Needle retention

Leaving acupuncture needles in place for a certain time after insertion. In modern practice needles are often left in place for a period ranging from several minutes to two hours depending on the particular condition. This allows for the application of other stimulation methods such as warming the needle, electrical stimulation, or intermittent manipulation. Often needles are retained with little or no additional manipulation. Needle retention in general can increase the ability of a point to relieve pain and quiet the spirit. Some specific treatments require needle retention to achieve satisfactory results. For example, treatment of intestinal welling-abscess (appendicitis) or panting generally involves the retention of needles for at least half an hour. The patient must be instructed not to move while the needles are in place. Pain resulting from a change in posture can be relieved by withdrawing the needle to a level just beneath the skin, and then reinserting it to its proper depth.