What are the risks and side effects of using acupuncture?

Author: SCIRE Community Team | Reviewer: Amrit Dhaliwal | Published: 5 July 2019 | Updated: ~

Even for people who are not restricted from using acupuncture (see above), there may be risks and side effects with the use of this treatment. The common side effects of acupuncture are usually mild and serious complications are rare. However, it is important to discuss these possibilities in detail with your health provider before using this treatment.

• Bruising, bleeding, and skin irritation
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Headaches
• Sweating
• Dizziness and fainting
• Worsening of symptoms (like increased pain or muscles spasms)

For people with SCI (especially those with injuries above the level of T6), acupuncture needles may be a cause of irritation to the body if they are placed below the level of injury. This could increase the risk of autonomic dysreflexia in some people.

• Puncture of the lung (pneumothorax) or other internal organs
• Nerve injury
• Infection or spread of infectious diseases (such as Hepatitis B)
• Needles breaking after they are inserted and becoming embedded in the skin
• Convulsions

Many of the rare complications of acupuncture can result from improper acupuncture technique. Technique is a very important part of ensuring safety, and there can be major risks if acupuncture is performed incorrectly. For example, improper needle placement and not using properly sterilized needles or sterile technique can put a person at risk of complications. Because of these risks, it is important that acupuncture is only performed by a trained health provider.