Electro-Acupuncture

 

Electro-acupuncture is a specialized therapeutic method where the needles are attached to a device that generates continuous electric pulses using small clips. These devices are used to adjust the frequency and intensity of the impulse being delivered, depending on the condition being treated. Electro-acupuncture uses two needles at a time so that the impulses can pass from one needle to the other. Several pairs of needles can be stimulated simultaneously, usually for no more than 30 minutes at a time. Electro-acupuncture is quite similar to traditional acupuncture in that the same points are stimulated during treatment.

 

When should electro-acupuncture be used?

 

In the United States, electro-acupuncture has been studied for a variety of conditions. It has been effectively used as a form of anesthesia, as a pain reliever for muscle spasms, and as a treatment for certain neurological disorders. Other studies have examined the role of electro-acupuncture in treating conditions such as acne, renal colic, and acute nausea caused by cancer medications. There is also some evidence that electrical stimulation of acupuncture points activates the endorphins in the peripheral nervous system, which can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. it is especially good in the treatment of neurological diseases, chronic pain, spasms, and paralysis.

 

When should electro-acupuncture be avoided?

 

There are some situations where electro-acupuncture is inappropriate, such as in patients with pace-makers, epilepsy, heart conditions, active hemorrhage, fever, infection, in pregnancy, or when otherwise contraindicated.