Integrative Acupuncture Center

The Main Question: Do the Needles Hurt?!

Do Acupuncture Needles Hurt?  

When you think of needles, what comes to mind? Probably not the most pleasant thought. It may even make you cringe. That is understandable. Most of us have had an experience with hypodermic needles at least once in our lives.  Some of us feel fearful or cringe at the very thought of a “needle”. The reason is that hypodermic needles are fairly thick and hollow because they are designed to inject fluids or draw blood. For this reason, they may cause a more painful sensation when piercing your skin. Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and not designed to inject or draw blood.  Inserting an acupuncture needle into the body is used to create blood flow in areas of stagnation that could be the root of your problem.  The needle works to increase the circulation to this area to restore the proper blood circulation so your body could heal.

Acupuncture needles are approximately the size of a cat’s whisker!

On the other hand, acupuncture needles are about ten times smaller in size than the average hypodermic needle- approximately the size of a cat’s whisker and they are very flexible. Acupuncture needles don’t hurt in the way that hypodermic needles do, however, you may feel a light warm sensation as they are inserted. At worst, you might feel a sensation like a pinch. The needles stay in for about 15 to 45 minutes depending on the type of treatment you are receiving. After the treatment, people report feeling extremely relaxed and calmer.

Talk to your acupuncturist About your Fears

Initially, a lot of people are scared to try acupuncture because they are afraid of needles. You are not alone. Your practitioner is likely to have had this conversation with many patients before you. It is important that you trust your acupuncturist because he/she will listen to your concerns and work with you to be as gentle and caring as possible. Opening up a discussion about your fears is likely to help minimize the anticipated pain that you think an acupuncture needle may inflict.

Rest assured, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine has been around for thousands of years and many people have tried it with great success. Even if you have a fear of needles and are apprehensive about your first treatment, I encourage you to give acupuncture a try. It has helped many people over the years achieve health and wellness with minimal side effects. As Franklin D. Roosevelot said “There is nothing to fear but fear itself!” This is a natural drug free way of whole body healing that is working right now for many people live a healthier life!