Acupuncture: a complementary medical approach

What acupuncture is

Acupuncture has a history spanning thousands of years and uses very fine needles placed at specific points on the body. Over time, it has also become part of Western medical practice as a possible complementary tool.

In Italy it is a medical procedure. I consider it as an option to integrate when appropriate, without replacing necessary treatment, investigations or clinical assessment.

How I integrate it into medical practice

Before suggesting treatment, I take a medical history and review the problem, medicines and other pathways already tried. This helps me understand whether acupuncture is appropriate and agree a realistic aim.

The choice of points and frequency of appointments do not follow the same pattern for everyone: they depend on clinical assessment and the response observed over time.

What happens during an appointment

The first appointment includes an in-depth conversation and examination. I may also ask about sleep, digestion, habits and other aspects that help me understand the situation as a whole.

I use sterile, single-use, individually packaged needles. Their number and position vary; they usually remain in place for around twenty minutes within an appointment that may last up to approximately one hour.

• Your position is chosen to be comfortable and safe.
• You may feel a brief prick, warmth, heaviness or a deeper temporary sensation.
• The number of appointments is reviewed according to the problem and individual response.

Safety and possible unwanted effects

Before treatment I review health conditions, medicines and any factors requiring particular care. The technique is generally well tolerated when carried out by a trained doctor, but unwanted effects are possible.

• Small bruises or minor bleeding at the insertion point.
• Temporary tenderness, local irritation or tiredness.
• Occasionally, dizziness or feeling unwell during or shortly after the appointment.

When it may be considered

Acupuncture may be considered in different contexts, especially as support within an established pathway. Its suitability always depends on the individual situation.

• Musculoskeletal pain, low back pain, neck pain and some forms of joint pain.
• Headache, muscle tension and some forms of persistent pain.
• Sleep disturbance, stress or fatigue when clinical assessment supports its use.
• Some digestive, gynaecological or fertility-related concerns, alongside necessary care.

Acupuncture within a pain pathway

For pain, I may integrate acupuncture with pharmacological, infiltrative or other non-pharmacological options. The choice depends on the type and duration of pain, previous treatment and its effect on everyday life.