Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular among Westerners looking for alternative healthcare options. A recent study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Healthcare found that acupuncture is effective for chronic pain management. However, there are some potential risks associated with acupuncture treatments. The most common complaint about acupuncture is that it may cause slight discomfort during the procedure. This is due to the fact that practitioners use thin needles that do not penetrate deeply enough to cause tissue damage. In addition, many people experience mild bruising after the treatment. As long as the practitioner uses sterile needles and follows proper sterilization procedures, the risk of side effects is pretty low. If you are considering having acupuncture performed, make sure you discuss your medical history with your physiotherapist prior to the treatment. If you have any concerns, ask questions. You may want to consider scheduling a consultation appointment with a qualified physiotherapist.