Acupuncture is a well known form of Chinese medicine. Since many centuries this form of medicine has been practiced in China and many other parts of the world. Acupuncture is basically a technique in which the specific parts of the body is stimulated by inserting the thin needles through the skin. Acupuncture is commonly useful to treat the variety of pains like back pain, neck pain, knee joint pain, muscular pain, etc. This system of medicine is based on the theory that the pattern of energy flow through pathways in our body, these pathways are called as meridians. Any disturbances in this pathways result in the disease. 

Several research studies indicate that Acupuncture has capability to alleviate the chronic pains, hence acupuncture has become an easy and alternative options for many people. However many critics are against this system of medicine due to inconsistent research results.

Let us understand the benefits and risk associated with Acupuncture treatment.

Benefits of Acupuncture                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

1. Ease the chronic pain - Acupuncture reduces the frequency of painful attacks and thus helps to ease the chronic pain. Lower back pain, knee pain due to osteoarthritis, muscular pain due to fibromyalgia, and dental pain can be treated with Acupuncture. Acupuncture not only eases the pain but also improves the mobility and activity of the joint. 
2. Chronic headaches or migraines - Acupuncture treatment is useful and efficient in treating the chronic headaches and migraines. It reduces the frequency and episodes of headaches. 
3. Nausea and Vomiting - Acupuncture is considered as effective in treating nausea and vomiting due to pregnancy, or associated after surgery, chemotherapy in cancer patients, etc.
4. Pressure on nerve - Acupuncture relieves any pressure on the nerve, as seen in Carpel Tunnel syndrome. It not only reduces the pressure but also reduces the pain and numbness associated with compression of nerve.
5. Muscular Spasm - As you know muscle spasm lasts for longer time, Acupuncture can be a good option to relieve the spasm. 

• Risks of Acupuncture - The possibility of side effects or risks associated with acupuncture is low if it is performed by certified therapist who is well qualified to perform Acupuncture.

1. Soreness and bleeding - Even though acupuncture needles are very thin, cause no or very less pain when inserted, many people complain of soreness and minimum bleeding at the site of puncture.
2. Local infection - Reuse of same needle on multiple patients can result in local infection.
3. Puncture of Organs - Too deep insertion of needles can puncture the inner organs and may cause internal bleeding.

Benefits of Acupuncture overrides the small risks. These risks or side-effects are most of the time preventable.