Health Blog

Cellulitis is a skin infection that can spread rapidly. The bacteria associated with this condition affects the connective tissues underneath the skin, but it can spread to the lymph nodes as well. For most people, cellulitis can be successfully treated with antibiotics. In more severe cases, additional therapies may be needed. One common alternative treatment for cellulitis is acupuncture.

What are the Benefits of Acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves the use of needles, which are inserted into the patient’s skin at key points around the body. These points are believed to be part of an intricate pathway of energy flowing through the body. Acupuncture practitioners believe when the body’s energy is blocked, it upsets the spiritual and physical harmony. Placing needles at various positions may open up the pathways and improve energy flow.

Proponents of acupuncture therapy believe physical pain is caused by the imbalance of energy. If you suffer from cellulitis, acupuncture may increase your energy and blood flow while initiating your body’s natural painkilling instincts. The process of strategically inserting needles into vital locations may also have an affect on the core cause of cellulitis.

As a supplemental therapy, acupuncture provides numerous benefits. When it is done properly, the practice is safe and causes few adverse side effects. It’s an ideal alternative for people who want to avoid taking medication or don’t respond well to conventional treatments. Acupuncture strengthens the immune system and boosts the body’s ability to fight pain.

Cellulitis Treatments with Acupuncture

If you suffer from cellulitis and want to undergo acupuncture therapy, it’s important to know what to expect. Your practitioner should be properly certified and have ample experience in the field of acupuncture or alternative therapy. Some cases of cellulitis may be too severe and may require more clinical treatments. Discuss with your doctor what options are best for your individual needs.

Once you select an acupuncture specialist, inquire about the process. Some practitioners place the needles directly into an area affected by cellulitis, but many physicians advise against it. You should also discuss how many needles will be used and what types of sanitation measures will be taken. Many practitioners insert single-use needles, while others sterilize and reuse the same needles over and over.

Your initial visit to an acupuncturist will consist of a general examination. The practitioner will assess your situation and suggest a treatment plan. Typically, each consecutive acupuncture session lasts approximately 30 minutes. Most therapies include several weekly treatments. Depending on how severe your case is, you may need at least ten sessions.

As your acupuncturist inserts each needle, you may not feel any pain. However, once the needles go deeper into your skin, you may feel an ache or uncomfortable sensation. Some practitioners heat the needles or use electrical stimulation after they are inserted. This maximizes the effect of the therapy. Once the needles are all inserted, you many need to wait at least 20 minutes before they can be removed.

After your initial acupuncture treatment, it’s a good idea to carefully observe any areas affected by cellulitis. If your condition doesn’t improve, stop the treatments and speak to your healthcare provider. In some cases, acupuncture only eases the symptoms or decreases the amount of pain but may not eliminate the issue entirely.

The bacteria from cellulitis can spread quickly under the skin, so it’s best to seek treatment immediately if you become infected. Postponing treatment can lead to serious complications and potentially fatal results. Speak with your physician about alternative therapies like acupuncture. He or she may suggest that you use acupuncture only as a complementary treatment to antibiotic therapy.