Does acupuncture hurt?

One of the most common questions that I get as an acupuncturist is whether or not acupuncture hurts.  The answer, simply, is that no, acupuncture should not be painful.  You might get a zing from a needle, but that sensation should subside.  In fact, you won’t even feel many of them going in, and may even forget where I placed the needles once they are in.  Communication is key: if a needle is bothersome, you just tell me, and I’ll adjust it.  I have been told that my style is gentle, and my goal is to make everyone as comfortable as possible.

The needles are very thin and flexible.  They are much smaller than hypodermic needles—and are even smaller than a sewing needle.  I treat people with single-use, sterilized needles; needles are never reused.

Your treatment may require needles to be placed anywhere from the top of your head to the tips of your toes.  There are some fantastic acupuncture points on the face and on the ears, and I use a very thin needle in these areas.

Some patients are sensitive to needles.  I work with those patients to make them more comfortable, and use the smoothest and thinnest needles that I can to minimize their sensitivity.

If you don’t like to see needles, I completely understand.  I’m the same way when I get blood drawn!  I don’t like to look at hypodermic needles.  But acupuncture needles are different.  If you don’t want to see them, tell me, and I’ll work with you. 

So, if you are worried about the pain of a needle, don’t let that be a barrier to getting the treatment that you need—and be sure to tell me before I start the treatment.I know that many people are anxious about their first appointment. But I find that people are pleasantly surprised when they realize acupuncture isn’t painful, and they are able to relax during their session.