The acupuncture points on the meridian lines throughout the body are used for treatment. This is the most commonly used form of acupuncture.
The theoretical basis of acupuncture healing is the discovery that each hand and foot contains points corresponding to different organs and body parts. These micro points can be used as remote controls to treat diseased organs or body parts. Special Sujok needles are commonly used, which are smaller than traditional Chinese acupuncture needles.
Qi is considered the vital energy circulating throughout the body. When the flow of Qi or blood becomes blocked, pain occurs. Bloodletting is a process involving controlled puncturing to remove blood from affected areas.
The National Institute of Health considers acupuncture to be generally safe when performed by a trained and experienced practitioner using sterile needles. It is important to choose qualified professionals and hygienic facilities.
Acupuncture may help reduce chronic tension headaches and migraines. Studies suggest that strategically placed needles can decrease headache frequency and intensity over time.
Primary headaches commonly treated include:
Tension headaches
Migraines
Cluster headaches
Important acupuncture points mentioned for headaches and migraines include:
DU 20 (top of the head)
LI 4 (left hand)
Acupuncture treatment for muscle spasms usually begins with a physical examination and discussion about symptoms.
Treatment methods may include:
Needles placed directly at pain points (“ashi” points)
Needles inserted at specific acupoints
Electro-stimulation using mild electrical currents
These methods aim to relax muscles and reduce spasms.
Acupuncture is increasingly used for arthritis treatment because many people seek pain relief without the side effects of conventional medications.
Treatment may involve placing very fine needles in areas such as:
Legs
Arms
Shoulders
Toes
The duration and frequency of treatment depend on pain severity and patient condition.
Research studies have shown that acupuncture may help reduce:
Chronic back pain
Neck pain
Osteoarthritis pain
Chronic headaches
Some studies conclude that acupuncture provides benefits beyond placebo effects.
Acupuncture may help improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia symptoms.
Benefits include:
Better sleep support alongside medication or herbal therapy
Fewer side effects compared to many sleep medications
Acupuncture and acupressure points commonly used for allergies include:
LI 4
Liv 3
Located between the thumb and index finger
Helps reduce allergic reactions
Should be avoided during pregnancy
Located between the big toe and second toe
Helps balance liver energy
May relieve allergic reactions and neuromuscular issues
Deep breathing while pressing these points for 1–2 minutes may help manage allergies.
Acupuncture may help regulate digestion by improving:
Food breakdown
Nutrient absorption
Waste elimination
Traditional Chinese Medicine describes the body as balancing yin and yang energy through meridians. Important digestive acupoints mentioned include:
ST 36
ST 25
REN 12
Acupuncture may help relieve ankle and foot pain caused by:
Strain
Standing for long periods
Repetitive movement
Fatigue
The stimulation of pressure points may release endorphins and relax foot muscles.
Varicose veins are enlarged and swollen veins usually appearing in the legs. Symptoms may include:
Burning sensation
Heaviness
Weakness
Pain
Cramps
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, varicose veins result from stagnant blood flow. Acupuncture aims to:
Improve circulation
Redistribute blood and energy flow
Enhance immune function
Restore vein flexibility
Patients may experience mild tingling, heaviness, or itching during treatment.
Acupuncture treatment for lumbar disc or slip disc issues may involve:
Needling empirical points
Adjusting body position to identify pain
Needle manipulation for 1–2 minutes
Additional local point treatment
Needle retention for approximately 30 minutes