We started practicing the Balance Method exclusively in 2012. Since then, we stopped using our electro-acupuncture device and placed it in our waiting room to show/discuss with our patients about the risks of electro-acupuncture. After speaking with one of my patients last week, I realised how little patients know about the the subject.
Electro-acupuncture is a form of acupuncture that uses a small electric current to stimulate the needles during treatment. It is very popular among physiotherapists and other practitioners who perform dry needling. While this method can be effective for treating some conditions, it also poses certain risks that practitioners and patients should be aware of. One such risk is the potential for the needle attached to the positive lead to become brittle through electrolytic degradation. Electrolytic degradation occurs when an electric current is passed through a metal, causing it to corrode and weaken. In the case of electro-acupuncture, the needle attached to the positive lead is most susceptible to this type of degradation. Over time, the needle may become brittle and break, which can be extremely dangerous for the patient, causing a medical emergency!
Patients should be made aware of the potential risks of electrolytic degradation and should discuss this with their practitioner before undergoing electro-acupuncture treatment.
At Access Acupuncture, the system of acupuncture we practice does not require electro-acupuncture to be used. In fact, we provide our patients with results equal or superior to those achieved with electro-acupuncture!