
What Is Acupuncture?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture has been a time-tested technique for diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses for thousands of years. This practice involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints.
In TCM, the human body is seen as an intricate network of energy pathways called meridians, through which vital energy, or Qi, flows. Qi is essential for maintaining health, and any disruption or imbalance in its flow can lead to illness. The balance between Yin and Yang, two complementary forces in the body, is crucial for maintaining this flow and overall health.

What Health Conditions Can Acupuncture Manage?
Acupuncture is used to manage a variety of health conditions and issues. Here are some of the most common:
● Pain-related issues, such as chronic pain, headaches, migraines, neck pain, back pain, knee pain, and pain from arthritis.
● Neurological issues, including headache, stroke rehabilitation, depression, and insomnia.
● Ear, nose, and throat issues, such as hay fever, acute sinusitis, cold and flu, and asthma.
● Gastrointestinal conditions like biliary colic, dysentery, and gastritis.
● Women’s health, such as primary dysmenorrhoea, malposition of foetus, induction of labour, and fertility issues.
● Musculoskeletal conditions like frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, and arthritis.
● Cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension and hypotension.
● Dermatological conditions, including eczema, rashes, and itchy skin.
● Digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea and vomiting, and constipation.
● Respiratory conditions, as some studies have shown that acupuncture may be helpful for respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies.
● Neurological conditions, which acupuncture may be helpful for conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
● Women’s health issues such as menstrual cramps, irregular periods, and enhance fertility may be improved with acupuncture.

What Are the Benefits of Acupuncture?
Acupuncture offers a range of potential benefits, including:
● Restoring a Healthy Balance of Yin and Yang – Acupuncture can stimulate specific points along the meridians to help regulate the body’s functions and restore a balanced state of yin and yang.
● Clearing Blockage Within the Meridians and Strengthening Vital Qi – By inserting needles at the specific acupoints, acupuncture can help clear blockages or imbalances in qi and promote smooth flow.
● Boosting the Immune System – A balanced flow of qi through acupuncture helps strengthen the immune system’s ability to fight off infections, illnesses, and allergens.
● Supporting Healing – Acupuncture can accelerate the body’s healing processes and manage a wide array of health concerns.
● Complementing Other Treatments – Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy to boost the effectiveness of medical treatments and physiotherapy.

Types of Acupuncture in Kuala Lumpur
Acupuncture has many branches, each with a slightly different approach. Here are two of the most common types of acupuncture:
● Traditional Acupuncture – It involves the use of thin, sterile needles to stimulate acupuncture points on the body. This type of acupuncture focuses on restoring the balance of yin and yang, clearing blockages, and promoting the flow of Qi.
● Laser Acupuncture – It uses nonthermal, low-intensity laser irradiation to stimulate acupuncture points on the body. The laser light is non-invasive and painless, making it preferable for people who are sensitive to needles or want a needle-free procedure.
How to Prepare for Acupuncture
● Take Proper Rest – Focus on relaxing to prepare your mind during the session as being mentally calm is crucial to enhance the benefits of the treatment.
● Stay Hydrated – Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins from the body, allowing for better energy absorption during the treatment.
● Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine – Alcohol and coffee can make acupuncture patients feel lethargic and restless, interfering with the effectiveness of the treatment.
● Do Not Eat Heavy Meals – Opt for a light snack to avoid feeling full or uncomfortable during treatment.
● Wear Loose Clothes – Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing makes it easier for the acupuncturist to access specific points in the body that need to be stimulated with needles.
● Communicate with Your Acupuncturist – For first-time patients, please let your acupuncturist know about any medications you’re taking and any medical conditions you have.

Acupuncture Aftercare Tips
Do:
● Rest and Relax – Prioritise relaxation after acupuncture to have a fast track of energy recharge for the body.
● Eat Well and Stay Hydrated – Eating healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and staying hydrated supports the body’s healing process and energy levels.
● Monitor Your Body – Note down any changes in your sleeping pattern, energy levels, appetite, bowel movement, and any new pain sites.
● Stay in the Shade – Stay in a warm, shaded area to support the therapeutic effects of acupuncture and promote overall healing.
Avoid:
● Drinking Coffee or Alcohol – Avoid drinking coffee or alcohol for a few hours after acupuncture as these substances can interfere with the calming effects of the treatment.
● Swimming – Refrain from swimming, especially in cold water as it can disrupt the flow of Qi and counteract the treatment’s benefits.
● Engaging in Intense Physical Activities – Heavy or intense physical activities can strain the body and potentially interfere with the treatment’s benefits.
● Hot Showers, Saunas, or Hot Baths: Excessive heat can overstimulate the body and potentially counteract the calming effects of acupuncture.
● Driving if Lightheaded – Avoid driving if you feel lightheaded or dizzy after the acupuncture session as this compromises your safety.
What Are the Risks or Complications Associated with Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is regarded as a safe practice when conducted by TCM professionals. Minor soreness and bruising at the needle insertion sites are the most common side effects. Generally, acupuncture does not lead to bleeding, scarring, or marking, as the needles used are extremely fine.
The therapeutic benefits of acupuncture are vast, and it is often used in conjunction with other TCM practices, such as herbal medicine, to achieve optimal health outcomes. If you want to explore the potential benefits of acupuncture treatment, consult with our KKM qualified and licensed TCM practitioners in MyTCM. With our skills and experience in acupuncture, we can guide your healing journey to improve your health without any worries. Book a consultation today!

FAQs on Acupuncture
Can you combine acupuncture with other services?
Yes, acupuncture can be combined with other services such as moxibustion and cupping therapy to enhance treatment outcomes.
Can acupuncture treat fertility issues?
Yes, acupuncture can be used to enhance fertility and support assisted reproductive therapy (ART) methods such as in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). Contact us to learn about our treatment options.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally very safe, especially in the hands of qualified and experienced practitioners. At MyTCM & Acupuncture Centre, we use disposable and disinfected needles to avoid infections and ensure the safety of our patients.
How many acupuncture sessions do I need?
The optimal number of treatments varies greatly depending on the condition being treated and its severity. Typically, it can take about 4-6 sessions to achieve the treatment’s therapeutic benefits.