Medical Electroacupuncture

We're not talking about ancient Chinese medicine (ACM). Although the origination of medical electroacupuncture was undeniably influenced by ACM, electroacupuncture techniques coupled with medical application yields a different approach to treatment of pain. Furthermore, while traditional medicine has yet to accept electroacupuncture as a treatment modality, the vast majority of research and studies done on the subject are largely conducted by organizations dedicated to alternative and complementary treatment modalities.

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When using electricity, acupuncture needles, and an in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, the resulting treatment treatment is known a electroacupuncture or Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS). In PENS, advanced knowledge of the nervous system allows us to place acupuncture needles right next to the nerve we wish to stimulate. By stimulating these nerves directly, possible effects include pain relief, muscle stimulation, increased sensation, among others. 

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How does electroacupuncture work?

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Electroacupuncture is thought to cause a release of endorphins in the human body. Endorphins are chemical messengers that our body uses to decrease pain and balance the nervous system. Endorphins are known to decreased pain, decrease anxiety, and promote a feeling of wellness. Some studies suggest that low frequency (2 Hz) electroacupunture and high frequency (100 Hz)  electroacupuncture causes the release of enkephalins (a type of endorphin) and dynorphins (another type of endorphin) in animals and in humans. The release of these endorphins can reduce the amount of cytokines (inflammation) circulating in the bloodstream. Electroacupuncture is also thought to alleviate pain through the interaction with cannabinoid receptors (the same pain-relieving methods used by CBD and THC) in the nervous system.

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In addition, there have been clinical studies that suggest electroacupuncture may cause an increase in levels of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the bloodstream.

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What conditions can be treated with electroacupuncture?

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Electroacupuncture can be used to treat a variety of different conditions on nearly any part of the body.  The different techniques and settings for treatment depends entirely on these factors. Some treatments may require more or less electrical current to provide relief. While other treatments may require that the needles be places more shallow or deeper to provide an adequate level of nerve stimulation. Electroacupuncture may provide relief for patients with:

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Back pain

• Knee pain

• Overactive bladder

• Premature ejaculation

• Muscle spasms

• Drop foot

• Joint pain

• Nerve pain

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Sciatica

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There are too many conditions that may be treated with electroacupuncture to be listed on this page. 

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What are some of the contraindications of electroacupuncture?

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Some of the contraindications of electroacupuncture may include, but are not limited to:

• Pacemaker

• Internal defibrillator

• Spinal cord stimulator

• Epilepsy

• Bleeding disorders

• Active infection

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Some of these contraindications are relative, meaning they depend on the location of the area being treated and other factors. For example, an ear infection would not likely prevent you from having an electroacupuncture treatment on your foot. However, patients with pacemakers or internal defibrillators should almost never have electroacupuncture applied to areas across or around the chest.

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Doesn't electroacupuncture hurt?

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Not typically. The needles used are nearly identical to those used for regular acupuncture. They are extremely fine and rarely are even felt. During the procedure, patients may feel a slight electrical sensation as a result of the current, but not enough to cause pain. On average, when done properly, patients feel an immediate decreased in pain as a result of the endorphins released by the procedure.

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Also, unlike traditional acupuncture clinics, our office is a professional medical facility. Therefore, we can administer different topical or local numbing agents, if necessary, to minimize any pain.

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What are the risks associated with electroacupuncture?

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There are risks with any medical procedure, including the risk of bleeding and infection. We always use aseptic techniques with any medical procedure in the office. Most of the risks associated with electroacupuncture can be reduced by following standard medical precautions.

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Is electroacupuncture covered by insurance?

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It certainly depends on the insurance company and the reason (diagnosis) for treatment. Medicare will cover the cost of electroacupuncture for lower back pain only. If you have private insurance, including Medicare advantage plans, your insurance company may reimburse you for the cost of electroacupuncture treatments.

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Does electroacupuncture work?

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No medical treatment works 100% of the time. Electroacupuncture works very well for some people, while for others it does nothing. Those who get no long term benefit often see a small reduction or temporary reduction in pain. However, just like any other medical treatment or procedure, electroacupuncture doesn't work for everyone. 

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There has been a ton of research on acupuncture in the past, but the incorporation of electricity is a relatively new practice. A lot of the research that has been conducted on electroacupuncture has mixed results.

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