Acupuncture can be useful in treating pain

DEAR DOCTOR K: A friend keeps telling me to try acupuncture for my low back pain. But I don’t understand how a bunch of needles will help. Can you explain how acupuncture works?

DEAR READER: Acupuncture is a technique of traditional Chinese medicine. The theory is that the body maintains a delicate balance of two opposing forces. Disease occurs when these forces are out of balance. This imbalance is believed to block the flow of vital energy. This energy regulates spiritual, emotional, mental and physical balance.

The Chinese believe that by inserting thin needles at specific points on the body, acupuncture unblocks the flow of vital energy.

Acupuncture is used for a wide variety of complaints. These include chronic pain, headaches, side effects of cancer treatment, addiction and hot flashes. Acupuncture may be used on its own, or it can complement Western medicine.

During your first appointment, your practitioner will ask detailed questions about your health, lifestyle and behaviors. These questions will range far beyond your specific symptoms. This is in keeping with the mind-body nature of traditional Chinese medicine.

Be sure to tell your acupuncturist about all of your medical conditions, all medications and other treatments you are receiving. (On the flip side, also tell your doctor you are having acupuncture treatment.)

During treatment, the acupuncturist swabs each puncture site with alcohol to disinfect it. He or she then inserts the acupuncture needles at various locations on your body. You should feel no or minimal discomfort as the needles are inserted. Most people either feel relaxed or energized when the needles go in.

The needles are metallic, solid and hair-thin.

After treatment, you may have bleeding, soreness or bruising where the needles were inserted.

If you decide to try acupuncture, choose a licensed acupuncturist. But keep in mind that licensure is never a guarantee of good quality.