What Are the Effects of Traditional Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion – And Does It Hurt?

Therefore, this article explains—in a clear, professional, and evidence-based way—how acupuncture and moxibustion work, what they help with, and what patients actually feel during treatment.
Traditional Chinese acupuncture and moxibustion treatment in a professional clinic in Frederiksberg

❓ What Is Traditional Chinese Acupuncture and Why Is It Still Relevant Today?

Traditional Chinese acupuncture is a core treatment within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It focuses on restoring balance in the body by stimulating specific acupuncture points using very fine, sterile needles.

🔹 But why is it still popular in Denmark today?

Because acupuncture:

  • Supports the nervous system
  • Helps regulate pain and inflammation
  • Complements modern Western medicine
  • Is often refunderet af det offentlige sundhedsvæsen (with referral)

In contrast to short-term symptom control, acupuncture aims to treat the root cause, not just the surface problem.

❓ What Is Moxibustion and How Does It Work in TCM-Praksis?

Moxibustion is a heat-based therapy where dried mugwort (moxa) is gently burned near acupuncture points.

🔥 Why heat?
Because in TCM theory, cold and stagnation block the body’s natural energy flow.

Moxibustion helps to:

  • Warm the meridians
  • Improve blood circulation
  • Strengthen immunity
  • Reduce chronic pain and fatigue

In our Frederiksberg akupunkturcenter, moxibustion is often combined with acupuncture for enhanced and longer-lasting results.

Traditional Chinese medicine meridian system illustrated on the upper back during acupuncture therapy

❓ What Are the Main Health Effects of Acupuncture and Moxibustion?

✅ Commonly treated conditions include:

✔ Chronic neck & back pain
✔ Headaches & migraines
✔ Stress, anxiety & sleep problems
✔ Digestive disorders
Women’s health & fertility support
✔ Sports injuries & recovery
✔ Immune system weakness

❓ Does Acupuncture Hurt or Feel Uncomfortable?

This is the most searched question in Denmark regarding acupuncture.

👉 The short answer: No, acupuncture does not hurt.

Modern acupuncture needles are:

  • Extremely thin
  • Sterile and single-use
  • Much finer than injection needles

Most patients feel:

  • A light tingling sensation
  • Warmth or heaviness
  • Deep relaxation

😌 In fact, many people fall asleep during treatment.


❓ How Does Acupuncture Compare to Moxibustion?

To make things clearer, here is a direct comparison table 👇

TreatmentMain EffectSensationBest For
AcupunctureRegulates nerves & painMild tinglingPain, stress, insomnia
MoxibustionWarms & boosts circulationGentle warmthCold conditions, fatigue
Combined Therapy ⭐Stronger, longer resultsRelaxingChronic & complex cases

❓ Is Acupuncture Scientifically Accepted in Denmark?

Yes. Increasingly so.

✔ Used in hospitals
✔ Recommended by pain clinics
✔ Integrated into rehabilitation programs
✔ Supported by clinical research

Additionally, many treatments are refunderet af det offentlige sundhedsvæsen, making acupuncture both accessible and cost-effective.

❓ Is Acupuncture Safe for Everyone?

Yes—when performed by trained professionals.

✔ Safe for adults & elderly
✔ Suitable alongside Western medicine
✔ No chemical side effects

❓ How many acupuncture sessions do I need?

Most patients notice improvement after 3–5 sessions, while chronic issues may require ongoing care.

❓ Can acupuncture replace medication?

In some cases, yes—but often it works best alongside conventional treatment.

❓ Is acupuncture covered by public health insurance in Denmark?

Many treatments are refunderet af det offentlige sundhedsvæsen, depending on referral and condition.

Scroll to Top