Sometimes rather than just inserting acupuncture needles, your doctor may choose to use fine acupuncture tacks to stimulate it over a long period of time or may use heat or mild electrical stimulation. The technique of heat is called moxibustion and the application of local electricity used is called electrostimulation.
Acupuncture needles used in the United States are all sterile and generally disposable.
Acupuncture and herbal treatments are drug free and they avoid many of the side effects and dependencies associated with medication. You should always inform your doctor of the medications you are currently taking and whether or not you are or could be pregnant. In addition, if you have a cardiac pacemaker or cosmetic implants. Acupuncture is often used along with other medical care to increase their benefits. It is used for pain control after other medical and dental procedures are performed.