Hello.
I was wondering, it is ''safe'' to mark acu points with a regular ink pen before inserting needle in that spot?
Hello.
I was wondering, it is ''safe'' to mark acu points with a regular ink pen before inserting needle in that spot?
Comment by Archived User
Is it safe* not it is :)
Comment by Chad J. Dupuis, L.Ac.
I wouldn't do that. While nothing serious is likely to happen - technically if you are needling through the ink you are in effect transferring the ink and any other bacteria, etc. below the skin which can lead to infection and/or reactions.
Comment by Archived User
Thought so. Again, thanks a million!
Comment by Archived User
The safe alternative to regular pens are surgical pens. These non-toxic skin markers are available in most medical supply outlets and even on . They may be under "tattoo supplies", but are just as hygenic and safe.
I know a L.Ac / M.D. who uses these surgical pens to mark ashi point along a channel, and then inserts a distal point (usually jing well points) and more proximal points and then stimulates the two points until tenderness in the ashi points dissipates. I know that's not the same as inserting a needle into the marked spot, but I figured it was a somewhat relevant story to share anyways.