Acupuncture, the ancient practice of inserting needles into the body to relieve pain and treat various ailments, has become increasingly popular in recent years. But did you know that this seemingly harmless practice could lead to a life-threatening condition known as punctured lung, or pneumothorax? That’s right, acupuncture can be a real danger to your health, especially when performed by:
–non-acupuncturists
–unregistered acupuncturists
–inexperienced practitioners
Why is this the case, you ask? Well, these practitioners lack the necessary training and oversight required to minimize the risk of complications during acupuncture treatment. In many cases, they may not even be aware of the risks associated with acupuncture, let alone how to avoid them. They may not know how to properly locate acupuncture points, how deep to insert the needles, or how to avoid puncturing organs or blood vessels. This can lead to serious complications, including lung punctures causing pneumothorax.
But fear not, there is a solution! When the practitioner is registered AND has at least 5 years of experience, the risk of pneumothorax caused by acupuncture can be significantly reduced. These experienced and well-trained practitioners have the knowledge and experience to adjust the depth and angle of the needles to minimize the risk of pneumothorax and other complications. They also know how to properly identify contraindications for acupuncture, and how to respond to any adverse reactions or complications that may arise.
At Access Acupuncture, Christian & Julie are both registered with the Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine Association of Nova Scotia (ATCMANS). Christian has over 18 years of experience, & Julie has over 11.
But wait, there’s more! Did you know that it is ABSOLUTELY IMPOSSIBLE to experience pneumothorax when distal acupuncture, such as the highly effective Balance Method style of acupuncture practiced by Julie & Christian at Access Acupuncture, is used? That’s right; with this style of acupuncture, the needles are inserted into the arms, legs, and other parts of the body away from the chest and lungs, making pneumothorax an impossibility while providing great results.
So, there you have it: Acupuncture can be a dangerous practice, but with the right practitioner and the right style of acupuncture, you can avoid the risks and reap the benefits of this ancient healing practice. Don’t let fear hold you back from trying acupuncture, but be sure to do your research and choose a practitioner with the necessary qualifications and experience to ensure your safety and well-being!