Understanding Acupuncture: Its Uses and Benefits

Understanding Acupuncture: Its Uses and Benefits

Have you heard of acupuncture but still have questions about what actually happens during a session? It’s natural to be curious—and even skeptical—about a practice involving ultra-thin needles inserted into specific points on the body. Acupuncture is one of the oldest therapies in the world, with roots in traditional Chinese medicine dating back over two thousand years. Today, it is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an integrative practice with applications for various health conditions.

In recent years, interest in complementary therapies has grown significantly. In Brazil, the Unified Health System (SUS) has incorporated acupuncture as an integrative and complementary practice since 2006 through the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices (PNPIC), expanding public access to this resource. This doesn’t mean it works for every case or replaces conventional treatments—but it indicates that, in certain contexts, it can be a valuable ally in healthcare.

This article provides evidence-based information on what acupuncture is, how it works, its common indications, and what science says about it so far. The goal is to help you make more informed decisions about your own care—always in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

What Exactly is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a therapeutic technique originating from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that involves inserting sterilized, single-use metal needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points or acupoints. These points are distributed along energy channels called meridians, through which, according to TCM, the qi (pronounced “chi”)—a type of vital energy—flows.

From the perspective of Western medicine, researchers have been investigating possible physiological mechanisms that might explain the effects of acupuncture, such as the release of neurotransmitters (including endorphins), modulation of the autonomic nervous system, and local anti-inflammatory responses. These mechanisms are still under study, and there is no complete scientific consensus on how acupuncture acts in the body.

It’s important to understand that acupuncture is not a homogeneous practice: there are different styles and approaches, such as classical Chinese acupuncture, Japanese acupuncture, auriculotherapy (which works on points in the ear), and electroacupuncture, among other variations. In Brazil, professionals qualified to perform acupuncture include those with recognized training by their respective professional councils—such as doctors, physiotherapists, nurses, psychologists, and dentists—with specific training in the area.

How Does an Acupuncture Session Work?

Many people report anxiety before their first session, especially due to fear of needles. It’s worth knowing that the needles used are much thinner than common injection needles, and most people describe the sensation as a mild pressure, tingling, or warmth at the site—not a sharp pain.

Here’s a general overview of what a session typically involves:

1. Initial Assessment: The professional discusses your symptoms, health history, lifestyle, and treatment goals with you.
2. Point Evaluation: Based on this conversation, the acupuncturist determines which points will be targeted in the session.
3. Needle Insertion: Needles are inserted into the selected points and remain in place for a period typically ranging from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the protocol and objective.
4. Removal and Guidance: The needles are carefully removed, and the professional may offer advice on what to observe in the following days.

   The frequency and number of sessions vary greatly depending on the case and condition being treated. There is no universal protocol—and any professional who promises guaranteed results in a fixed number of sessions should be approached with caution.

   What Conditions is Acupuncture Commonly Used For?

   The WHO has published lists of conditions for which acupuncture has shown results in clinical studies—with varying degrees of evidence. It’s crucial to highlight that the level of evidence varies significantly among conditions, and “shown results in studies” is not the same as “cure” or “definitive treatment.”

   Among the conditions for which studies suggest acupuncture may contribute as a complementary therapy are:

   • Musculoskeletal pain, such as lower back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis
   • Headaches and migraines—some systematic reviews indicate it may help prevent attacks in certain patient profiles
   • Nausea and vomiting, including those related to chemotherapy and pregnancy
   • Neuropathic pain
   • Symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes
   • Anxiety and sleep disorders—preliminary studies are promising, but evidence is still considered limited

     There is also growing interest in using acupuncture as support in palliative care and managing side effects of cancer treatments, although more robust research is still needed.

     What Science Says—Honestly

     Acupuncture is one of the most studied complementary therapies globally, with hundreds of clinical trials published. Even so, interpreting these studies is complex for several reasons:

     • Methodological difficulty: It’s challenging to create a “perfect placebo” for acupuncture, as people generally know if they are receiving needles or not.
     • Variability among studies: Different styles, professionals, and protocols make direct comparisons difficult.
     • Effect of therapeutic context: The relationship between patient and therapist, the environment, and patient expectations seem to influence results, complicating the isolation of the specific effect of the needles.

       Systematic reviews published in journals like JAMA Internal Medicine and the British Medical Journal suggest that acupuncture may offer modest benefits for chronic pain compared to no treatment, but results are heterogeneous. Researchers continue to debate how much of the effect is due to the technique itself and how much is due to contextual factors.

       This does not invalidate the practice—it means it deserves to be understood clearly, without exaggerations in any direction.

       When Acupuncture Should NOT Be Used Without Medical Guidance

       Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified professional, using sterilized, single-use needles. However, certain situations require special attention:

       • People with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulants should inform the professional
       • Pregnant women should inform the acupuncturist, as some points are contraindicated during pregnancy
       • People with pacemakers should be cautious, especially with techniques that use electrical stimulation
       • Acupuncture should not replace established medical treatments for serious conditions

         If you have any pre-existing health conditions, use acupuncture only as a complement, not as a substitute for medical care.

         When to Consult a Professional

         Consider consulting a healthcare professional before starting acupuncture sessions if you:

         • Have a diagnosed health condition (especially chronic, cardiovascular, autoimmune, or cancer-related diseases)
         • Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
         • Regularly take medications
         • Have never undergone a medical evaluation for the symptom you wish to treat

           Additionally, when seeking an acupuncturist, verify that the professional has training and registration with the relevant professional council in their field. In Brazil, the Federal Council of Medicine (CFM), the Federal Council of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy (COFFITO), and other councils regulate the practice of acupuncture by their respective professionals.

           Remember, health care goes beyond any single therapy. Practices of self-care and balanced daily habits—such as a varied diet, adequate sleep, and regular movement—form the foundation of sustainable well-being.

           Conclusion

           

           Acupuncture is a practice with a millennia-old history and, today, a growing body of scientific research exploring its potential benefits. For some conditions, like chronic pain and migraines, studies suggest it can be a useful ally in the context of integrated care. For others, the evidence is still preliminary and requires further investigation.

           The most important thing is that you feel empowered to make informed choices about your health—always in partnership with qualified professionals, without forgoing conventional treatments when necessary, and without harboring unrealistic expectations about any therapy.

           If you’re considering trying acupuncture, talk to your doctor or trusted healthcare professional. Every body is unique, every story is different, and the care you deserve is one that is attentive and respectful of your individuality.

           This content is informative and educational and does not replace evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult a doctor or qualified professional for guidance on your specific case.