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Is Acupuncture Safe? What You Need to Know

Learn the benefits and risks of acupuncture treatment & what to expect from sessions.

If you’ve never had acupuncture, you’re probably wondering – is it safe? Many people want to experience the benefits of acupuncture but fear the idea of it. However, acupuncture is a low-risk procedure that can effectively treat conditions like arthritis, migraines, and sports injuries. It can even improve your mood!

Our Halifax, NS acupuncturists at Key Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre are highly trained specialists who can teach you more about treatment and determine if acupuncture is right for you.

Call our clinic today to request an appointment!

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a holistic treatment that involves the use of very thin, sterile needles that are strategically inserted into the skin. This practice originated from traditional Chinese medicine and has become increasingly popular over the years due to its incredible benefits. The purpose of acupuncture is to stimulate specific points throughout your body and relieve symptoms of a health condition such as chronic pain.

Is Acupuncture Safe? Here Are the Benefits and Risks

Acupuncture is generally considered safe and low-risk. Only licensed acupuncturists who have completed extensive education and training can perform the procedure.

Just like any procedure, there are certain risks of acupuncture treatment. However, these are rare and unlikely to occur, especially when done by an experienced acupuncturist like our practitioners at Key Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre in Halifax, NS.

Acupuncture risk factors include:

  • Infection: There are some concerns of infection from acupuncture needles coming in contact with the skin. However, practices are required to use sterile, single-use disposable needles, which significantly reduces the chance of infection.
  • Injury: Because acupuncture needles penetrate the skin, there is a risk of injury to different nerves and structures. Injuries are rare among patients treated by trained practitioners.
  • Short-term side effects: Some additional risk factors associated with acupuncture include short-term side effects such as nausea, fatigue, headache, and similar symptoms. Patients may feel soreness or experience mild bruising during treatment, which is normal and not of concern.

Fortunately, with risks unlikely to happen, the majority of patients enjoy the benefits and positive results from acupuncture treatment. This powerful healing technique can help people achieve optimal wellness without medication or invasive medical procedures.

The benefits of acupuncture include:

  • Pain relief: One of the main purposes behind acupuncture is pain relief. This treatment focuses on reducing pain that is both chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks) and acute (typically caused by an injury or illness) by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural pain-killing chemicals. Acupuncture also helps to balance serotonin levels, which are involved with mood and promote stress relief.
  • Reduced inflammation and swelling: Acupuncture restores chemicals that can reduce swelling and negative immune responses.
  • Improved mood and energy levels: Acupuncture can have a positive effect on mood by facilitating the production of endorphins, serotonin, and melatonin. These hormones affect how you feel on a day-to-day basis as well as your sleep habits and psychological issues like depression and anxiety.

Prior to your acupuncture session, our practitioners will thoroughly explain the procedure and address any questions or concerns that you may have. Additionally, we always perform treatment with careful precautions to avoid any potential risks!

What to Expect From Acupuncture Sessions at Key Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre

Our Key Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre in Halifax, NS acupuncturists will start with a comprehensive assessment of your condition, symptoms, medical history, and other health factors. All of these essential details will help us determine if acupuncture is a good fit for you.

Next, we’ll create a plan that includes a series of acupuncture treatments. The goal of each session is to restore health by facilitating the energy flowing through the meridians (energetic passageways). Although you may feel relief from your first session, multiple sessions typically create longer-lasting relief than when a single treatment is used.

During an acupuncture session, your practitioner will insert the tiny needles into specific points in your body. This is a strategic process intended to release trigger points by penetrating the muscle and causing it to contract. Sessions usually last from 20-30 minutes to 60 minutes or slightly longer.

Request an Appointment Today.

Acupuncture could enhance your quality of life by helping you find relief from pain and discomfort. Call our acupuncturists at Key Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre in Halifax, NS today to learn more about the safety and effectiveness of acupuncture and discover if it’s right for you!

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