Does acupuncture work for pain management?

Yes, 1 acupuncture needle is equivalent to one 20mg Oxycontin. Just kidding.

Acupuncture is one of the alternative methods of pain management. Pain management is one of the few applications of acupuncture that has been clinically proven. Since acupuncture is a relatively safe procedure, the only "harm" that may come from trying acupuncture for pain management is the cost (about $60 per session in most markets) and the cost of not doing other things that may have worked better.

As for comparing acupuncture to prescription pain medications (like Oxycontin), there are other aspects to consider. Withdrawal from regular use of opioids (like oxy, and hydrocodone, roxycodone, or even Percocet) may involve a whole body response. Acupuncture is similarly part of a whole-body health management style, when applied by a physician or alternative practitioner certified to act as a primary care provider (laws vary by state and discipline of study).

If you are considering going off of a prescription medication, consult your physician. If your physician doesn't help you stop and you want to stop, consult a professional drug detox center, where there is a physician on staff. If you are interested in acupuncture, discuss that as an option.