What causes large areas of skin to turn black and purple after acupuncture, and what should be done?
Jan 26, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
In general, extensive black or purple skin discoloration after acupuncture may be caused by normal physiological responses, allergic reactions, excessive stimulation, meridian blockages, or secondary infections. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation and treatment are recommended. After acupuncture, it is advisable to avoid spicy and irritating foods and instead consume light, easily digestible foods such as steamed egg custard, rice porridge, and Chinese yam porridge, which can promote recovery.
Generally,大面积 skin discoloration appearing black or purple after acupuncture may be caused by normal reactions, allergic responses, excessive stimulation, excessive dampness, or infection. If discomfort occurs, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Normal Phenomenon
During acupuncture, blood vessels beneath the skin may be damaged, leading to bleeding and accumulation of blood within the skin tissue. This can result in black or purple discoloration, local numbness, soreness, or muscle twitching. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve within a few days. After acupuncture, it's important to allow sufficient rest and avoid strenuous activities or overexertion.
2. Allergic Reaction
In some acupuncture treatments, medications such as safflower or Chuanxiong (Ligusticum wallichii) may be used as adjuncts. These substances may trigger allergic reactions, including pain, itching, or blackish-purple skin changes. In such cases, acupuncture should be stopped immediately. Follow your doctor’s instructions to take antiallergic medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, loratadine tablets, or promethazine hydrochloride tablets.
3. Excessive Stimulation
If acupoints are excessively stimulated during treatment, it may impair local blood circulation and lead to blood stasis. Blood stasis can cause black or purple discoloration, bruising, and swelling. Under medical guidance, medications such as Yunnan Baiyao Capsules, Sanqi Tablets, or Xuefu Zhuyu Pills may be taken to alleviate symptoms. Additionally, moderate exercise—such as walking, tai chi, or yoga—can help improve blood circulation and relieve blood stasis.
4. Excessive Dampness
When there is excessive dampness in the body, damp-heat toxins may accumulate. Acupuncture might stimulate the expulsion of these toxins, resulting in blackish-purple skin, itching, or increased urination. After acupuncture, wear breathable cotton or natural fiber clothing and avoid tight or non-breathable garments to reduce retention of dampness.
5. Infection
Acupuncture may cause minor skin injuries. If hygiene measures are inadequate or wounds are not properly cared for, bacteria may enter and cause infection, leading to symptoms such as blackish-purple skin, hard nodules, or pain. Follow your doctor’s advice to apply topical antibiotics such as erythromycin ointment, ciprofloxacin hydrochloride cream, or chlortetracycline hydrochloride ointment.
After acupuncture, avoid spicy and stimulating foods. Instead, consume light and easily digestible foods such as egg custard, rice porridge, or Chinese yam porridge, which support recovery.
