Does Acupuncture Hurt?

This is probably the most common question new patients ask.

The simple answer is, “no.” A more detailed answer is, “not in the way you might expect, but often not at all.”

When most people think of needles, they reflect on shots from their doctors or giving blood. Those are hypodermic needles. Being large enough to transfer fluids, they can be a bit painful. Acupuncture needles are solid and much thinner. It is often said that acupuncture needles are hair-thin, and approximately twenty can fit into the opening of a hypodermic needle.

Also, most of the nerves in our skin are in the outermost layer. Plastic guide tubes allow quick and painless insertion past this layer. You may feel a slight pinch, but more often, only a light, tapping sensation. Some points may be tender or sore due to the blockage of energy. So you may have a slight “achy” sensation, but not the pain associated with larger needles.

Even with a fear of needles, nearly all people receiving acupuncture find it relaxing and pain-free. If you are still not convinced, there are also the therapeutic effects of acupressure, and other non-invasive options, including cupping, tui-na, massage, moxa, and herbal formulas.