"10 Common Myths About Acupuncture (and the Truth Behind Them)”

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to support health and wellness. Despite its longevity and growing popularity, misconceptions about acupuncture still abound in the West. At Harmon Acupuncture in Omaha, Nebraska, I like to demystify myths that our Western culture made up,  so that people feel confident and comfortable with their treatment choices. Let’s debunk 10 of the most common myths about acupuncture, and uncover the real benefits it can offer.

1. Myth: Acupuncture Hurts Because It Involves Needles

Truth: While acupuncture does involve needles, they are incredibly thin—much finer than hypodermic syringes used for injections or blood draws. Most people may feel  a tiny prick, if anything at all, when a needle is inserted. Many people describe the sensation as a mild tingling or warmth, or a dull, achy feeling, or a little “starburst”, or energy flowing down a pathway. Acupuncture is not completely sensationless, nor would we want it to be! It’s a radical medicine, and radical medicine can include a little discomfort. After needles are inserted, I leave you to rest with the them in. Many clients feel so relaxed that they fall asleep during the session.

2. Myth: Acupuncture is Just a Placebo

Truth: Numerous scientific studies show that acupuncture produces physiological changes in the body. It stimulates the nervous system, releases endorphins (natural painkillers), and affects areas of the brain associated with stress and pain, among many many other things. Acupuncture continues to demonstrate measurable effects beyond what a placebo could achieve. Acupuncture prods the body to heal itself.

3. Myth: Acupuncture Is Only for Pain Relief

Truth: While acupuncture is widely known for its ability to relieve pain, it can address a much broader range of conditions. Acupuncture can help manage stress, improve digestion, support immune function, balance hormones, enhance sleep, and more. At Harmon Acupuncture, I treat clients for many concerns beyond pain, including anxiety, allergies, fertility issues, fatigue, depression, and symptoms that can’t be diagnosed by Western Medicine..

4. Myth: You Need to Believe in Acupuncture for It to Work

Truth: Acupuncture works whether or not you believe in it. It’s not about belief; it’s about biological responses. Acupuncture stimulates specific points in the body, activating the nervous system and promoting the release of natural chemicals that support healing. Many people come to acupuncture with skepticism but end up experiencing real benefits. It works on babies and animals! 

5. Myth: Acupuncture is Unsafe

Truth: Acupuncture is extremely safe when performed by a licensed Acupuncturists like Elizabeth Harmon. At Harmon Acupuncture, I use single-use, sterile needles, minimizing the risk of negative reactions infection or other complications. Side effects are rare, with most people experiencing only mild effects like slight bruising or soreness at the needle site.

6. Myth: Acupuncture is Just for Adults

Truth: Acupuncture can benefit people of all ages, from babies to seniors. Pediatric acupuncture is typically performed with fewer or no needles, using gentle techniques like acupressure or other tools to stimulate points safely. Whether dealing with a child’s anxiety, an adult’s stress, or a senior’s joint pain, acupuncture can be adapted to suit each person’s unique needs.

7. Myth: Acupuncture Works Instantly

Truth: Although some people feel immediate relief after a session, acupuncture sometimes requires multiple treatments to achieve lasting results, especially for chronic conditions. Acupuncture is a process that helps the body heal itself over time. Sometimes people feel a big change on the table during a session, while others notice an improvement in symptoms a few days after treatment.

8. Myth: Acupuncture and Dry Needling are the Same

Truth: While acupuncture and dry needling both use needles, they are not the same practice. Dry needling is a stand-alone technique used by some practitioners (like PT’s or Chiropractors) to relieve muscle tension, focusing solely on trigger points in the muscle. Acupuncture, rooted in Classical and Traditional Chinese Medicine, considers the entire body’s energy pathways and aims to balance Qi (energy) across systems, open the channels associated with symptoms, not just muscles. I often combine western physical medicine’s Myofascial Pain and Trigger Point Therapy with Acupuncture’s channel theory and TCM’s system, with the intention of reaping the benefits of a mix of styles.

9. Myth: Acupuncture Can Only Help Physical Symptoms

Truth: Acupuncture can support mental and emotional well-being as well as physical health. Research shows that acupuncture can relieve stress, anxiety, and depression by regulating the nervous system and encouraging the release of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters. Many clients report feeling more centered, regulated, and emotionally balanced after regular treatments. “ I feel more responsive than reactive”, said more than one client.

10. Myth: You Need to See an Acupuncturist Weekly for It to Work

Truth: While weekly sessions may benefit some people, the frequency of acupuncture treatments depends on your individual needs. Acute issues might require more frequent sessions at first, but chronic conditions might benefit from less frequent, ongoing maintenance. I always meet clients right where they are. I’m not pushy about course of treatment for several reasons: Time and finances are issues, as well as desire to receive treatment. I like to put the responsibility and authority back on the client and let them decide when to return, if at all. I do however, educate people about what has worked well, in my experience in private practice for 25 years. Together, we can develop a personalized treatment plan that suits your health goals and lifestyle, so you get the optimal balance of care.

Embracing the Truth About Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a powerful, versatile healing modality that has helped millions of people achieve better health and wellness. By understanding the truth behind common acupuncture myths, you can make informed choices about incorporating this ancient practice into your life.

If you’re ready to experience acupuncture for yourself or have questions about how it might support your health, reach out to Harmon Acupuncture in Omaha.

Book a free phone consultation, or an appoinment HERE