Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice that places thin, sterile needles into strategic points of the body. While acupuncture can be performed on specific areas, full body acupuncture takes a more comprehensive approach by stimulating multiple acupuncture points along different meridian lines simultaneously [1]. Here is a closer look at full body acupuncture, including how it works, benefits, what to expect, and more.
How Does Full Body Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture works by utilizing the concept of qi (pronounced “chee”), the body’s vital life force or energy flow [2]. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), blockages or imbalances in qi are what lead to illness. Full body acupuncture aims to restore balance by inserting needles at acupoints along the body’s 14 main meridian lines [3]. This stimulates the nervous system to release natural chemicals like endorphins that mediate pain relief and healing responses.
Also read: Foot Acupuncture: Benefits, Techniques, and How It Works
Benefits of Full Body Acupuncture
Full body acupuncture provides both local relief from conditions like back pain and systemic benefits through its holistic approach:
- Stress relief: Needling calms the nervous system and boosts relaxation [4].
- Pain management: Endorphin release helps lessen many types of pain [5].
- Improved energy: Balanced qi leads to increased stamina and less fatigue.
- Detox support: Boosted lymphatic drainage aids the removal of metabolic waste [6].
- Emotional wellness: Regulated mood and reduced anxiety are common outcomes [7].
What to Expect From a Full Body Treatment
Most practitioners insert 15-30 needles, depending on the patient’s needs and tolerance level [8]. Small, hair-thin needles may cause slight pinpricks when placed but typically do not cause pain during treatment. Patients lie down fully clothed on a massage table and relax while needles are gently manipulated. Treatments last 30-60 minutes, usually once or twice weekly for 4-6 sessions [9]. Side effects are minor if any.
Also read: Acupuncture for Cluster Headaches: A Comprehensive Guide
Is Full Body Acupuncture Safe and Effective?
When performed by trained professionals, acupuncture has an excellent safety record and few risks if done properly [10]. Multiple clinical trials have found acupuncture helpful for dozens of conditions [11]. Although more research is still being conducted, its holistic nature makes full body acupuncture a promising supplement or alternative for stress relief, pain management, and general wellness support when used alongside a healthy lifestyle.
Bottom line
In summary, full body acupuncture provides a natural way to boost overall health through its balancing effects on energy flow pathways. As a non-invasive treatment, it presents little downside while offering significant potential upside for managing stress, pain and promoting well-being. Consult a licensed acupuncturist to see if this approach makes sense as part of your self-care routine.
References:
[1] https://fammed.wisc.edu/integrative-medicine/clinical-care/acupuncture/types-acupuncture/
[2] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/acupuncture
[3] https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/aging/complementary-and-alternative-medicine-for-older-people/acupuncture
[4] https://www.acumedico.com/blog/benefits-of-acupuncture
[5] https://nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture-in-depth
[6] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/acupuncture
[7] https://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/acupuncture
[8] https://www.aad.org/public/treatments/complementary-therapies/acupuncture/what-to-expect
[9] https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/treatment/acupuncture
[10] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/acupuncture
[11] https://www.ars.usda.gov/oc/br/rodale/2001/rodale01/rodale2001.pdf
