Doctors were surprised when a routine X-ray of a 65-year-old South Korean woman with severe knee pain revealed “hundreds of tiny gold needles embedded deep in her tissue.” The woman had sought help after years of osteoarthritis pain that standard medications failed to relieve.

After painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs caused stomach issues, she chose acupuncture, a common alternative therapy in Asia. In her case, the needles were intentionally left inside her body to provide ongoing stimulation for pain relief.

Experts warn the practice can be dangerous. Dr. Ali Guermazi, a radiology professor at Boston University, explained: “The human body doesn’t like foreign material.” He noted that retained needles can trigger inflammation, infections, or abscesses as the body reacts.

The needles also complicate medical care. According to Guermazi, “They can obscure parts of the anatomy on an X-ray.” Even more concerning, patients with metal implants should never have an MRI, as magnetic forces could move the needles and cause serious internal injury.

While gold needle or thread implants are still used in parts of Asia and have gained limited popularity elsewhere, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness remains weak. The case highlights the need for caution and informed medical guidance when turning to alternative treatments for chronic pain.