Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has been practiced for thousands of years and is now integrated into modern healthcare settings worldwide as a powerful complementary therapy. The procedure involves the insertion of extremely thin, sterile, single-use needles into specific points on the body. It is a minimally invasive technique used to alleviate pain and to treat a wide range of health conditions. The primary goal of acupuncture is to stimulate the body's natural self-healing abilities, reduce inflammation, and promote physical and emotional well-being.

At Fortis Healthcare, acupuncture is offered as an evidence-informed therapy, often used in conjunction with conventional medical treatments, particularly in the fields of pain management, neurology, and rehabilitation. This guide provides a comprehensive exploration of acupuncture, from its philosophical roots and scientific mechanisms to the conditions it can help manage, what to expect during a session, and its role within an integrated approach to your health.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a therapeutic modality that involves the strategic placement of fine, sterile needles at specific anatomical locations on the skin, known as acupuncture points or acupoints. The practice is rooted in the complex theoretical framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which posits that health is the result of a harmonious balance of the complementary extremes of yin and yang of the life force known as Qi (pronounced chee).

This vital energy is believed to flow through pathways or meridians in the body. Illness is thought to arise when the flow of Qi is blocked or imbalanced. Acupuncture aims to unblock these obstructions and re-establish the free flow of Qi, thereby restoring balance and health.

From a modern biomedical perspective, the mechanisms of acupuncture are increasingly understood. The insertion of needles at specific points stimulates nerves, muscles, and connective tissues. This stimulation is believed to trigger a cascade of physiological responses within the central nervous system, leading to the release of the body's natural painkillers (endorphins and encephalins), neurotransmitters (like serotonin), and hormones.

These substances can alter pain perception, reduce inflammation, and positively influence the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, digestion, and blood pressure. Therefore, acupuncture is seen as a way to modulate the body's internal systems to promote healing and restore function.

The procedure is performed by a certified acupuncturist or a trained medical professional. The needles used are solid, hair-thin, and made from stainless steel. They are pre-sterilized and disposed of after a single use to ensure complete safety and prevent any risk of infection.

When is Acupuncture Recommended? (Clinical Applications)

Acupuncture is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other leading medical bodies as a beneficial treatment for a wide variety of conditions. It is most commonly sought for pain relief but has a much broader range of applications. It can be used as a standalone treatment for some conditions or, more frequently, as an adjunct to conventional medical care.

Chronic Pain Management

This is the most well-researched and accepted application of acupuncture.

• Chronic Lower Back Pain: Numerous clinical trials have shown acupuncture to be an effective treatment for reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic lower back pain, often performing better than standard care alone.
• Neck Pain: It is frequently used to alleviate chronic neck pain, including pain from cervical spondylosis or muscular tension.
• Osteoarthritis: Acupuncture can significantly reduce pain and stiffness, particularly in the knee, improving mobility and quality of life for those with osteoarthritis.
• Headaches and Migraines: It is a proven therapy for reducing the frequency and intensity of tension headaches and migraines and is recommended as a prophylactic (preventive) treatment.

Neurological and Musculoskeletal Disorders

• Fibromyalgia: By modulating pain pathways and improving sleep, acupuncture can help manage the widespread pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.
• Sciatica: It can help relieve the radiating nerve pain caused by sciatic nerve compression.
• Post-Operative Pain: Used in a hospital setting, acupuncture can reduce the need for opioid painkillers and manage pain effectively after surgery.
• Tennis Elbow: It can reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected tendon.

Gastrointestinal and Digestive Issues

• Nausea and Vomiting: Acupuncture is highly effective in managing nausea and vomiting resulting from chemotherapy, post-operative recovery, and morning sickness during pregnancy. The P6 (Neiguan) acupoint on the wrist is specifically recognized for this effect.

Mental and Emotional Well-being

• Anxiety and Stress: By regulating the autonomic nervous system and promoting the release of calming neurotransmitters, acupuncture can be a powerful tool for reducing stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.
• Insomnia: It can help improve sleep quality and duration by addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to sleeplessness.

Women's Health

• Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea): Acupuncture can provide significant relief from the pain associated with menstrual periods.
• Menopausal Symptoms: It may help reduce the severity and frequency of hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.

Understanding the Underlying Principles

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective

The foundation of acupuncture lies in the holistic philosophy of TCM, which views the human body as a microcosm of the larger universe, interconnected and in constant motion.

• Qi (Vital Energy): Qi is the life force that flows through all living things. In the body, it circulates through a network of meridians. Smooth and abundant flow of Qi is essential for health. Stagnation, deficiency, or excess of Qi leads to illness.
   
• Meridians: These are the invisible channels through which Qi circulates. There are 12 primary meridians, each associated with a specific organ system. The acupuncture points are specific locations along these meridians where the Qi is most accessible.
   
• Yin and Yang: This is the principle of dualism and balance. All things have yin (cool, dark, passive) and yang (hot, bright, active) aspects. Health is a dynamic balance between these two forces. Acupuncture aims to correct imbalances, for example, by tonifying a yin deficiency or sedating excess yang.
   
• Five Elements: This theory (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) provides another framework for understanding the relationships between the body's organs and the natural world, often used in diagnosis and treatment planning.

The Modern Scientific Perspective

Contemporary research has identified several plausible biological mechanisms that explain how acupuncture works.

• Neurotransmitter and Endorphin Release: The insertion of needles is believed to stimulate nerve fibers, sending signals to the brain and spinal cord. This triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural opiates, which block pain signals. It also influences other brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, affecting mood and well-being.
   
• The Gate Control Theory of Pain: This theory suggests that the nervous system can only process a limited number of sensory signals at once. The gentle stimulation from acupuncture needles is thought to close the gate on more intense pain signals, preventing them from reaching the brain.
   
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: Studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals (like cytokines) and increase the release of anti-inflammatory substances, helping to reduce swelling and inflammation locally and systemically.
   
• Increased Blood Circulation: The stimulation from acupuncture can cause local blood vessels to dilate, improving blood flow to the area. This increased circulation can bring oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues and help remove metabolic waste products, promoting faster healing.
   
• Autonomic Nervous System Regulation: Acupuncture has been shown to have a regulating effect on the autonomic nervous system, helping to shift the body from a fight-or-flight (sympathetic) state to a rest-and-digest (parasympathetic) state, which reduces stress and promotes relaxation.

Risk Factors & When to Consider Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a low-risk therapy when performed by a qualified professional. However, it is important to consider it under the right circumstances. You should consider acupuncture if:

• You suffer from a chronic condition, particularly chronic pain, and conventional treatments have not provided sufficient relief or have caused intolerable side effects.
• You are seeking a complementary therapy to support your primary medical treatment (e.g., to manage side effects of cancer treatment).
• You are looking for a non-pharmacological approach to manage conditions like anxiety, stress, or insomnia.
• You have been evaluated by a medical doctor to rule out any serious underlying conditions that may require urgent conventional medical intervention.

It is crucial to consult your primary physician before starting acupuncture, especially if you have a pacemaker, a bleeding disorder, are taking blood thinners, or are pregnant.

Our Specialists

At Fortis, acupuncture is integrated into our pain management and rehabilitation services, overseen by specialists dedicated to a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

Dr. Manjinder Singh Sandhu

CONSULTANT CARDIOLOGY | Fortis Vasant Kunj

Dr. Hardik Patel

CONSULTANT PHYSIOTHERAPY | Fortis Vashi

Ms. Imneet Bedi

PHYSIOTHERAPY INCHARGE | Fortis Shalimar Bagh

Patient Stories

“After two years of chronic lower back pain, I had almost given up hope. Physiotherapy helped, but the pain always returned. My doctor at Fortis suggested adding acupuncture to my treatment plan. I was skeptical, but the difference has been remarkable. The sessions are deeply relaxing, and over time, the constant, dull ache in my back has significantly diminished. It’s given me the ability to be more active and has truly improved my daily life”.  — V. Chauhan, 45, Gurugram

“I was suffering from debilitating migraines several times a month. The medications had side effects I found difficult to tolerate. I started acupuncture as a preventive measure. After a few months of regular sessions, the frequency of my migraines dropped dramatically, and when they do occur, they are far less intense. It has been an incredibly effective and gentle therapy for me, working alongside the care from my neurologist”.  — S. Balakrishnan, 38, Delhi

The Acupuncture Session: A Detailed Walkthrough

The Initial Consultation

Your first visit will be the longest, typically lasting 60 to 90 minutes. It involves a comprehensive assessment. Your practitioner will ask detailed questions about your main complaint, your overall health history, sleep patterns, digestion, and emotional state. They will also perform a physical examination and may use TCM diagnostic methods, such as examining your tongue and feeling your pulse at several locations on your wrist to assess the state of your Qi and organ systems.

Preparing for Your Session

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms, legs, and abdomen.
• Have a light meal or snack an hour or two before your appointment. It is not advisable to have a session on an empty stomach or after a very heavy meal.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and strenuous exercise for a few hours before and after your session.

What Happens During the Treatment

1. Positioning: You will be asked to lie down on a comfortable treatment table, either on your back, front, or side, depending on the points to be used.
2. Needle Insertion: The practitioner will swab the selected acupoints with alcohol. You will then feel the gentle insertion of the needles. The needles are extremely fine, so the sensation is often described as a tiny prick, a dull ache, or a tingling feeling (known as de qi, the arrival of Qi), but it is not typically painful. The number of needles used can vary from just a few to 20 or more.
3. Rest and Relaxation: Once the needles are in place, you will be left to rest quietly for 15 to 30 minutes. Most people find this period deeply relaxing, and many even fall asleep.
4. Needle Removal: The practitioner will return and gently remove the needles. There is usually no sensation or bleeding upon removal.

Follow-up Sessions

Subsequent sessions are shorter, usually lasting 30 to 45 minutes. The number and frequency of treatments will depend on your condition. Acute problems may resolve in just a few sessions, while chronic conditions often require a longer course of treatment, perhaps one or two sessions per week for several weeks, followed by less frequent maintenance sessions.

After the Procedure: What to Expect

Immediately after a session, many people feel a sense of calm and relaxation. Some feel energized. It's important to take it easy for the rest of the day to allow your body to integrate the treatment. You may notice an immediate improvement in your symptoms, or the effects may become more apparent over the next few days. For chronic conditions, the therapeutic effects are cumulative, building with each successive treatment. Occasionally, symptoms may feel slightly worse for a day or two before they begin to improve, which can be a normal part of the healing process.

Risks & Safety Profile

When performed by a trained and certified practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture is an extremely safe procedure with very few side effects.

• Minimal Side Effects: The most common side effects are minor and temporary, including slight bleeding or bruising at the needle sites, or feeling lightheaded for a short time after the session.
• Safety with Precautions: It is vital to inform your practitioner of your full medical history. If you have a bleeding disorder, are on blood thinners, or have a pacemaker, the practitioner will take specific precautions. Acupuncture is also adapted carefully for pregnant women.
• Importance of a Qualified Practitioner: The risk of serious adverse events, such as infection or organ injury, is exceptionally low but is almost always associated with improperly trained practitioners or the use of non-sterile needles. At a reputable medical facility like Fortis, these risks are virtually eliminated.

Benefits of Acupuncture

The benefits of acupuncture extend beyond the treatment of specific symptoms.

• Effective Pain Relief: Provides a non-pharmacological option for managing acute and chronic pain.
• Reduced Reliance on Medication: Can help lower the required dosage of pain medications, reducing their potential side effects.
• Holistic Approach: Treats the entire person—mind and body—not just the isolated symptom.
• Stress Reduction: Promotes deep relaxation and can improve resilience to stress.
• Improved Sleep: Often leads to better sleep quality and duration.
• Enhanced Energy and Well-being: Many patients report an overall improvement in their sense of vitality and well-being.

Myths vs Facts

Take the Next Step

If you are living with a chronic condition, particularly one involving pain, and are seeking a safe, effective, and holistic therapy to complement your current medical care, acupuncture may be a valuable option for you. It offers a path to not only manage your symptoms but also enhance your body's innate capacity for healing and improve your overall quality of life.

Our team of specialists in pain management and rehabilitation can provide a thorough assessment to determine if acupuncture is an appropriate part of your personalized treatment plan.

CTA: Book a Pain Management Consultation | Get a Second Opinion

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many sessions will I need?

Ans. The number of sessions varies widely depending on your condition. For an acute issue like a sprain, 2-4 sessions might be sufficient. For a chronic condition like migraines or lower back pain, a course of 8-12 sessions over several weeks is common to see significant results.

2. Is acupuncture covered by health insurance?

Ans. Coverage for acupuncture in India is still evolving and varies significantly between insurance providers and specific policies. It is often covered when prescribed by a physician as part of a pain management or physiotherapy program. We advise you to check directly with your insurance provider.

3. What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

Ans. While both use thin needles, their philosophies are different. Dry needling is a modern technique based on Western anatomy, where needles are inserted into muscular trigger points to relieve pain and tension. Acupuncture is a holistic system based on TCM principles of meridians and Qi.

4. Can children receive acupuncture?

Ans. Yes, acupuncture can be very effective for children and is used to treat conditions like pain, digestive issues, and anxiety. Practitioners who treat children use special, gentle techniques and often use fewer needles for a shorter duration.

5. What qualifications should an acupuncturist have?

Ans. A qualified acupuncturist should have completed a comprehensive training program from a recognized institution and be certified. In a hospital setting like Fortis, practitioners are credentialed medical professionals (such as doctors or physiotherapists) who have undergone specialized, certified training in medical acupuncture.

6. I am afraid of needles. Can I still have acupuncture?

Ans. Acupuncture needles are unlike the hypodermic needles used for injections; they are solid, flexible, and extremely thin. Many people with a fear of needles are pleasantly surprised at how comfortable the experience is. It's important to communicate your fear to your practitioner so they can take extra care to ensure you are at ease.

7. Can acupuncture help with weight loss?

Ans. Acupuncture is not a magic cure for weight loss, but it can be a supportive therapy. It can help by regulating metabolism, reducing appetite and cravings, and addressing the stress and anxiety that can lead to overeating. It is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan.

8. Are there any activities I should avoid after a session?

Ans. It is generally recommended to avoid strenuous exercise, heavy meals, and alcohol for at least a few hours after your treatment to allow your body to fully process the session and maximize its benefits.