Urgent Concerns About Acupuncture Weight Loss Treatment Pain

Thread embedding issues?

Hello, doctor.
I have an urgent question to ask you.
Two days ago, on October 29th, I underwent acupuncture for weight loss at a traditional Chinese medicine clinic.
The procedure involved two needles in the lower abdomen and two in the buttocks.
Although I felt a bit uncomfortable right after the treatment, overall it was manageable.
However, yesterday afternoon, I started experiencing severe pain near the left side of my lower abdomen where one of the needles was inserted, especially when standing up or lying down; sitting was relatively less painful.
This morning, the pain has worsened to the point where I can hardly tolerate it, and it hurts whether I am standing, lying down, or sitting.
Is it possible that the acupuncturist accidentally punctured an internal organ? I have had this procedure done several times before without such pain.
Do you think this could be related to the heat therapy? The clinic advised us to apply heat to the acupuncture site, which I had never done before.
However, after applying heat this time, I felt even more uncomfortable.
What should I do now? Should I go to the hospital for a consultation, or will it get better in a few days? Thank you.

Desdemona, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/31

Dr. Peng Peilun reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

If there is increasing pain, it is advisable to consult a surgeon.
It may be possible that the sutures are not absorbing properly or have become inflamed.
Check the skin's surface for any redness or swelling, and monitor for any signs of fever.

Reply Date: 2004/10/31

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort following your acupuncture treatment for weight loss, specifically in the area where the needles were inserted. It's understandable to be concerned about the pain you are feeling, especially since it has intensified since the procedure. Let’s address your concerns step by step.

1. Pain After Acupuncture: It is not uncommon to experience some discomfort after acupuncture, particularly if needles were inserted into sensitive areas. However, the level of pain you are describing—especially if it is severe and worsening—may indicate that something more serious could be occurring. Acupuncture needles are typically very thin and designed to minimize discomfort, but if they are inserted too deeply or at the wrong angle, there is a risk of injuring underlying tissues or organs.
2. Potential Injury: While it is rare, there is a possibility that the needles could have inadvertently affected nearby organs or structures, especially in the abdominal area. This could lead to pain and discomfort. If the pain is localized and sharp, it may be worth considering that there could be an issue that needs medical attention.

3. Heat Application: You mentioned that the clinic advised heat application to the acupuncture sites. While heat can sometimes help with muscle relaxation and pain relief, it can also exacerbate inflammation in certain cases. If you are experiencing increased pain after applying heat, it may be best to stop using heat and consider switching to ice packs, which can help reduce inflammation and numb the area.

4. When to Seek Medical Attention: Given that your pain has escalated to a level where it is affecting your ability to stand, lie down, or sit comfortably, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to rule out any serious complications.
5. Follow-Up Care: If you decide to wait and see if the pain resolves on its own, monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any additional symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel or urinary habits, seek medical care immediately.
In summary, while some discomfort after acupuncture is normal, the severity and persistence of your pain warrant further evaluation. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. Please consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible to ensure that there are no serious underlying issues.

Similar Q&A

Fitness Consultation: Addressing Weight Gain and Shoulder Pain Issues

I do not smoke and have an irregular exercise routine. My height is 163 cm, weight is 69 kg, and my BMI is 25.97 (which is considered dangerously overweight). Flexibility: 39 (good), Muscle strength: 20 (poor), Cardiovascular endurance: 23.08 (very poor) ------ (the above are the...

Dr. Lin Ruixiang reply Physical Fitness
In summary, you have two issues: 1. Stomach pain 2. Shoulder pain with uneven shoulders. To address the first issue, although I am unaware of your weight loss methods, they generally involve fasting and exercise. During fasting, it is recommended to consume at least 1500 to 200...

Navigating Chronic Pain: Seeking Answers Beyond Traditional Medicine

Hello Dr. Chen, Four years ago, I experienced a sudden onset of severe back pain during the winter, which left me unable to get out of bed. Over the past four years, I have consulted various orthopedic specialists who have stated that there is no significant issue. Traditional ...

Dr. Chen Mengkan reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on the symptoms you have described, it is still unclear what is causing your discomfort. I would recommend that you organize your symptoms, including the frequency of episodes, any aggravating or alleviating factors, and the location of associated pain. Then, consult...

Struggling to Lose Weight: Seeking Effective Solutions for Busy Professionals

Hello Dr. Yang: I am a working professional who eats out for breakfast and lunch, and has dinner at home. I am 174 cm tall and weigh 97 kg, and I have been diagnosed with fatty liver disease. Both of my parents have had strokes and are on diabetes medication. I feel that my weigh...

Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Diet and exercise are the foundation of weight loss. While weight loss medications may have some effects, if lifestyle habits do not fundamentally change after discontinuation, weight regain will occur quickly. Therefore, it is essential to make a firm commitment to contro...

Is Acupuncture Effective for Weight Loss? Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Is acupuncture for weight loss effective according to traditional Chinese medicine? Please provide a response from a physician.

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Weight loss primarily involves the consumption of body fat. Acupuncture can enhance the circulation system, thereby accelerating metabolic processes. However, if the diet is high in fats or calories, it will lead to fat accumulation in the body. Therefore, "dietary moderatio...