What does it mean when acupuncture points bleed?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and alleviate various conditions. While generally considered safe, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects, including bleeding at acupuncture points.

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind bleeding during acupuncture, its potential benefits, and address common questions related to acupuncture.

Why Do Acupuncture Points Bleed?

Bleeding during acupuncture is not uncommon, as many blood vessels lie beneath the skin’s surface.

When a needle hits a blood vessel, whether it be a vein or artery, it may cause a pinching sensation, accompanied by minor bleeding.

The bleeding is usually manageable, and therapists apply pressure to the wound after needle removal to stop the bleeding [1].

Although it looks scary, the slender acupuncture tools generally cannot cause serious harm, so don’t worry!

The Bleeding Method in Acupuncture

In certain acupuncture practices, bloodletting is intentionally performed as part of the treatment process [8]. This involves pressing the acupuncture site to initiate blood accumulation, followed by disinfection with iodine volt.

The process aims to achieve specific therapeutic benefits, including reducing iron levels and infectious agents in the body, potentially lowering the risk of cancer [2].

Who is it for?

• Pain Relief: If you have painful nodules or areas that are red, swollen, and warm, you can try pricking those spots and then using cupping. This technique helps to remove stagnation, promote new circulation, and clear the meridians.
• Fever and Sore Throat: Prick the “Jing” point on your thumb to release a few drops of blood. This point is linked to the lung meridian and can help disperse heat and relieve symptoms.
• Styes: Pricking the corresponding points on the back or the tips of the ears can also help release heat, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain.

What should you be aware of?

• Avoid getting the pricked area wet for a short period. Keep it clean to prevent infection.
• It’s normal to see some bruising after the procedure, and applying a warm compress can help it fade faster.

Who should avoid it?

• People with conditions like thrombocytopenia, those taking blood thinners, or anyone prone to bleeding should not try this. It’s also not recommended for those who faint easily or have vascular tumors.
• Individuals who are anemic, have low blood pressure, are pregnant, or are overly hungry, full, or fatigued should avoid this treatment.
• If a doctor determines through examination that you have a deficiency condition or are generally weak, this method should not be used [10].

Potential Negative Side Effects of Acupuncture

While bleeding is a common side effect, other adverse effects associated with acupuncture may include hitting a nerve or causing pain. Using higher-gauge needles, inserting needles more deeply, or employing specific brands of needles can contribute to discomfort [9].

It’s crucial to seek treatment from licensed and experienced acupuncturists to minimize the risk of adverse effects [3].

Benefits of Bloodletting Acupuncture

Bloodletting acupuncture is believed to offer several health benefits. It may help stave off illness by reducing iron levels and infectious agents in the body.

Additionally, some proponents suggest that bloodletting treatment could potentially lower the risk of cancer [4].

Nevertheless, bloodletting is always a dangerous act, so please do not try it yourself at home!

Forbidden Acupuncture Points

Certain acupuncture points are considered contraindicated in specific situations. For instance, points LI 4, SP 6, UB 60, 67, and sacral foraminal points B 31, 32, 33, 34 are generally avoided during pregnancy.

Acupuncture should also be used cautiously with patients who have uncontrolled movements [5].

Assessing the Effectiveness of Acupuncture

Determining whether acupuncture is working involves monitoring short-term effects. Slight improvements in symptoms are a positive sign, although paradoxically, a temporary worsening of symptoms may also occur.

This phenomenon is not necessarily a negative sign but rather a part of the body’s response to the treatment [6].

Understanding Blockages in Acupuncture

In Chinese medicine, blockages in the meridian system are considered a malfunction leading to an absence of connection.

Acupuncture aims to restore the flow and integrative properties of the meridian system, addressing these blockages and promoting overall well-being [7].

Acupuncture Points to Stop Bleeding

In specific medical situations, acupuncture points like Tian-Ping, also known as the “Scale point,” may be utilized to address bleeding, such as post-operative bleeding or hemoabdomen.

Dry needling at this point, located on the dorsal midline between T13-L1, is thought to be effective in managing bleeding.

Conclusion

Acupuncture, a centuries-old practice, continues to be a widely used alternative therapy. While bleeding at acupuncture points can occur, it is often a manageable and expected side effect.

Understanding the potential benefits, contraindications, and the body’s response to acupuncture can help individuals make informed decisions about this holistic approach to health and wellness.