Common Misconceptions About Acupuncture: Myth vs. Truth

Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years, with its origins rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Over the centuries, it has gained widespread recognition for its ability to promote healing and balance within the body. However, despite its increasing popularity, acupuncture still carries with it several misconceptions. These myths often discourage people from trying it and fully understanding its healing potential.

At Hanbit Oriental Medical Clinic, we strive to provide accurate information and clear up any misunderstandings surrounding acupuncture. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common myths about acupuncture and provide the truths behind them, helping you make informed decisions about whether acupuncture is right for you.

Myth #1: Acupuncture is painful.

Truth: Acupuncture needles are very thin, causing minimal discomfort.

One of the most common myths about acupuncture is that it is painful. Many people are hesitant to try acupuncture because they fear the needles will be large and cause significant discomfort. However, the needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin—typically about the width of a human hair—making them far less painful than one might imagine.

When inserted properly by a trained professional, acupuncture needles typically cause very little discomfort. Many clients report feeling a slight sensation when the needle is inserted, but most do not feel any pain at all. In fact, most people find acupuncture to be relaxing, with many even falling asleep during their sessions.

It’s important to understand that acupuncture is not about using needles to “poke” or “prick” the skin. The needles are strategically inserted at specific acupuncture points to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Once the needles are in place, they remain in the skin for about 20 to 30 minutes, and the sensation may even fade entirely as your body begins to relax and heal.

Myth #2: Acupuncture is only for pain relief.

Truth: Acupuncture treats much more than just pain, including stress, insomnia, digestion, and more.

Another misconception about acupuncture is that it is only effective for pain management. While acupuncture is indeed widely used to treat various types of pain—such as chronic back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and migraines—it has many other health benefits that go far beyond pain relief.

Acupuncture is also highly effective in treating conditions such as:

• Stress and Anxiety: Acupuncture helps regulate the body’s stress response by stimulating the release of endorphins (the body’s natural feel-good hormones). It also promotes relaxation, helping the body manage stress more effectively.

• Insomnia and Sleep Disorders: Acupuncture can help regulate the body’s sleep patterns by calming the nervous system and promoting restful sleep. It can be especially helpful for those struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality.

• Digestive Issues: Acupuncture is frequently used to treat digestive issues like bloating, constipation, acid reflux, and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture can help regulate the digestive system, improve metabolism, and alleviate discomfort.

• Emotional Wellness: Acupuncture can help address emotional imbalances, such as feelings of frustration, depression, or irritability. It works by promoting overall emotional well-being and helping the body and mind achieve a sense of balance.

In addition to these conditions, acupuncture can also support general wellness, strengthen the immune system, improve circulation, and promote energy and vitality.

Myth #3: Acupuncture is unproven.

Truth: Acupuncture is supported by research and clinical evidence.

While acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years in traditional medicine, one common myth is that it lacks scientific backing. However, modern research has proven that acupuncture is not only effective but also supported by scientific evidence.

Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture can help with various conditions, from pain management to stress reduction. For example, a 2012 study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that acupuncture was effective for chronic pain relief, particularly for conditions like osteoarthritis, back pain, and migraines. A review of 29 clinical trials concluded that acupuncture significantly reduced pain and improved function for people with osteoarthritis.

In addition to pain relief, acupuncture has been shown to help with a variety of other health conditions, including insomnia, anxiety, digestive issues, and even addiction. Acupuncture has also been incorporated into modern medicine, with many hospitals and health centers offering acupuncture as a complementary treatment for conditions such as cancer-related pain or post-surgery recovery.

In short, acupuncture is far from “unproven.” It is a treatment modality supported by both centuries of practice and modern scientific research.

Myth #4: Only certain people can benefit from acupuncture.

Truth: Acupuncture is safe for all ages and health conditions.

Some people believe that acupuncture is only effective or appropriate for certain individuals or conditions. This is far from the truth. In reality, acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for people of all ages—from infants to the elderly—and can address a wide variety of health concerns.

Acupuncture is often used to treat children with conditions like asthma, allergies, or digestive issues. For example, pediatric acupuncture is gentle and uses smaller needles, making it appropriate for children. It can be incredibly helpful in treating conditions that may not respond well to conventional medicine, such as colic, sleep disturbances, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

For adults, acupuncture can support everything from chronic pain management to stress relief, insomnia, and reproductive health. It can also complement other treatments for serious illnesses, such as cancer or autoimmune disorders, by boosting energy levels and improving overall well-being.

Acupuncture is also a great treatment option for the elderly, helping to alleviate conditions like arthritis, joint pain, or mobility issues. Because acupuncture is a natural, non-invasive therapy, it has minimal side effects and can be an excellent choice for individuals seeking alternative treatments for various health concerns.

Myth #5: You need endless treatments.

Truth: Many people see improvement after just a few sessions.

A common myth about acupuncture is that you need to undergo endless sessions before you can see results. While acupuncture can be a long-term treatment for chronic conditions, many people experience significant relief after just a few sessions.

The number of acupuncture treatments required depends on the condition being treated, the severity of the symptoms, and the individual’s response to treatment. For acute conditions, such as an injury or recent pain, many people feel relief after just one or two sessions. Chronic conditions, such as long-standing back pain or stress, may require more frequent treatments, but significant progress is often seen within a few weeks.

At Hanbit Oriental Medical Clinic, we work with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan. After the initial consultation and assessment, we recommend the most effective treatment schedule based on the patient’s unique health needs.

Acupuncture and ICBC Claims: Recovery After an Accident

If you have been in a motor vehicle accident, acupuncture can be an incredibly helpful treatment to aid in your recovery. Many people experience pain, stiffness, and inflammation after accidents, whether due to whiplash, soft tissue injuries, or joint discomfort. Acupuncture can reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and relieve pain, helping you get back to normal faster.

Hanbit Oriental Medical Clinic accepts ICBC claims for acupuncture treatments, making it easier for you to access the care you need after an accident. Whether you're dealing with neck pain, back pain, or muscle stiffness from an injury, acupuncture is a non-invasive, effective therapy to support your recovery. Our team is here to work with you and your ICBC claim, ensuring that your rehabilitation process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Introducing Jaehong Park – Expert Acupuncturist

At Hanbit Oriental Medical Clinic, we are proud to have Jaehong Park, a highly skilled and experienced acupuncturist, leading our acupuncture treatments. Jaehong has extensive training in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture, and he is dedicated to providing personalized care to help patients achieve their health goals.

Jaehong Park’s approach combines traditional acupuncture techniques with modern practices, ensuring that each treatment is tailored to the individual needs of his patients. Whether you're dealing with pain, stress, or other health concerns, Jaehong uses his expertise to help guide your recovery and restore balance to your body.

With years of experience and a commitment to providing the highest level of care, Jaehong is a trusted practitioner who always puts his patients first. Whether you’re a new or returning patient, Jaehong is ready to support your wellness journey with safe, effective, and compassionate care.

Acupuncture offers a safe, effective, and natural approach to healing that has been used for thousands of years. Despite the common myths surrounding it, acupuncture is a versatile and scientifically supported treatment that benefits people of all ages and conditions. Whether you're seeking relief from pain, managing stress, or looking to improve your overall health, acupuncture may be the solution you've been looking for.

At Hanbit Oriental Medical Clinic, we’re here to help you experience the many benefits of acupuncture, whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic pain, or seeking to enhance your well-being. If you're interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We also accept ICBC claims for acupuncture treatments, making it easier for you to recover after an accident.