Acupuncture Needles - Traditional Healing Tools

Acupuncture needles are thin, sterile needles used in traditional Chinese medicine to stimulate specific points on the body. Acupuncture is believed to help restore the flow of energy (Qi) and promote healing.
Category
Tool
Where to get
Available in acupuncture clinics, holistic health centers
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Acupuncture Needles FAQ


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How do acupuncture needles work?

Your acupuncturist will tap the needles into points in your skin throughout your body. The acupuncture needles are sterile, disposable and as thin as a human hair. Your acupuncturist inserts needles at various depths, from a fraction of an inch to a couple of inches.

Why should you choose acupuncture needles?

Different needles are designed for different purposes, and the choice of needle can greatly affect the patient's experience and the treatment's effectiveness. Lastly, it's worth noting that while acupuncture is a traditional form of medicine, it is also supported by scientific evidence.

What are acupuncture needles made of?

Some needles have a silicon coating to help with smoother insertion. There are also acupuncture needles made of various materials like silver or gold (usually a composite), but these are not often used. Some non-insertive acupuncture tools may be made of a wide variety of metals such as copper, titanium and others.

What are acupuncture needles used for?

Acupuncture needles, when inserted into specific points, can help relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and manage pain. This process is beneficial for conditions like arthritis, back pain, neck pain, and sciatica. It’s also used to treat mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. What Does Acupuncture Needling Do?

What is acupuncture needling?

Acupuncture needling involves the strategic insertion of thin, stainless-steel filiform needles at predefined points in the body. Far from being a distressing experience, these needles are much thinner than those used for injections or blood draws. The fear of pain often associated with needles is seldom warranted in acupuncture.

How many needles does acupuncture use?

A typical acupuncture treatment will use between five to twenty needles depending on the number of acupoints your practitioner will tap into. Risks The risks of injury in acupuncture are relatively low as long as you have a competent, experienced, and certified practitioner using sterile needles.

Acupuncture Needles References

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