What are the precautions and contraindications after acupuncture?

After acupuncture, you should generally pay attention to keeping the acupuncture site clean, observing body reactions, taking appropriate rest and activities, etc.; taboos include not eating spicy foods, avoiding direct blowing, and prohibiting scratching and massage.

一. Things to note

1. Keep the acupuncture site clean

After acupuncture, there may be tiny pinholes at the acupuncture site. Contact with moisture and dirt should be avoided to prevent infection. It is recommended to wait until the pinhole is completely closed before bathing. This usually takes a few hours to a day.

2. Observe body reactions

After acupuncture, you should pay close attention to your body’s reactions, such as redness, swelling, pain, or blood stasis at the acupuncture site. If abnormal reactions occur, such as persistent pain, fever, or signs of local infection, you should seek medical attention promptly.

3. Proper rest and activities

After acupuncture, patients may feel relaxed or a little tired. It is recommended to take appropriate rest and avoid strenuous exercise to avoid affecting the treatment effect. At the same time, according to the doctor’s advice, you can engage in light activities, such as walking, yoga, etc., to promote the circulation of qi and blood.

二. Taboos

1. Avoid eating spicy foods

During the acupuncture recovery period, it is not advisable to eat spicy, greasy, cold, or overly hot foods to avoid stimulating the functions of the internal organs and interfering with the adjustment effect of acupuncture therapy on the body’s balance.

2. Avoid direct blowing

The skin of the area that has just been treated with acupuncture is relatively sensitive, so you should avoid blowing fans or air conditioners directly to prevent the invasion of cold evil, which may affect the efficacy and even cause symptoms such as joint pain and muscle soreness.

3. No scratching or massage

Do not scratch or forcefully massage the acupuncture point to avoid causing local infection or aggravating the original symptoms.