Is it worth using guides for acupuncture needles?

In acupuncture, an ancient medical practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture needles play a crucial role. However, to ensure precise and safe puncturing of acupuncture points, guides for needles are used. In this article, we will discuss the significance of guides in acupuncture, their advantages, disadvantages, and who they are recommended for.

Table of contents:
1) What is a guide for acupuncture needles?
2) What are the advantages of using guides in acupuncture?
3) What are the disadvantages of using guides in acupuncture?
4) Who are guides recommended for?
5) How are acupuncture guides packaged?
6) Summary

What is a guide for acupuncture needles?

A guide for acupuncture needles is a plastic tube whose diameter allows for stable insertion of the acupuncture needle. It enables more precise and controlled insertion of the needle into the acupuncture point on the patient's skin. Guides are included in needle packages. They can be in sets of individual needles or in blister packs, where one guide may accompany several needles.

What are the advantages of using guides in acupuncture?

Guides for acupuncture needles have several significant advantages, which is why they are increasingly used by acupuncturists.

Firstly, they allow therapists to safely guide the needle, reducing the risk of bending or breaking, thus minimizing the risk of injury to the patient.

Secondly, they enable more precise puncturing, especially for less experienced acupuncturists, minimizing the risk of incorrect insertion and consequently reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.

Thirdly, guides provide therapists and patients with greater comfort as they allow for gentler and more controlled insertion. Simply tapping the needle in the guide will insert it vertically into the point.

Fourthly, using guides can shorten treatment time, benefiting both the patient and the therapist. This is particularly important when performing treatments with a large number of acupuncture points or when the therapist treats multiple patients in succession.

What are the disadvantages of using guides in acupuncture?

Despite numerous advantages, guides for acupuncture needles may also have some drawbacks.

Firstly, the need to use an additional tool may slightly increase costs.

Secondly, experienced acupuncturists may handle needles better directly with their fingers, achieving greater precision without using guides.

Thirdly, especially when using one guide for several needles, treatment time may slightly increase because each needle needs to be placed in the guide before insertion.

Fourthly, guides can be a hindrance if the angle of insertion is not perpendicular or if the insertion site is particularly difficult to access. In such cases, the guide may be more of an obstacle than a help.

Who are guides recommended for?

Guides for acupuncture needles are particularly recommended for novice acupuncture practitioners and for therapists who value greater control in needle insertion and prioritize safety. Experienced acupuncturists who have years of hand practice may, on the other hand, work more efficiently without guides.

How are acupuncture guides packaged?

Guides for acupuncture needles can be packaged in various ways. Sometimes the needles are placed directly in the guide and individually packaged, allowing for convenient and hygienic use. In other cases, guides may be provided with needles in blister packs, where one guide may be intended for several needles.

Summary

Guides for acupuncture needles are an essential tool in acupuncture practice, enabling precise, controlled, and safe puncturing of acupuncture points. Despite some drawbacks, their numerous advantages make them particularly recommended for novice therapists and for those who prioritize maximum safety during treatment. The ultimate decision on whether to use guides or not should depend on our personal preferences, experience, and the specific requirements of the treatment we intend to perform. Guides are certainly not a universal solution that works always and everywhere, but it is very beneficial that they exist and can significantly facilitate the lives of acupuncturists in situations where their use is most justified.