Traditional Chinese Medicine: Concerns About Acupuncture and Cupping

Traditional massage therapy

Hello Doctor: Due to long-term back pain, headaches, and dizziness, a colleague recommended that I try a local clinic.
I hope you can take some time to answer the following questions.
Thank you.

1.
Before the acupuncture, the practitioner forcefully pressed my knee against the center of my spine, which was very painful.
Then, they inserted a total of 12 needles along my spine.
After the acupuncture, they said the needles had turned black and deformed, claiming it was due to toxicity.
They prescribed medication for two days.
Can you explain why the needles turned black? Am I really poisoned?
2.
After cupping (on the area of my spine), what color should the cupping marks be? Is it normal for them to be black? The practitioner said that most people's marks wouldn't be this dark.
What other reasons could cause this condition? Additionally, why did black blood seep from the pores?
3.
The two packets of medicine were extremely large; they said there were 40 types of herbs inside, which need to be boiled down to six bowls for two days.
The cost of the medicine alone was 5,800 TWD.
Am I being scammed? Is it common for doctors to prescribe this way, or is it just a random guess?
4.
They also mentioned that both of my kidneys are inflamed and that my spine is stiff, warning that if left untreated, it could develop into ankylosing spondylitis.
However, my urine tests are normal, and my blood test for HLA-B27 is also normal.
Can this condition still be present without these tests showing it? Should I continue treatment with them? Please give me some advice.
My dizziness has improved over the past two days, which is strange...
but my wallet is getting thinner...

A-Rong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/06/13

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

1.
Needles can turn black, unless they are silver needles; generally, stainless steel needles do not turn black.
2.
The color of the skin after removal indicates the degree of bruising and blood flow obstruction; the darker the color, the more severe the condition.
If there is a small amount of dark blood, it may be due to prolonged cupping; if there is a large amount, it could be because a blood collection needle was used prior to cupping, and the vacuum state during cupping allows for more blood to be released.
3.
Regarding herbal materials and costs, it is impossible to evaluate without seeing the actual herbs.
4.
Kidney inflammation and ankylosing spondylitis can both be diagnosed through blood tests; if the results show no issues, then there are no problems.

Reply Date: 2004/06/13

More Info

When considering the use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for conditions such as back pain, headaches, and dizziness, it is essential to approach treatment with a critical understanding of the methods and their implications. Your concerns regarding acupuncture, cupping, and herbal prescriptions are valid and deserve thorough exploration.

1. Acupuncture Needles Turning Black: The discoloration of acupuncture needles can be alarming. Needles may change color due to various factors, including the presence of blood or other bodily fluids, which can occur if the needles penetrate small blood vessels. However, the claim that this indicates "toxicity" is misleading. Needles should be sterile and used only once; if they appear discolored, it may suggest improper handling or reuse, which is a significant concern. If you feel that your safety is compromised, it is advisable to seek treatment from a licensed acupuncturist or a healthcare professional who adheres to strict hygiene standards.

2. Cupping Marks: The color of the skin after cupping can vary widely. Typically, the marks can range from light pink to dark purple or black, depending on the individual's skin type, the intensity of the suction, and the underlying conditions being treated. Darker marks often indicate more significant stagnation of blood and qi (energy) in the area, which TCM practitioners interpret as a sign of deeper issues. However, if you notice black blood or unusual discoloration, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any potential complications or infections.

3. Herbal Prescriptions: The cost and complexity of herbal prescriptions can be concerning. A prescription containing 40 different herbs is not typical and raises questions about the rationale behind such a combination. While TCM often uses complex formulas, the effectiveness and safety of such a mixture depend on the practitioner's expertise and the specific conditions being treated. If the cost seems excessive, or if you feel uncertain about the necessity of such a treatment, it is wise to seek a second opinion from another qualified TCM practitioner or a Western medicine doctor.

4. Diagnosis of Kidney Inflammation and Spinal Issues: The assertion that both kidneys are inflamed and that you may develop ankylosing spondylitis (AS) without positive test results is concerning. AS is a specific condition often associated with the HLA-B27 antigen, and while it can sometimes present without this marker, a proper diagnosis typically requires a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. If your urine and blood tests are normal, it is essential to discuss these findings with your practitioner. You have the right to question the diagnosis and seek clarification on how they reached their conclusions.

In summary, while TCM can offer benefits for various conditions, it is crucial to ensure that the treatments you receive are safe, evidence-based, and tailored to your specific needs. If you have doubts about your current treatment, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or consult a healthcare professional who can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms. Balancing TCM with Western medical practices can often yield the best outcomes, ensuring that you receive holistic care while safeguarding your health and well-being.

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