Does Acupuncture Hurt? And more questions answered

People often have questions before they get acupuncture. Here's some answers! What can acupuncture treat?

Everything! Pain, insomnia, headaches, fertility and the list goes on. Any health concern you may have I can help you with!

How big are the needles? While the needles come in varying lengths and widths the difference is width is very minute and not noticeable to the untrained eye. The needles are often compared to the thickness of a couple strands of hair, or a whisker of a cat, in other words 0.12 mm to 0.35 mm in diameter. The size of the needle used depends on the preference of the acupuncturist along with the ailment they are treating and area of the body being treated.

Where will you put the needles?

There are acupuncture points all over the body. Where the needles go will be individual to you but could be on your feet, abdomen, head or ears. If there's an area you would prefer to not have needled please let me know! What are acupuncture needles made of? Modern acupuncture needles have a stainless steel shaft, with a handle made out of copper, steel or plastic. Acupuncture needles are one time use and disposed of immediately after use! Does acupuncture hurt? People will sometimes feel a bit of a pinch with the initial insertion of the needle but that normally dissipates very quickly. Once the needles are in some people feel nothing and others feel tingling, aching or a warming sensation. Commonly some points will have more sensation than others. Very rarely will a patient report feeling any pain after a needle is inserted; if so, it will quickly be removed and the pain should go away. Pain isn’t something that should be felt or elicited. How deep are the needles inserted?

This really depends on the point and also the size of the individual's body. Most needles are inserted 0.5-3 cms.

How long are the needles in for?

Depending on you and what we are treating you will typically be left to rest with the needles for 20-30 minutes. If you have considered getting acupuncture but have had questions regarding the needles and if it is painful hopefully this provides some answers for you! If you have any more questions please don't hesitate to contact me at the clinic or schedule a complementary meet and greet!