According to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), health is determined by the balance of the life force, Qi or chi, in the body. It flows through the body via various points called “meridians”. When the opposing forces of Ying and Yang along with the five basic elements that make up the entire Universe, disrupt the flow of life force, it can lead to illnesses.

To ensure the general well-being of one’s health, the energy balance should be maintained. And, acupuncture is an ancient healing technique that sets out to do the same. It treats multiple illnesses of the mind and body by inserting tiny needles into the skin at certain points (acupoints). The aim is to remove congestion and ensure an adequate flow of energy throughout the body.

It is often said that acupuncture needles cause the body to release endorphins – body’s natural pain killers, and thus help in boosting the blood flow, enhancing brain activity, reducing pain and improving the overall health of the patient. From treating patients for chronic pain, acute pain, insomnia, indigestion, infertility to improving the conditions of those suffering from illnesses such as diabetes and dementia, acupuncture is recognized by Western medicine as an alternative healing practice.

Are Acupuncture Needles Safe to Use?

YES, acupuncture needles are safe to be administered on the patient's body. The US FDA considers acupuncture needles as medical equipment used by “trained professionals”. FDA holds them to the same standards as other medical devices. It means the acupuncture needles that come to the market need to be passed through rigorous quality checks and protocols.

Additionally, it is required by law to use single-use, disposable acupuncture needles. It avoids cross-contamination and reduces the chances of infections. Thorough disposable of acupuncture needles is also required by acupuncturists and TCM practitioners.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

With the right technique and correct size of acupuncture needles, it rarely hurts. Often, the patients may feel little to no pain when the needles are inserted or removed from the body. In some cases, bleeding, bruising and soreness may persist for some time.

It is important to understand that certain acupuncture treatments include the use of lancet needles for removing blood by reopening the orifices. The blood-letting treatment is administered to let out “bad blood” generated in the body due to injury and certain kinds of fevers. The TCM practitioner will use the technique to eliminate congestion, maintain the balance of Qi, and remove pathogens from the blood.

Why go to a Licensed Acupuncture Practitioner?

First of all, not everyone can buy acupuncture needles. Online acupuncture wholesale supplies store and offline brick and mortar stores require you to have a practitioner's license to buy acupuncture needles. If a place is selling you acupuncture needles without requiring you to produce a license, it is a bit shady. Avoid buying needles from such a place because you cannot be assured of quality.

Acupuncture is a very precise healing technique that requires insertion of needles in specific points. If you insert the needles in a wrong way or keep them in the body for a long time, it can have adverse effects and lead to more imbalance of chi. Always have professional administering needles on your body.

A licensed, certified practitioner will be able to diagnose the underlying issue correctly. They have sufficient knowledge and required experience to understand the problem and solve it. So, you must choose a licensed TCM practitioner for effective healing.

Remember acupuncture is a safe treatment only when you choose a licensed professional.