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Is Acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture
is very
safe. Sterile needles designed for single use and proper
handling
of needles prevent infection. The incident of reported injury
is
1 in 10,000. Bruising, bleeding or irritation from the needle
occurs in about 3% of treatments. Fainting or dizziness may
occur
if you are nervous or have not eaten. Minor burns can result
from
direct application of moxa or a heat lamp. Rarely, a
misplaced
needle can puncture a lung, resulting in air entering the chest cavity
— a condition called "pneumothorax"; this requires immediate
medical attention. An acupuncturist who is certified by the
NCCAOM has completed the necessary education to perform proper
procedures. Some herbs may be inappropriate during pregnancy
and
should not be taken unless prescribed for you by a certified
acupuncturist. It is important to inform the acupuncturist of any
gastro-intestinal upset or allergic reactions to the herbs.
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