use acupuncture as one tool as part of a treatment plan.

Despite these differences, traditional Chinese and Western acupuncture have been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions and can be used in conjunction with other medical treatments.

At Acupuncture West London, we are fully certified members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) and the British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS), and we are practitioners of traditional Chinese and Western or medical acupuncture. With this in mind, you can be confident that you are in the best possible hands and that our practitioners are of the highest standard.

16. What is the difference in training between Chinese medicine acupuncturists and Western acupuncture or dry needling?

The training and education required for traditional Chinese acupuncture practitioners and those who practice Western acupuncture or dry needling are quite different.

Traditional Chinese acupuncture practitioners typically complete a 3 to 4-year Master’s degree program in Chinese medicine or acupuncture, which includes extensive studies of traditional Chinese medicine philosophy, acupuncture techniques, treatment and diagnosis. They must also study Western medicine paradigms (anatomy, physiology and pathology) and complete a minimum of 3,600 clinical hours to become licensed to practise.

In contrast, Western medicine or dry-needling practitioners are typically licensed healthcare providers such as physical therapists, chiropractors or medical doctors who have received additional training in using acupuncture needles to treat pain and musculoskeletal conditions. The training for dry needling can vary but typically involves a weekend or several-day course in which practitioners learn basic needling techniques.

It’s important to note that while Chinese acupuncture and Western acupuncture or dry needling all involve the use of needles, they are not the same practice. Dry needling is a modern technique solely based on Western anatomy and physiology, while traditional Chinese acupuncture also encompasses these but is primarily rooted in classical Chinese medicine and philosophy.

At Acupuncture West London, we are fully certified members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) and the British Medical Acupuncture Society (BMAS), and we are practitioners of traditional Chinese and Western or medical acupuncture. With this in mind, you can be confident that you are in the best possible hands and that our practitioners are of the highest standard.

17. Is acupuncture safe for children?

Yes, acupuncture can be safe and effective for children when performed by a qualified practitioner. However, it’s important to note that the use of acupuncture for children should always be under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

In general, acupuncture is a low-risk treatment with few side effects when performed correctly. However, some children may be more sensitive to the needles than others, and there is a risk of bruising or minor bleeding at the needle site. Additionally, children with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications may not be good candidates for acupuncture.

Finding a qualified acupuncture practitioner with experience working with children is also essential. When developing a treatment plan, the practitioner should consider the child’s age, size, and medical history and use a gentle and reassuring approach to help children feel comfortable during the treatment.

Overall, acupuncture can be a safe and effective option for children experiencing various health issues, including pain, anxiety, digestive problems, and respiratory issues. However, it’s important to talk to your child’s healthcare provider to determine if acupuncture is a good choice for their needs.

18. Are there different forms of acupuncture?

Many other acupuncture traditions and styles are practised worldwide, and each has its unique approach and techniques.

1. Traditional or classical Chinese acupuncture: This is the oldest and most well-known form of acupuncture, based on the principles of Chinese medicine and philosophy. Practitioners have typically completed a 3 to 4-year Master’s degree program in Chinese medicine or acupuncture, which includes extensive coursework in traditional Chinese medicine theory, acupuncture techniques, and diagnosis. In addition, they have also studied Western medicine paradigms (anatomy, physiology and pathology) and completed a certain number of clinical hours to become licensed to practice.
2. Japanese acupuncture: This form of acupuncture emphasises more gentle needle techniques, and the needles are often left in place for a shorter time than in traditional Chinese acupuncture.
3. Korean acupuncture: This style of acupuncture incorporates both traditional Chinese acupuncture and traditional Korean medicine.
4. Five-Element acupuncture: This form of acupuncture is based on the five elements of traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on balancing the body’s energy in relation to these elements.
5. Western Medical acupuncture: This form of acupuncture is practised by Western medical practitioners who have received specialised training in acupuncture; for example, doctors, dentists, etc. Practitioners usually attend a short course over a weekend or lasting several days.
6. Auricular acupuncture: This form of microsystems acupuncture focuses specifically on the ear and is often used to treat addiction and other conditions; for example, the NADA protocol.
7. Scalp acupuncture: This form of microsystems acupuncture involves needling specific points on the scalp and is often used to treat neurological disorders and pain.
8. Trigger point acupuncture or dry needling: This form of acupuncture focuses on trigger points, or areas of tight muscle fibres, and is often used to treat pain and muscular issues. It is practised by health practitioners who have received specialised training in acupuncture; for example, physiotherapists, chiropractors, etc. Practitioners usually attend a short course over a weekend or lasting several days.
9. Acupressure: This form of acupuncture involves applying pressure to specific points on the body with the fingers rather than using needles.
10. Electro-acupuncture: This form of acupuncture involves using small electrical currents applied to the needles to enhance the therapeutic effects of the treatment.

Can acupuncture help me?

For the most up-to-date research and evidence on the efficacy of acupuncture, please visit the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) website.

If you would like to learn more about how acupuncture may be able to help you, please contact us today.

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