Contraindications for Acupuncture that You Should Consider

It is commonly accepted knowledge that acupuncture is a form of treatment that falls under the category of medical therapy. As a result, many medical professionals and practitioners think that acupuncture is a helpful therapy that may be used in conjunction with other medical therapies or as an alternative to medical treatments. 

In rare circumstances, conventional painkillers may be supplemented with acupuncture or used in place of them entirely.

According to a statement that was distributed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the year 1998, there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that acupuncture has beneficial qualities that can alleviate pain in adults who are experiencing postoperative dental pain or nausea as a result of chemotherapy. 

This assertion was contained in a report that was written and distributed by the NIH. According to the findings of a study conducted by the (NIH), acupuncture has the potential to be a successful treatment for a wide range of conditions, such as low back pain, headaches, myofascial pain, osteoarthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. 

In China and other eastern nations, acupuncture is sometimes utilized in a variety of surgical operations, including those involving the brain, the abdomen, and other areas of the body. 

One example of this is using acupuncture to treat pain after surgery. When doing surgery, acupuncture may occasionally be used with other forms of anaesthesia.

However, just like any other treatment choice, acupuncture has its own potential side effects and financial commitments. 

Before making any conclusion about whether or not acupuncture is a feasible therapeutic choice, one must thoroughly understand the components involved in acupuncture. This will also help you decide whether or not you should take acupuncture treatments.

Things to Consider for Acupuncture

Before going through acupuncture, there are a few things you should think about first.

Seek Recommendation

Get someone else’s recommendation for a healthcare provider or a trustworthy organization. A significant number of medical professionals are familiar with the concepts that underpin acupuncture and are able, upon a patient’s request, to recommend a qualified acupuncturist.

Do Your Research

Do some research about the educational and professional experiences of the acupuncturist. It is critical to investigate the history and credentials of an acupuncture practitioner, just as one would do with any other health care practitioner because acupuncture is a very new field. 

A medical doctor, a doctor of osteopathic medicine, a doctor of chiropractic, or a physical therapist may be eligible to get a license to practice acupuncture. 

In some regions of the country, in addition to licensed acupuncturists, other medical professionals, such as registered nurses, may also be eligible to become certified acupuncturists. 

To get licensed to practice acupuncture in the United States, one must satisfy the criteria set out by the state. In certain areas, you need to earn a degree in acupuncture and pass a board test to practice. On the other hand, the standards in other states are significantly less strict.

Know Your Purpose for Acupuncture Treatment

It is essential to understand why acupuncture treatment is desired and what result is expected from the therapy. The acupuncturist must be informed of any discomfort or ongoing medical issues that may affect the treatment.

Before starting a treatment course, you must communicate with your acupuncturist about your expectations and goals for the therapy. In certain regions, your acupuncturist may even require a note from your primary care provider stating that acupuncture is an appropriate treatment option.

Be Prepared for a Lengthy Process

Acupuncture may not offer immediate relief, and it may take several sessions to achieve the desired effects. Generally, a course of acupuncture treatment involves multiple visits over a certain period. 

Be Realistic with Your Expectations

No healthcare practitioner can guarantee an inevitable outcome, which applies to acupuncturists. Acupuncture is not a miracle cure-all; it may not work for every person and every condition. It’s essential to have reasonable expectations and be open to other forms of treatment, if necessary.

Acupuncture can be a valuable tool in one’s healthcare journey, but it is essential to approach it with an open mind and understand its limitations. 

Consider Other Factors

Think about both the expenses and the advantages. It is in your best interest to inquire about the success rates of acupuncture and the likelihood of attaining the amount of pain relief you are looking for. This will also help you know if you shouldn’t take acupuncture treatments

If the acupuncture practitioner is not knowledgeable about the patient’s specific illness, or if the acupuncturist practitioner has low hopes for a satisfactory outcome, this should raise a red signal for anybody receiving treatment from that practitioner.

Contraindications

Like any other kind of medical treatment, patients who are experiencing the following conditions shouldn’t take acupuncture treatments:

  • Intoxication caused by drugs or alcohol
  • Utilization of a heart pacemaker
  • A seizure condition
  • Disorders that cause excessive bleeding, such as haemophilia or the use of blood thinners
  • Infections, illnesses, or diseases of the skin
  • If pregnant, needling done in the lumbosacral region or the stomach area can hasten labour and delivery of the baby or possibly result in an abortion

Consult with Our Experts!

At FIT Clinic, we have a team of medical professionals, including licensed acupuncturists, who can offer personalized recommendations for acupuncture treatment.

Reach our experts with any queries about the therapy, whether you should or should not take acupuncture treatments, and its potential benefits for your unique situation. 

Leave a reply