With the arrival of summer, many people are starting to plan their weight loss journey. It's important to note that unhealthy methods of weight loss can trigger endocrine disorders and other health risks. In recent years, acupoint embedding therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has gained attention and recognition among those looking to lose weight due to its notable effectiveness, safety, convenience, and lack of toxic side effects. However, there are still patients who have doubts about acupoint embedding. Below, I will address some common questions regarding this treatment.
What is Acupoint Embedding?
Acupoint embedding is a special form of acupuncture treatment where absorbable protein threads are implanted into specific acupoints. This creates a long-lasting, continuous, and gentle stimulation effect that helps regulate the balance of qi and blood, enhances the body's immune system, and aims to treat diseases and improve sub-health states.
Is Acupoint Embedding Safe?
During an acupoint embedding session, a doctor uses a fine needle to inject the thread material into the corresponding acupoints, taking only 1-2 seconds per point. The needles and threads used in this therapy are single-use medical products, ensuring one needle per person, which are disposed of according to regulations after use. This prevents cross-infection and ensures safety and hygiene.
Do the Embedded Materials Need to Be Removed?
The materials used in acupoint embedding do not need to be removed. They are made of high-molecular polymer materials that are absorbable by the human body. Over time, these threads are broken down by enzymes in the body into carbon dioxide and water, with no adverse effects on the body.
Why Can Acupoint Embedding Help With Weight Loss?
Acupoint embedding can effectively suppress excessive appetite, allowing patients to consume a moderate amount of energy, thereby achieving the goal of weight reduction. Additionally, it improves metabolism, enhancing the efficiency of fat breakdown and utilization, further promoting weight loss.
How Long Does It Take to See Results From Acupoint Embedding for Weight Loss?
Acupoint embedding for weight loss involves a treatment period (one session every 15 days, with six sessions constituting a course of treatment) and a consolidation period (one session every 1-2 months, with three sessions making up a course). Generally, noticeable weight loss effects can be seen after the first session. After completing a course of treatment, patients can expect to lose between 8 and 20 pounds. Moreover, waist circumference, hip circumference, and thigh circumference may also show significant reductions. Combining acupoint embedding with dietary control and exercise can yield even better results.
What Should You Pay Attention to After Acupoint Embedding?
It is normal to experience sensations such as soreness, numbness, distension, and pain at the local area after acupoint embedding, which usually last for around 2-7 days. These sensations are normal reactions to the stimulation of the acupoints, especially more pronounced in individuals with weaker constitutions or blocked meridians. Avoid contact with water at the treated areas for 6-8 hours after the procedure, but regular activities can continue unaffected. For individuals with a slim build or thinner fat layers in certain areas, small hard nodules may appear locally after acupoint embedding; these do not affect the therapeutic effect and will be fully absorbed within 1-3 months.
Should any significant discomfort occur or if there is a rise in body temperature after the treatment, close observation is necessary, and prompt medical consultation is advised.
What Other Benefits Does Acupoint Embedding Offer Besides Weight Loss?
In addition to weight loss, acupoint embedding can regulate gastrointestinal function through the stimulation of relevant acupoints, improving sub-health states. Studies have also shown that acupoint embedding can be effective in treating gynecological conditions such as menstrual irregularities and premature ovarian failure.
What Are the Contraindications for Acupoint Embedding?
Acupoint embedding is contraindicated for patients with fever or infection, serious illnesses like heart disease, uncontrolled blood sugar levels, allergic constitutions, keloid-prone skin, or a tendency to bleed easily. Women during menstruation, pregnancy, or other special periods should also avoid this method.