How Moxibustion Acupuncture Eases Pain Naturally

Moxibustion Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical treatment that skillfully combines acupuncture with moxibustion. By introducing heat into the therapy, its effects are further enhanced, making it especially suitable for individuals prone to body chills or joint pain. Next, we’ll take you through the principles, benefits, and applications of moxibustion acupuncture in clear and easy-to-understand terms.

What Is Moxibustion Acupuncture?

Simply put, moxibustion acupuncture is a combination of acupuncture and moxibustion. In Chinese medicine, it is known as the “warming needle” technique. The practitioner first inserts needles into specific acupoints on the body. Please note: Moxibustion acupuncture must be performed by a qualified professional and is not recommended for self-practice. Then, a small piece of moxibustion stick is placed on the handle of each needle.

The heat travels deep into the body along the needle. Compared with regular moxibustion, this method delivers warmth more precisely and heats the body from the inside out, rather than merely stimulating the surface.

How Moxibustion Acupuncture Relieves Pain Naturally

Moxibustion acupuncture relieves pain through two main mechanisms.

• First, the heat dispels cold from the body, as if a small furnace were warming it from within, driving away cold and dampness in the joints.

• Secondly, acupuncture unblocks the flow of qi and blood, while moxibustion heats and nourishes warms the body. Together, they are more effective than when used alone, helping the body restore balance and recover more quickly.

Advantages of Moxibustion Acupuncture

• Strong effect against cold: The heat from the moxibustion acts like a “small heater,” effectively targeting cold joints as well as cold hands and feet.
• Fast and steady pain relief: The needles regulate the flow of qi and blood, while the moxa’s heat promotes circulation — a two-pronged approach to relieving pain.
• Safe and smoke-free: The moxa sticks are fixed onto the needles for burning, so they do not irritate the eyes and are safer to use.

The Treatment Process of Moxibustion Acupuncture

• Doctor’s consultation: The doctor first assesses the patient’s overall condition to determine whether moxibustion acupuncture is suitable. For instance, pregnant women and individuals with open wounds or fever are not suitable for this treatment.
• Acupoint selection and localization: Based on the patient’s condition, the most appropriate acupoints are selected. The doctor sterilizes the skin and gently inserts the needles to ensure both accuracy and safety.
• Moxa sticks are added: Moxa sticks are attached to the ends of the needles and padded with heat-insulating paper to prevent burns. Once ignited, the warmth is slowly released and directed toward the affected area.
• Quiet relaxation: Patients simply rest quietly for about 10 minutes as warmth spreads from the acupuncture points throughout the body. The cold sensation gradually dissipates with the heat, and the flow of qi and blood becomes smoother.
• Needle withdrawal: After the moxa sticks have burned out, the doctor carefully removes the needles and gently presses the points to prevent infection, allowing the patient to finish the treatment comfortably and safely.

What Conditions Is Moxibustion Acupuncture Suitable For?

Moxibustion acupuncture are effective for a wide range of conditions. Here are some common examples:

• Chronic cold legs: The ST 35 (Dubi) and Zusanli (ST 36) acupoints are commonly used. Some patients say, “My knees no longer feel cold after the treatment — I could even wear thin pants after three sessions!”
• Frozen shoulder: Commonly treated using shoulder acupoints such as LI 15 (Jianyu) and TE 14 (Jianliao). Patients often report, “I can finally lift my arm above my head again!”
• Menstrual pain caused by a uterine cold is commonly treated with the use of Guanyuan (CV 4) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) acupoints. Many patients say, “My next period was completely pain-free!”
• Stomach cold and diarrhea: The Shenque (CV 8) and Zhongwan (CV 12) acupoints are commonly used. One patient shared, “No more diarrhea even after eating ice cream!”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will it burn?
A: During the procedure, the doctor uses heat-insulating sheets and ensures that the moxa sticks are 1–2 centimeters away from the skin, so it’s safe and there’s no need to worry about burns.

Q: Can I take a bath after the treatment?
A: Avoid contact with cold water within four hours after treatment, and do not bathe or swim on the same day to prevent reducing the therapeutic effect.

Warm Tips

Moxibustion acupuncture have a history of thousands of years and are especially suitable for people with a cold constitution who tend to have cold hands and feet. If you often feel cold or experience pain that worsens in cold weather, try this natural “body warmer” — it may bring unexpected warmth and comfort.

Tips:

• Do not receive treatment on an empty stomach. Drinking a glass of warm water beforehand helps the body stay in a better condition.
• Wear loose clothing to make it easier to expose areas such as the knees, waist, and other parts that require treatment.