A 65-year-old South Korean woman suffering from osteoarthritis explored acupuncture when medications caused stomach issues and failed to ease her pain. This therapy used gold needles inserted into her knees and left inside for continued benefit.
Doctors were surprised to find these needles during imaging tests. Dr. Ali Guermazi explained that implanted foreign objects can cause inflammation or infection and complicate X-rays because they hide anatomy beneath.
The body often reacts defensively, wrapping objects in fibrous tissue. Care is also needed because metal needles can be dangerous during MRI scans.
Although acupuncture’s effectiveness is debated, it remains widespread. For this woman, her knees literally hold a “gold mine,” illustrating how alternative therapies can leave lasting traces.
