Do Acupuncture Needles Have Medicine In Them?

Acupuncture is a therapy that involves inserting extremely fine steel needles into the skin at certain points in the body. The purpose is to alleviate a health problem or symptom like discomfort. Traditional Chinese medicine is the source of this method. Its efficacy for various illnesses has been established by scientific investigations.

Although acupuncture has been around for over 3,500 years and brings treatment to people all over the globe, many people still have a lot of misconceptions. Because acupuncture includes the use of needles, many individuals are curious as to whether or not acupuncture needles contain medications. To clear up the misconception, the needles used in acupuncture are usually made of stainless steel and are disposable. “They don’t have any medicine in them”. They are very small, like hair. They are much smaller than hypodermic needles, which are used to give injections.

Details of Acupuncture Needles

Acupuncture needles are separated into five sections: the tip, the body, the root, the handle, and the tail. A needle’s tip and body are the portions that are placed into a subject’s body at acupuncture locations. In most cases, acupuncture needles are made of stainless steel, and they are available in gauges ranging from 26 to 40 with lengths varying from 0.5 to 2.5 inches. Acupuncture needles are often referred to as “painless needles” because of their tiny size.

Acupuncture needles, in general, are thinner and hence softer than hollow bore needles like intravenous (IV) catheters, phlebotomy needles, or neuraxial needles. “Needle penetration” is how acupuncture is translated. “Acupoints”, or acupuncture points, are areas where acupuncture needles are inserted where qi (energy) can be accessed. Qi runs through meridians or channels via which it may flow. Needle penetration is the most frequent and traditional method of accessing qi. Manual pressure, electrical stimulation, laser, heat, and even ultrasound have all been used to treat stagnation of qi. The use of these modalities is supposed to influence qi in a similar manner as needle penetration.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Acupuncture therapy is not intended to be painful, however you may feel some sensations throughout the procedure. You may experience heaviness or numbness which is usually a good thing. “These feelings are a good sign that the therapy is working”.

Acupuncture is considered to be extremely safe when administered by a trained and licensed acupuncturist who follows approved standards and regulations. If you are thinking of trying acupuncture, consult your practitioner first and make sure he or she is aware of any current treatments or medications you are taking.