Acupuncture is a TCM therapy that uses fine needles to stimulate specific points in the body, helping to balance Qi, relieve pain, and restore body harmony
Acupuncture is a key treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that uses fine, sterile needles to stimulate specific acupoints along the body’s meridians. This helps to restore Qi flow, improve circulation, and relieve pain naturally.
Recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO), acupuncture is widely used in Singapore for back pain, stress, insomnia, arthritis, and chronic conditions, offering a safe, drug-free, and holistic way to support overall health and wellness.
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Acupuncture treatment focuses on restoring balance and improving circulation throughout the body by stimulating specific acupoints along energy pathways. In Singapore, it is commonly used to manage back pain, neck stiffness, headaches, insomnia, digestive issues, and stress-related conditions. By enhancing the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, acupuncture helps reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and support natural healing, offering a safe and effective therapy for overall wellness.
How is Acupuncture Founded?
Acupuncture originated in ancient China over 2,000 years ago, and its earliest concepts are recorded in the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic), a foundational text of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The practice operates on the principle that Qi (vital energy) flows along meridians, and when Qi is blocked or out of balance, pain and disease may follow. By inserting fine needles into specific acupoints, acupuncture helps restore balance, relieve pain, and boost circulation naturally. 🪡
“According to the World Health Organization (WHO), acupuncture is a recognised form of traditional medicine, supported by clinical research and international safety benchmarks (WHO Benchmarks for the Practice of Acupuncture, 2021).”
Today, acupuncture is a WHO-recognised therapy, and its safe practice is guided by standards such as the WHO Benchmarks for the Practice of Acupuncture, which outline minimum infrastructure and safety requirements for clinical acupuncture services.
In Singapore, acupuncture is used widely for pain relief, stress reduction, insomnia, arthritis, and other wellness needs, blending ancient healing with evidence-backed safety and regulation.
How does Acupuncture work from a Scientific Perspective?
From a scientific viewpoint, acupuncture stimulates specific points on the body—known as acupoints—to trigger a series of neurological and biochemical responses. When thin needles are inserted, they activate sensory nerves under the skin and in the muscles, which send signals to the brain and spinal cord.
This process encourages the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals such as endorphins, serotonin, and adenosine, helping to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Acupuncture also improves blood circulation and regulates the autonomic nervous system, which can support healing, lower stress levels, and restore body balance.
Acupuncture is a scientifically recognized therapy that has been shown to effectively relieve pain, improve circulation, and promote the body’s natural healing response. It is widely practiced in both Eastern and Western medicine as a safe, drug-free approach to holistic wellness.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), a division of the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH):
“Research has shown that acupuncture may be helpful for several pain conditions, including back or neck pain, knee pain associated with osteoarthritis, and postoperative pain … beneficial effects of acupuncture continued for a year after the end of treatment for all conditions except neck pain.”
This evidence supports acupuncture as a scientifically validated treatment for chronic pain and musculoskeletal conditions — helping patients restore balance, mobility, and overall well-being naturally.
Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), NIH
What Conditions can Acupuncture help with?
✨ Acupuncture is recognised worldwide — including by the World Health Organization (WHO) — for its effectiveness in relieving pain and supporting various health conditions. By stimulating specific acupoints, acupuncture helps balance Qi (energy), improve blood circulation, and activate the body’s natural healing systems.
💆 Common conditions acupuncture can help with include:
- 🩺 Pain management — back pain, neck pain, knee pain, arthritis, shoulder tension, and migraines.
- 😴 Stress & sleep disorders — anxiety, fatigue, and insomnia.
- 🌬️ Respiratory issues — sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, asthma.
- 🌿 Digestive problems — bloating, constipation, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- 💖 Women’s health — menstrual cramps, hormonal imbalance, menopause symptoms, fertility support.
- 🧠 Neurological & recovery support — stroke rehabilitation, nerve pain, tension headaches.
🏥 At InMed TCM Clinic Singapore, our experienced physicians use evidence-based acupuncture techniques tailored to each patient’s condition — promoting holistic healing and long-term wellness without drugs or surgery.
Can I take Acupuncture with Western Medical Treatment?
✅ Yes! Acupuncture can safely complement Western medical treatments. Many patients in Singapore choose to combine both approaches for more holistic healing — especially for pain management, chronic conditions, or post-surgery recovery.
🌿 Acupuncture works by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and restoring the body’s natural energy balance. These effects can enhance the results of conventional medicine, support faster recovery, and help reduce medication side effects (under professional supervision).
⚕️ Always inform your TCM physician and medical doctor about any ongoing treatments or medications. This ensures your care plan is coordinated and tailored safely for your condition.
What should I do Before and After an Acupuncture Session?
🕊️ Before your session: Have a light meal and stay hydrated — avoid coming on an empty stomach or after heavy exercise. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to allow easy access to acupuncture points. Try to relax and arrive a few minutes early to settle in.
💆 After your session: Rest and stay hydrated to support your body’s recovery. Avoid intense workouts, alcohol, or caffeine for a few hours. Some people may feel slightly tired or relaxed — this is normal and part of the body’s healing response.
✨ Consistency matters! Regular sessions help maintain Qi balance, reduce tension, and improve overall wellness over time.
Are there any side effects?
Acupuncture is generally very safe when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner. Most patients experience minimal to no side effects. Occasionally, you may notice mild effects such as:
- 🌿 Slight soreness or light bruising at needle points
- 💤 Temporary fatigue or drowsiness after treatment
- 😊 A brief feeling of emotional release or relaxation
These reactions are normal and short-lived, showing that your body is responding to the treatment. Serious complications are extremely rare when sterile, single-use needles are used.
✨ To ensure safety, always seek acupuncture from a registered TCM physician or licensed acupuncturist.
Reference: World Health Organization (WHO) – Traditional Medicine Global Report
Is Acupuncture a Recognised Treatment in Singapore?
Yes, acupuncture is a recognised and regulated medical treatment in Singapore. It is officially governed by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board (TCMPB) under the Ministry of Health (MOH).
Only licensed TCM practitioners who meet the qualification and registration requirements set by TCMPB are legally allowed to perform acupuncture in Singapore.
💉 Acupuncture is widely used as a complementary therapy for managing pain, improving circulation, enhancing recovery, and supporting overall wellness. It is also acknowledged by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an effective treatment for a variety of conditions such as chronic pain, migraine, and musculoskeletal disorders.
Reference: Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board (Singapore)
At InMEDTM TCM, we blend the ancient wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with cutting-edge medical technology to deliver holistic healthcare solutions tailored to each individual.
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At InMEDTM TCM, we blend the ancient wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with cutting-edge medical technology to deliver holistic healthcare solutions tailored to each individual.
Cardiovascular Health Package
Comprehensive evaluations that assess your overall health and create a tailored treatment plan.
Need more answers to your health conditions?
Healthier Me Package
Comprehensive evaluations that assess your overall health and create a tailored treatment plan.
Need more answers to your health conditions?
Sleep Optimise Package
Comprehensive evaluations that assess your overall health and create a tailored treatment plan.
Need more answers to your health conditions?
Body Regulation Package
Comprehensive evaluations that assess your overall health and create a tailored treatment plan.
Need more answers to your health conditions?
Organ Care Package
Comprehensive evaluations that assess your overall health and create a tailored treatment plan.
Need more answers to your health conditions?
Men’s Health Package
Comprehensive evaluations that assess your overall health and create a tailored treatment plan.
Need more answers to your health conditions?
Women’s Health Package
Comprehensive evaluations that assess your overall health and create a tailored treatment plan.
Need more answers to your health conditions?
Anti-Aging Package
Comprehensive evaluations that assess your overall health and create a tailored treatment plan.
Need more answers to your health conditions?
Women’s Hormonal Regulation Package
Comprehensive evaluations that assess your overall health and create a tailored treatment plan.