5-Needle Ear Acupuncture Protocol (NADA Protocol)
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The NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) 5-Needle Protocol is a simple, standardized form of ear acupuncture developed in the 1970s at Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx to support recovery from addiction, trauma, and emotional distress. It has since been used worldwide in a variety of settings, including disaster relief, mental health centers, veteran services, and community wellness clinics.
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The NADA protocol is non-verbal, trauma-informed, and safe for people of all ages. It’s often offered in group settings to support healing in community. It can be used with infants, kids, teens, and adults.
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This protocol involves the gentle placement of five small, sterilized needles in specific points on each ear. Needles are left in place for 20 to 50 minutes for maximum therapeutic benefit. Treatments are conducted by trained Acudetox Specialist (ADS), an Acupuncturist (Lac) or an ADS-in-training. Participation in Acudetox is voluntary and consent is needed to participate. Participants are free to decline or opt out of treatment at any time.
These points help calm the nervous system, regulate stress responses, and promote emotional balance.
Common benefits include:
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Reduced anxiety, stress, depression, and emotional overwhelm
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Improved sleep and focus
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Decreased trauma-related symptoms
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Enhanced sense of grounding and inner calm
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Reduced pain
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While these effects are possible there is no guarantee any of these responses will be true for you. Sometimes, effects are not felt until well after the procedure, or after multiple Acudetox treatments. ‘Notice what you notice’ as you experience your treatment. Acudetox treatments have been used effectively to mediate withdrawal, reduce symptoms of trauma, anxiety depression, insomnia, and to promote general well-being.
Side effects are minimal, but could include local bruising, temporary slight pain (pinch on insertion) or discomfort. In rare cases a faintness (needle shock) may occur and is remedied by taking needles out. Should any symptoms annoy you beyond minimal discomfort notify your ADS and needles will be taken out. Infection Control/Clean Needle Procedures are used to minimize any possibility of infection caused by bloodborne pathogens. Your ADS is trained in universal precautions and clean needling techniques. Prepackaged, sterile, one-time use needles are used, then disposed of in a medical waste (sharps) container. Let us know if you have any questions prior to consent.
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Earley Barnes-Ullrich is a Licensed Acudetox Specialist (ADS) by the Texas Medical Board.
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Consumer complaints can be directed to the Texas Medical Board: tmb.state.tx.us/page/complaints
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