Does acupuncture work?
Probably, yes. But let’s start with the question, what is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a treatment derived from ancient Chinese medicine, mainly used for long term pain. Sterilised, one time use needles as fine as a human hair are inserted into the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes.
It is used in many NHS GP practices, as well as in most pain clinics. Some consider it a form of alternative medicine. Here are five myths:
Myth 1. It requires the use of painful needles
No. It does require the use of needles, but it is far from painful. Importantly, the needles themselves are inserted at a very shallow level (2-3mm) just under the skin. Some patients say they feel a surge of energy which is what the Chinese call qi (pronounced chee). This means that the energy is moving towards where it is needed to heal in the body.
Acupuncture is actually so relaxing that most patients fall asleep during an acupuncture session. The needles are surprisingly thin and are often referred to as ‘pins’. They bear no resemblance to the needles used for injections or drawing blood. Whilst there may be a slight pinch with the pin set-up, a deep relaxation typically occurs within minutes.
Myth 2. It doesn’t work
While everyone’s results and experiences with acupuncture may differ, there have been some important studies that demonstrate its effectiveness. In China, acupuncturists regularly work alongside doctors to administer acupuncture as part of the overall healing programme for patients.
Myth 3. It’s a mystical form of voodoo
There is nothing mystical or magical about acupuncture. It is a clinical treatment. While it is not entirely clear how acupuncture works, research continues to explore the possible neurochemical mechanisms of acupuncture’s pain-relieving effects. It may work by stimulating a nerve in the body that then sends a signal to the brain to release pain relieving hormones including endorphins. These hormones can help suppress pain and increase your overall mood, happiness, and pleasure.
Even if the evidence base is not great, there is also not a lot of evidence for many ‘Western medical’ treatments. The placebo effect is real, and may be 50% of the power of Western and Chinese Medicine.
Myth 4. Becoming an acupuncturist requires no training
In the UK, practitioners of acupuncture are medical professionals who have trained in acupuncture to complement their existing medical skills, or those who have studied for a Diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine or a BSc degree in acupuncture, or Traditional Chinese Medicine. The British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), is the regulatory body for qualified acupuncturists.
Myth 5. Acupuncture is just for pain
Currently, NICE only recommends considering acupuncture as a treatment option for:
- chronic (long-term) pain. It may be especially useful in back pain
- chronic tension-type headaches
- migraines.
However, acupuncture is growing in popularity for a variety of patients complaints. It is commonly used to treat musculoskeletal conditions (of the bones and muscles) and a variety of pain conditions, including:
- Joint pain
- Dental pain
- Postoperative pain
- Depression/anxiety
- Gynaecological conditions.
However, the evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture for these conditions, compared with other treatments, is unclear.
Hoping to get the most out of your acupuncture treatment?
The relationship with your acupuncturist may be the key to success. The more experience your acupuncturist has, and the more comfortable you are with them, the better your chance of a successful acupuncture treatment.
Summary
Does acupuncture work? Probably, yes. Either way, we have debunked 5 myths. If you are in chronic pain, why don’t you give it a try.
Other resource
There is more information on acupuncture and the NHE here. It is not normally funded by the NHS.
Last Reviewed on 7 May 2024