Thread Embedding Acupuncture Therapy for Weight Loss

Thread embedding acupuncture is performed using polyglycolic acido thread. Needles have a gauge size of 23G, a shaft length of 60mm, and a thread length of 50mm, folded in half, and are applied to fourteen acupoints, including Zhongwan (CV12), Qihai (CV6), bilateral Tianshu (ST 25), bilateral Wailing (ST 26), bilateral Daheng (SP 15), bilateral Zusanli (ST 36), bilateral Pishu (BL 20), and bilateral Weishu (BL 21). After the thread is inserted into the body, the needle will be withdrawn immediately. During the treatment period, health counseling will be provided by qualified staff at every visit, including diet and physical activity, but there will be no strict restrictions.

The protocol includes the same duration and frequency of sessions as for thread embedding acupuncture, but the treatment will be delivered superficially at non-acupuncture points 10mm from the lateral of the corresponding acupuncture and not above a meridian line. Needles without threads have a gauge size of 23G, and a shaft length of 60mm will be used. After the needle is inserted into the body, it will be withdrawn immediately. During the treatment period, health counseling will be provided by qualified staff at every visit, including diet and physical activity, but there will be no strict restrictions.