Healing Without Hurting: Demystifying the Acupuncture Experience

You've heard that Acupuncture can help you with your sleep, your anxiety, that old knee injury, but you haven't quite gotten comfortable with the idea of having someone stick needles in you. You're curious but don't feel quite safe to take the next step. The most pressing question on every new patient's mind is: does acupuncture hurt? The short answer is that acupuncture generally does not cause pain when performed by a licensed practitioner. Let's explore this topic in more detail to address common concerns and explain what you can expect during an acupuncture session.


1. Understanding Acupuncture Needle Size

Most of us hear the word needle and think of a sewing needle, or the big needles used at the doctor’s office to draw blood. Acupuncture needles are nothing like that! In fact, they are remarkably thin, much smaller than you might imagine:

- The average acupuncture needle has a diameter of about 0.00325 inches, comparable to a strand of hair. - Most acupuncture needles range between 30-40 gauge, which is significantly thinner than typical hypodermic needles (25-27 gauge).
- Needle lengths vary, typically ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 inches, with different sizes used for various body parts.

2. Sensations During Acupuncture

While acupuncture shouldn't be painful, you may experience various sensations:

- Many people report feeling little to nothing when needles are inserted, due to their thinness and the gentle insertion technique used by a skilled practitioner.
- Once the needle reaches its intended depth, you might feel a mild, dull ache or slight tingling, often described as the “De qi" sensation. This is a good sign, and it means the body is engaged with the needle in a positive way. You may not always experience this sensation with every point, and that is okay too.
- Some patients experience heaviness, warmth, or a gentle pulsing sensation at the site of the needle.
-Patients often experience gentle warmth and energy moving through their bodies during treatment.

​3. Addressing Common Fears

It's natural to have some apprehension about needles, but understanding the facts and the process can help alleviate your fears:

- Acupuncture needles are sterile and disposable, eliminating infection risks.
- Licensed acupuncturists undergo extensive training (4-5 years) to ensure gentle and precise needle placement.
- The process is often described as relaxing rather than painful, with many patients feeling calm and even sleepy during treatment.


Remember, everyone's experience with acupuncture can be different. If you're considering acupuncture, discuss any concerns with your practitioner. They can explain the process in detail and ensure you're comfortable throughout your treatment. Don't let your natural fear of the unknown stop you from benefitting from this amazing medicine.