Acupuncture

How it works

Traditional theory holds that it regulates Qi flow along meridians. Contemporary research indicates stimulation of nerves, muscles and connective tissue, triggering release of endorphins and neurotransmitters, modulating pain pathways in the central nervous system, reducing inflammation and improving local blood flow (per WHO benchmarks and reviews).

What to expect

One session typically lasts 30-60 minutes. Patients often experience a brief prick followed by sensations of soreness, numbness, distension or heaviness (De Qi). Needles are retained 15-30 minutes with possible mild manipulation. A standard course involves 6-12 sessions, 1-3 times weekly depending on the condition. Most find it relaxing.

Typical programme

45 min per session, about 10 sessions per course

Cautions

• Use only by qualified licensed practitioners with sterile single-use needles to prevent infection
• Inform practitioner of bleeding disorders, anticoagulant use, or pregnancy (avoid certain points)
• Possible minor side effects: bruising, soreness, dizziness or fainting
• Not for acute emergencies; seek conventional medical care when appropriate
• Pacemaker patients should avoid electroacupuncture

Often used for

• Chronic low back painCochrane review (2020): may reduce pain short-term vs no treatment; limited additional benefit vs sham; moderate certainty evidence
• MigraineCochrane review: acupuncture reduces migraine frequency; valuable option with at least 6 sessions
• Nausea and vomitingWHO 2002: proved effective through controlled trials (chemotherapy, postoperative, morning sickness)
• Allergic rhinitisWHO recognized as condition for which acupuncture has been proved effective
• HeadacheWHO 2002 listed as effective; supported by clinical trials
• Neck painSystematic reviews/PubMed: moderate evidence for pain relief at short-term follow-up vs sham
• Primary dysmenorrheaWHO 2002: proved effective via controlled trials
• Knee osteoarthritisReviews show pain relief and function improvement; positive short and long term vs controls
• DepressionCochrane: low-quality evidence suggesting reduction in severity; more research needed
• Post-stroke rehabilitationCochrane: benefits not confirmed in sham-controlled trials; very low quality evidence
• Tennis elbowWHO 2002: proved effective in controlled trials
• Postoperative painWHO 2002: proved effective through controlled clinical trials