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Does Acupuncture Hurt?

This is a common question asked by most people who have not experienced acupuncture. Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are solid and hair-thin – not designed to cut the skin. They are also inserted to much more shallow levels than hypodermic needles, generally no more than 1/2 -inch to an inch.

While each person experiences acupuncture differently, most people feel only a minimal amount of sensation as the needles are inserted. Some people report feeling a sensation of excitement, while others feel relaxed. The needles we use in our clinic are about the size of a thick hair. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. The hands, face and feet are usually the most sensitive areas of the body and sometimes minor discomfort may be experienced when receiving acupuncture to these areas.

The needles are inserted using a "guide tube" and quickly tapped into the skin. Most people do not feel any discomfort when the needle has been inserted.