How to replenish qi after acupuncture has caused qi depletion

Jan 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. He Haochen

Introduction

In general, how to restore the body's Qi after acupuncture-induced depletion depends on the underlying cause, including excessively long acupuncture sessions, incorrect acupoint selection, spleen and stomach deficiency, Qi and blood deficiency, or dysfunction of internal organs. In addition, it is important to allow the body sufficient rest and recovery time to adapt to the stimulation of acupuncture. Avoid overexertion and mental stress, and maintain good sleep quality.

In general, how to recover from qi deficiency after acupuncture depends on the underlying cause, including excessively long acupuncture sessions, incorrect acupoint selection, spleen and stomach weakness, qi and blood deficiency, or organ dysfunction. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Excessively Long Acupuncture Duration

Acupuncture that lasts too long may lead to bleeding at acupoints or loss of qi and blood, especially in individuals with a constitution prone to blood deficiency. Prolonged stimulation can disrupt the balance of qi and blood, resulting in symptoms such as qi leakage, muscle pain, and numbness. It is generally recommended to retain needles for about 30 minutes, avoiding excessively long treatment times.

2. Incorrect Acupoint Selection

Each acupoint has specific functions and effects. If the selected points do not match the patient’s symptoms or constitution, it may lead to loss of qi and blood, causing symptoms such as qi leakage, local swelling, or pain. After receiving acupuncture therapy, pay attention to your body's response. If the results are unsatisfactory or discomfort occurs, communicate promptly with your practitioner to ensure correct acupoint selection.

3. Spleen and Stomach Weakness

The stimulation during acupuncture can affect the spleen and stomach, promoting functional regulation and improvement. However, for patients with weakened spleen and stomach function, acupuncture stimulation may further impair digestive function, leading to reduced digestion and absorption, impaired circulation of qi and blood, and symptoms such as qi leakage, abdominal distension, and poor appetite. Medications such as Shenling Baizhu San, Renshen Jianpi Wan, or Fuzi Lizhong Wan may be taken under medical guidance.

4. Qi and Blood Deficiency

If a patient already suffers from qi and blood deficiency, acupuncture treatment may further deplete these vital substances, worsening the deficiency and leading to symptoms such as qi leakage, fatigue, low voice, and lethargy. Under a doctor’s supervision, medications such as Bazhen Granules, Qixue Shuangbu Wan, or Renshen Yangrong Wan may be used for treatment.

5. Organ Dysfunction

Organ dysfunction may involve deficiencies in specific organs, such as lung, spleen, or kidney deficiency. After acupuncture, due to weakened organ function and reduced capacity for generating and circulating qi and blood, patients may be more prone to symptoms like qi leakage, soreness in the lower back and knees, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Treatments may include medications such as Tianwang Buxin Dan, Guipi Wan, or Buzhong Yiqi Wan, taken as directed by a physician.

Besides the above调理 methods, it is also important to allow the body sufficient rest and recovery time to adapt to acupuncture stimulation. Avoid overexertion and mental stress, and maintain good sleep quality.

View All

Why do I feel weak all over after acupuncture?

In general, feeling weak all over after acupuncture may be caused by factors such as mental tension, excessively long acupuncture sessions, physical weakness, needle fainting (vasovagal response), or insufficient qi and blood. It is recommended to visit a hospital for evaluation to determine the specific cause and receive appropriate treatment. After acupuncture, keep the treated skin areas clean and dry to prevent infection. Additionally, avoid raw, cold, greasy, spicy, and stimulating foods in daily diet.

View Full Answer

How long does it take for soreness at the acupuncture sites to resolve after treatment?

In general, soreness at the acupuncture sites may resolve within 1–2 days, though the exact duration varies from person to person. Individuals with a stronger immune system who can quickly activate their physiological mechanisms to adapt to the acupuncture stimulation may recover within just one day. After acupuncture, it is important to follow the doctor's advice for proper care, such as maintaining a light diet and avoiding touching the needle sites, which can help promote recovery.

View Full Answer

What causes large areas of skin to turn black and purple after acupuncture, and what should be done?

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.

View Full Answer

What causes large areas of black and purple skin after acupuncture, and what should be done?

Large areas of black and purple skin after acupuncture may be caused by local capillary rupture, improper pressure application after needle removal, abnormal coagulation function, allergic purpura, or thrombocytopenic purpura. Management should be based on the specific cause. It is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment. In most cases, no special treatment is required, and the discoloration usually resolves spontaneously within 1–2 weeks.