Even so, some acupuncturists use needles to treat patients suffering from the flu. Headache, chills, every muscle in his body miserable, Steve Elmes, turned to acupuncture. Unlike hypodermic needles that are larger, hollow and beveled, acupuncture needles are very thin.
Patients feel virtually no pain when they are inserted.
Chinese Medicine theory holds that pathogens, like a virus, enter the body and disrupt the healthy flow of energy. The body reacts rebelliously, that is coughing interrupts smooth breathing, muscle aches reflect the toxic effect of the harmful invader. Though it's workings are indeed mysterious, acupuncture needles placed on specific points, are intended to break the unhealthy cycles, give the patient calm and relaxation, and rev up the body's immune system to fight off the infection faster. Patients contemplating acupuncture need to make sure the practitioner they choose is board certified or at least well on their way.