Name of the Procedure:

Acupuncture with Electrical Stimulation (Electroacupuncture)

Summary

Acupuncture with electrical stimulation involves inserting one or more needles into specific points on the body and then applying a mild electrical current to enhance the therapeutic effects. Each additional 15 minutes of personal, one-on-one contact with the patient includes re-insertion of the needles if needed.

Purpose

The procedure aims to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing by stimulating nerves, muscles, and connective tissue. The electrical stimulation can enhance the effects of traditional acupuncture by providing deeper and more sustained muscle activation and tissue response.

Indications

• Chronic pain (e.g., back pain, arthritis)
• Acute pain (e.g., muscle strains, sprains)
• Inflammation
• Nerve pain (e.g., sciatica)
• Rehabilitation from injury or surgery Patient criteria include individuals who have not responded well to other forms of pain management or prefer alternative therapies.

Preparation

• No specific fasting or dietary restrictions are generally required.
• Patients should wear loose, comfortable clothing.
• Inform the practitioner of any medical conditions or medications.
• Diagnostic tests or assessments, such as imaging studies or physical examinations, may be required to determine the targeted acupuncture sites.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: The practitioner assesses the patient's health and identifies the acupuncture points.
2. Needle Insertion: Sterile, thin needles are inserted into selected points on the body.
3. Electrical Stimulation: Electrodes are attached to the needles, and a small electrical current is applied.
4. Re-Insertion: If needed, needles are re-inserted for each additional 15-minute session. Tools include sterile acupuncture needles, electrodes, and an electrical stimulation device. Anesthesia or sedation is not typically used.

Duration

Each session lasts about 30-60 minutes, with each additional 15 minutes involving re-insertion of needles as needed.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, acupuncture practice, or alternative medicine center.

Personnel

• Licensed Acupuncturist
• Sometimes assisted by a nurse or medical assistant

Risks and Complications

• Mild pain or discomfort at the needle insertion sites
• Minor bruising or bleeding
• Rarely, infection or nerve damage
• Managing complications involves standard wound care and symptom treatment.

Benefits

• Pain relief
• Reduction in inflammation
• Improved mobility and function Expected benefits can often be realized within a few sessions; however, chronic conditions may require ongoing treatment.

Recovery

• Patients typically resume normal activities immediately.
• Mild soreness might be experienced at the needle sites.
• Follow-up appointments might be scheduled based on the patient's response and treatment plan.

Alternatives

• Traditional acupuncture without electrical stimulation
• Pain medication
• Physical therapy
• Surgical interventions Pros and cons vary, with electroacupuncture offering a non-invasive alternative and potential for enhanced pain relief compared to some methods.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients might feel a tingling sensation from the electrical stimulation. Some may experience mild discomfort from the needles. After the procedure, minor soreness or bruising might occur, manageable with standard pain relief measures. Practitioners often provide comfort measures such as heat pads or relaxation techniques during and after the procedure.