Acupuncture: Is Longer Needle Retention Better? The Truth Might Surprise You!

Acupuncture, a "star therapy" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), attracts more and more people with its unique efficacy and safety. However, many who undergo acupuncture often wonder: Is it true that the longer the needles are retained, the better the effect?

🔍 Needle Retention Time: Not Necessarily "The Longer, The Better"!

Needle retention time in acupuncture refers to the period the needles remain in the body after being inserted into acupoints. Many mistakenly believe that longer retention leads to better results, but this is a misconception!

TCM emphasizes "individualized treatment" based on the patient's constitution and condition. The duration of needle retention depends on the patient's constitution, severity of the illness, characteristics of the acupoints, and the treatment goals. It's not a one-size-fits-all approach.

🌟 Key Factors Influencing Needle Retention Time

1. Severity of Illness:

   • For milder conditions or shorter illness durations, needle retention is generally shorter, typically 10-20 minutes.

   • For more severe or chronic conditions, retention time might be appropriately extended, but generally no longer than 30 minutes.

     
     

2. Individual Constitution:

   • Individuals with a stronger constitution and abundant Qi and Blood can tolerate slightly longer retention times.

   • For those with a weaker constitution or deficient Qi and Blood, retention time should be shortened to avoid depleting their vital energy (正气).

     
     

3. Acupoint Characteristics:

   • Some acupoints are highly sensitive to stimulation, so retention time should not be too long. For example, acupoints on the head and face are usually retained for 5-10 minutes.

   • For areas with thicker muscles like the limbs, lower back, and upper back, retention time can be slightly longer.

     
     

4. Treatment Goal:

   • For acute pain (like sprains or headaches), shorter retention times can quickly unblock meridians and relieve pain.

   • For chronic condition management (like Spleen and Stomach weakness or insomnia), retention time can be appropriately extended to enhance therapeutic effects.

⚠️ Potential Risks of Excessive Needle Retention

While acupuncture is a safe and effective therapy, retaining needles for too long can lead to the following issues:

• Depletion of Vital Energy (耗伤正气): 

  Prolonged needle retention can lead to the depletion of Qi and Blood, especially in individuals with weaker constitutions, potentially causing fatigue, dizziness, or other discomforts.

  
  

• Local Discomfort (局部不适): 

  Retaining needles for too long in certain sensitive acupoints might cause local soreness, swelling, pain, or even bruising.

  
  

• Reduced Efficacy (疗效下降): 

  Excessive retention time can lead to the body adapting to the needle sensation, paradoxically reducing the therapeutic effect.

🌿 How to Determine the Optimal Needle Retention Time?

1. Follow Your Practitioner's Advice: 

   The key to acupuncture treatment lies in "differential diagnosis and individualized treatment" (辨证施治). A qualified acupuncturist will tailor the treatment plan, including needle retention time, to your specific condition. Therefore, always choose a licensed TCM clinic for professional treatment.

   
   

2. Pay Attention to Your Own Sensations: 

   During the retention period, if you experience any significant discomfort (e.g., heart palpitations, dizziness, nausea), immediately inform your practitioner so they can adjust the retention time or remove the needles.

   
   

3. Avoid Blindly Seeking "Longer" Sessions: 

   The effectiveness of acupuncture does not depend on the length of needle retention. Instead, it relies on the selection of acupoints, the technique used, and the specificity of the treatment. Therefore, do not blindly pursue longer retention times.

💡 Tips: Post-Acupuncture Precautions

• Avoid immediately showering or exposing yourself to drafts after acupuncture to prevent catching a cold.

• Get adequate rest and avoid strenuous exercise.

• Maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or greasy foods.

The optimal needle retention time in acupuncture is not "the longer, the better." Instead, it needs to be adjusted flexibly based on individual circumstances. Only by receiving scientific and standardized acupuncture treatment can its best therapeutic effects be achieved! 🌿✨

If you still have questions about acupuncture treatment, feel free to leave a comment, and we'll provide professional answers! 📩💬 Follow us for more TCM wellness knowledge and to safeguard your health! 🌱

Written By: Jesiie, TCM Practitioner.