Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine that has been practiced for centuries. It involves the insertion of thin needles into the skin to stimulate specific points on and around the body. Acupuncture is used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including chronic pain, mental health disorders, and digestive issues, among many other conditions. While acupuncture is generally considered safe, acupuncturists must take the proper steps to ensure they are using the clean needle technique. This, in return, prevents cross-contamination and infections and ensures that they use clean, sterile, single-use needles for the patient's benefit.
The clean needle technique refers to keeping needles and other medical equipment clean and free from contaminants. This is especially important in acupuncture, where needles are inserted into the skin, as contamination may lead to infection. Single-use needles are essential to the clean needle technique, as they are designed to be used only once before being disposed of in the appropriate hazmat container. This helps to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and microbes from one person to another. At Acute Acupuncture, we only use single-use acupuncture needles, sheets are changed after each patient, surfaces are wiped down after each patient, and we wash our hands or use sterilizing gel.
Aseptic treatment is another critical part of preventing infections in acupuncture. This involves ensuring the treatment area is clean and free from bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other pathogens. For example, the treatment area should be disinfected before and after each session, and the practitioner may want to wear gloves and other protective gear to prevent the spread of microbes. Acute Acupuncture uses gloves depending on the body area being used, and the area may also be swabbed with alcohol or iodine before being needled.
Microbes are microscopic organisms that may cause infections. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, among others. In acupuncture, microbes can be introduced through contaminated needles or breaks in the skin caused by needle insertion. This is why using clean and sterile single-use needles and taking preventative steps to prevent infections or outbreaks is essential. Acute Acupuncture takes a proactive approach to hygiene and the correct preventative steps to ensure that we have done everything we can do for our patients.
Preventing infections through acupuncture is a serious matter, not just for COVID-19, and it requires a methodical approach. Practitioners must be aware of the contamination risks and take the proper steps to prevent or minimize the spread of microbes in the clinic. This includes using single-use needles, practicing aseptic techniques, and following strict hygiene protocols in the acupuncture clinic. Patients may also be able to play a vital role in preventing infections. First, they can choose a well-trained, reputable, and experienced practitioner like the practitioner at Acute Acupuncture. The next step is to ask questions until you feel confident in the practitioner you are visiting, asking about their sterilization practices, how often the clinic may change their towels or sheets or linens, the last time they wiped down the surfaces in the clinic, and when was the last time that they washed their hands or used sterilizing gel.
Acupuncture is a valuable alternative medicine that may help treat a wide variety of conditions. However, it is vital to take the proper precautions to prevent infections and ensure that the needles used are clean, sterile, and single-use. Clean needle technique, single-use needles, aseptic treatment, and awareness of microbes are all essential to preventing infections in acupuncture. By taking these steps, we can ensure that acupuncture remains safe and effective for all patients. Acupuncture has a long-standing history, and a growing body of evidence highlights its potential as a valuable treatment option that promotes overall health and well-being. However, it's important to note that acupuncture should always be performed by a licensed and trained practitioner. After treatments, one may feel relaxed, energized, and rejuvenated. Communicating with your practitioner about your experience is essential to ensure you receive the maximum benefits from these treatments. Click the button below and book a complementary 15-minute consultation at Acute Acupuncture, 163 The Terrace, Wellington Central, Wellington. Let's discuss if acupuncture is the right thing for you. Thank you for taking the time to read this Blog Post. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this post with others. If you have any questions or concerns, check out Acute-Acupuncture Wellington Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), as we find this helps answer most people's questions. Please leave a comment below.