How To

How to Do Acupuncture

By eHow Health Editor
Rate: (7 Ratings)

Acupuncture is one of the most accepted forms of alternative medicine. It can be a simple procedure, but you must be certain you are prepared to perform these procedures. Acupuncture needles release hormones and chemicals in your body, if inserted properly. These indicators send messages to the brain that alleviate pain.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Sterile acupuncturist needles
  1. Step 1

    Determine the treatment area that needs acupuncture by enlisting the help of the patient. Speak with them and ask about their symptoms in order to get a clear understanding of the problem.

  2. Step 2

    Familiarize yourself with the specific acupuncture points that relieve particular pains. These are along defined meridians throughout the body.

  3. Step 3

    Buy packaged, sterile acupuncture needles to use during the treatment process. These come in a variety of packaged sizes in retail stores where you buy spa products and alternative medicine treatments.

  4. Step 4

    Insert the needles, using the guide tube, as appropriate for the affected area. Most acupuncture treatments require the needle to go in only one-quarter to one inch. This allows the insertion to be relatively pain free. It will stay there for the length of the treatment, which is on average 15 to 20 minutes.

  5. Step 5

    Allow the patient to enjoy the quiet time during the treatment process. Many patients relax completely and fall asleep.

Tips & Warnings
  • The depth needed for acupuncture needle insertion depends on the condition being treated, the size of the patient and the patient's age.
  • Be aware that patients taking blood-thinning medications may experience prolonged bleeding where they were stuck.

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eHow Article: How to Do Acupuncture

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