For thousands of years, acupuncture has been used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, but Western medicine only recently accepted it. The experience and effectiveness of the procedure, however, are often misunderstood. Ensure you reap the benefits of this treatment by understanding these truths.

Common Misconceptions About Acupuncture

1. It’s Painful

Many people associate acupuncture with pain due to the needles. Despite that, the experience differs greatly from that of a shot. The needles used in acupuncture are extremely thin and cause relatively little pain since they are inserted very quickly. These areas may feel tingly or pressure at first, but it will fade as blockages are released and energy can flow freely again.

2. Treatments Are Limited

The best-known benefits of acupuncture include treating back pain, migraines, and muscular disorders. It can also help with lifestyle issues. 

Many people report positive results from it, including those with insomnia, depression, and gastrointestinal issues, as well as people going through chemotherapy and living with conditions like lupus and multiple sclerosis. It's best to speak with your primary care physician first if you have a condition and are considering trying acupuncture.

3. The Benefits Are a Placebo Effect

The goal of acupuncture is to remove blockages from meridians that run throughout the body so that energy, or qi, can flow freely. Since this concept is strange in the context of Western medicine, many people have assumed it's simply a placebo effect. The treatment does, however, produce endorphins and can relieve stress and reduce inflammation in the body, making it a viable complementary treatment.

If you’re ready to explore acupuncture and other holistic treatments, book a session at Avicenna Acupuncture & Lymphedema Clinic. This Wheat Ridge, CO, health center provides a broad range of services, including cupping therapy, electroacupunture, and treatment for sports injuries. Call (303) 803-0675 to schedule a session and visit their website to learn more about their services.