Acupotomy, also known as “acupuncture knife therapy” or “acupuncture scalpel therapy,” or “Dao therapy” is a technique that shares some similarities with acupuncture but has distinct differences. Here are some factors that differentiate acupotomy from traditional acupuncture:
1 Instrumentation: The primary difference lies in the tools used during the procedure. Acupotomy involves the use of a specialized instrument, typically a small, thin, stainless steel needle knife or scalpel. Unlike acupuncture needles, which are thin and flexible, acupotomy instruments have a sharper edge and are designed for specific purposes, such as cutting or scraping.

2 Technique and Manipulation: Acupotomy involves both puncturing and manipulating techniques. The acupotomy instrument is inserted into the targeted acupuncture points or soft tissue areas, and various manipulations are performed, such as lifting, twisting, scraping, or cutting. This differs from traditional acupuncture, where thin needles are inserted into specific points and may be manipulated gently by hand or through additional techniques like twirling or electrical stimulation.

3 Depth of Insertion: In acupuncture, the depth of needle insertion varies depending on the treatment approach and the specific points being targeted. Acupotomy, on the other hand, typically involves deeper insertion of the instrument into the affected tissue or muscle layers, with the goal of targeting and treating specific anatomical structures or adhesions.

4 Treatment Focus: Acupuncture is a versatile therapy used to address a wide range of conditions and imbalances throughout the body, including pain management, stress reduction, and overall well-being. Acupotomy, however, is primarily focused on treating musculoskeletal conditions, such as myofascial pain, soft tissue adhesions, and certain types of chronic pain.

5 Treatment Intensity: Acupotomy is generally considered a more invasive technique compared to acupuncture. The deeper insertion and manipulation techniques involved in acupotomy can be more intense and may cause sensations such as soreness, tingling, or even slight bleeding at the treatment site.

It’s important to note that while acupotomy has gained some popularity and proponents in certain regions, its effectiveness and safety are still being evaluated and researched. The use of acupotomy should be performed by qualified practitioners who have received appropriate training and have a comprehensive understanding of anatomy and physiology.
If you are considering acupotomy or any other form of acupuncture-like therapy, it is advisable to consult with a licensed healthcare professional who can assess your specific condition, discuss the available treatment options, and provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs.