Tendonitis, an inflammation or irritation of a tendon, commonly arises from overuse, repetitive activities, or injury. Tendons are strong, flexible connective tissues that connect muscles to bones, enabling movement. Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific points on the body. This article explores whether acupuncture can worsen tendonitis symptoms.
Acupuncture Approaches for Tendonitis
Acupuncture aims to address pain and inflammation associated with tendonitis by stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Practitioners insert fine needles into specific anatomical sites, known as acupoints, which are believed to activate the nervous system. This stimulation can lead to the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins, within the brain, spinal cord, and muscles.
Acupuncture also promotes anti-inflammatory effects and enhances blood circulation to the affected area. Increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to inflamed tissues, supporting healing and recovery. Acupuncturists select points based on the injury’s location and the body’s energy pathways. For instance, Achilles tendonitis may involve points near the ankle and calf, while shoulder tendonitis might utilize points on the arm and upper back. Treatments often involve leaving needles in place for 15 to 30 minutes. Some practitioners may use electroacupuncture, applying a mild electrical current to the needles to amplify pain relief and healing.
Reasons for Increased Discomfort or Worsening Symptoms
While acupuncture is generally well-tolerated, factors can lead to increased discomfort or worsening symptoms after tendonitis treatment. One common occurrence is initial post-treatment soreness, often described as a mild aching sensation around the needle sites. This temporary soreness, typically resolving within 24 to 72 hours, often indicates the body is responding to therapeutic stimulation, similar to post-workout muscle sensation. Bruising at the needle sites can also occur, but these effects are usually mild and short-lived.
Increased discomfort can also stem from improper needle placement or technique. If needles are not inserted at the correct depth or angle, they could irritate the tendon or surrounding tissues. Although rare with qualified practitioners, deep insertion carries a risk of hitting nerves or blood vessels, causing pain or discomfort. Excessive needle manipulation, such as vigorous twisting or moving, might temporarily increase soreness at treated points.
Physical stimulation from acupuncture needles could temporarily aggravate an already inflamed or damaged tendon. While acupuncture aims to reduce inflammation, the initial response can vary depending on the existing condition of the tendon. Misdiagnosis is another consideration; if the underlying issue is not truly tendonitis or involves complications not addressed by acupuncture, symptoms may worsen because the root problem remains untreated. For example, tendinosis, a chronic tendon condition, requires different management strategies than acute tendonitis.
Patients might experience increased symptoms if they over-exert the treated area too soon after a session. Temporary pain relief following acupuncture can lead individuals to engage in activities that strain the recovering tendon. Strenuous exercise or high-impact activities immediately after treatment can interfere with the healing process, potentially causing muscle strain, fatigue, or renewed inflammation. It is advised to avoid vigorous activity for at least 24 hours, and sometimes up to three days, to allow the body to recover and integrate treatment benefits.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
Recognize when increased discomfort following acupuncture warrants medical attention. While mild soreness or bruising is common and temporary, persistent or severe pain beyond the typical 24 to 72-hour window should be evaluated. Signs of infection at needle sites, such as redness, warmth, swelling, discharge, or fever, indicate a need for immediate medical consultation.
New or alarming symptoms, including persistent numbness, tingling, or nerve pain after treatment, require prompt professional guidance. Open communication with your acupuncturist about concerns is recommended. If symptoms are severe or do not improve, consult a medical doctor for proper diagnosis and management.
Selecting a Qualified Acupuncturist
Choosing a qualified acupuncturist minimizes potential adverse outcomes and ensures effective treatment. Seek practitioners with state licensure and certifications from recognized bodies like the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). NCCAOM certification indicates that the practitioner has met national standards for safe and competent practice.
Experience is also important, particularly for musculoskeletal conditions like tendonitis. A reputable practitioner conducts a thorough initial assessment, discusses the proposed treatment plan, and explains potential side effects. Clinics should maintain high hygiene standards, using sterile, single-use needles for each patient to prevent infections.