Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine, it is an ancient practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Acupuncture is primarily used to relieve pain while increasing blood flow, stimulating muscles and nerves throughout the body.

What are the benefits of acupuncture?

Acupuncture improves the body functionality and promotes the natural process of self-healing by stimulating specific areas of the anatomy, commonly known as "acupuncture points".
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, sickness comes from disordered or energetic blockages of the Qi. The Qi (Qi ) is the energy flow that circulates and flows near the skin at the acupuncture points

When can I use Acupuncture ?

Acupuncture can be used to treat pain: in the back, neck, face, shoulders and muscles. It can also be used as a treatment to sciatica, arthritis and headaches. Acupuncture can also help in the case of abdominal, pelvic, menstrual, nerve, and scarring pains.

When pregnant, some women also use it to avoid medicines.

During an acupuncture session

The most well-known acupuncture method is the insertion of sterile, fine single-use needles at the acupuncture points.
However, the acupuncturist does not necessarily use the needle method. Most practitioners are also trained to use other complementary therapies such as moxibustion (that uses heat) and electro-acupuncture (with electro-stimulation).

During a session, it is important to relax, to keep a comfortable position and to avoid moving as much as possible. It is also important not to make any sudden gestures.
A session usually lasts no more than 30 minutes.
You will generally need 5 to 10 sessions for treatment, depending on the severity of your symptoms.


Does the insertion of the needles hurt?

Most people don't feel any pain during the insertion of the needles but others feel a small pinch. Once the needles are in place, you shouldn't feel them anymore. If a needle causes discomfort, you should inform the acupuncturist and he will adjust the needle.


Is acupuncture covered by my health insurance?

With UEX, acupuncture is considered as alternative medicine and can be covered from a Base plan 2.

Physiotherapists at our partners UFIT Clinic are highly experienced at Dry Needling (or medical acupuncture). If you're interested in finding out, book an appointment today


To find out more about healthcare topics in Singapore you can check our articles. To understand how your health insurance plans cover the healthcare costs, you can approach UEX’s happiness team by email for more information and guidance – and the good news is that they are super nice!

With UEX, you can obtain a quote for both AXA and APRIL health insurance contracts customized to your needs and requirements – all in less than a minute!