Rubber electrodes or moistened cotton-tipped applicators can also be used to deliver electrical stimulation of acupuncture points. Some practitioners use low powered laser or infra-red lights to stimulate pressure points, while others combine the insertion of needles with the use moxibustion. Moxibustion is the burning of moxa with various medicinal herbs. The moxa is rolled into a cigarette shape, lit, and placed about three centimetres from the selected pressure point. A treatment session may last between 15 and 30 minutes.
Some people feel immediate relief, while others feel relief after several hours or days.
The number treatments required varies according to the condition. Long-standing conditions may require one or two treatments a week for several weeks. Acupuncture is a very safe treatment with little or no side effects. However, certain people should be cautious. People with pacemakers for example, should not have electrical stimulation.