Can Acupuncture Cause Bruising? What You Need to Know

Yes, acupuncture may sometimes result in a small bruise. Although this might be scary to see, minor bruising is a recognised side effect that will heal by itself. As it is usually just a broken capillary, if you do get a mark, it won’t be tender like a real bruise. The damage caused by banging your knee, for instance, will affect much more tissue and be sensitised, but the marks like bruising in acupuncture are usually just a short term discolouration with no discomfort, and they do not occur very often.

When choosing the best acupuncture clinic in London, it helps to understand why this can happen. Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, but one can occasionally nick a tiny blood vessel beneath the skin.

Here are a few things that can make bruising more likely:

• Sensitive skin or fragile blood vessels: Some people simply bruise more easily than others.
• Blood-thinning medication: Medicines that affect clotting can increase the likelihood of bruising, so always tell your practitioner about any medication you take.
• The treatment area: Some parts of the body have more small blood vessels close to the skin.

A small mark may change from red or purple to yellow as it heals and can last for several days. However, unusual swelling, severe pain, or a large bruise should be discussed with a medical professional.

For acupuncture in central London, Acubody uses sterile, disposable needles and considers your health history before treatment. If you tend to bruise easily, mention it before your session so your treatment can be planned accordingly.

Still concerned about a mark after acupuncture? Contact Acubody and speak with the team.