5 Acupuncture Myths We All Need To Stop Believing: A Doctor Explains

Although acupuncture has been around for almost 4,000 years, it remains a mystery to most Americans. That's why I'm sharing the top five myths about acupuncture—and explaining what you should really know:

I mean, you’re using needles right? Yes...and no. The needles we use in acupuncture are miniature versions of the ones used to draw your blood at the doctor’s office. They are about the size of two to three human hairs. Sometimes you may feel an initial prick, which fades away in seconds. Most of the time you don’t even realize you have a needle in your body—unless you decide to start doing jumping jacks all of a sudden (not recommended).

I don't mean this as an offense to hippies (especially since I consider myself one!). Acupuncture is for everyone. You would actually be surprised how many people are getting regular treatments but keeping it a secret. I've treated everyone from the CEO of a major company to the local school teacher. Ask your friend, co-worker, or family member if they have ever tried acupuncture. You'll probably find that the answer is often yes.

It’s true that acupuncture helps with pain, especially joint, back, headaches, and menstrual cramps. There is an abundance of research to back up its effectiveness for pain. However, I've also successfully helped manage many other conditions using acupuncture, including nausea, allergies, anxiety, depression, hypertension (high blood pressure), and fibromyalgia, among others.

Still, it's mostly a myth, as numerous studies of acupuncture have shown that our brains release chemicals like endorphins (natural painkillers) and substance P (calms overactive nerves) along with additional anti-inflammatory effects on the body.

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