Does acupuncture hurt?
This is a common question I get asked when meeting a new patient. Most of us have awful memories of shots when we were young (or old), and needle fear is real! Believe it or not, I was needle-phobic when I got my first acupuncture treatment, but that fear was quickly alleviated by the skillful insertion of the needles by my practitioner and the relief I felt after my treatments.
So, let’s start with the facts.
What are the differences between acupuncture and hypodermic needles that are used for shots?
Acupuncture needles are solid, filiform, and flexible. Whereas hypodermic needles are hollow and rigid to allow fluid to pass through them. The size of an acupuncture is infinitesimally smaller than hypodermic needles that are used for most vaccinations or blood draws. The gauge of the average acupuncture needle is 38-34. While a hypodermic needle for a blood draw is 18-gauge and the average gauge for a vaccination is 21. Although it’s counterintuitive, the bigger the gauge number the smaller the sized needle. To put things in perspective, about 20 acupuncture needles can fit into the tip of an 18-gauge hypodermic needle. That’s small!
But is acupuncture painful?
No, acupuncture needle insertion is generally not painful. There may be a slight pinch or mosquito bite sensation initially or you might not feel them go in at all, which is usually the case. And that initial pinch should fade quickly. Once the needles are inserted and retained for a period of time, normal sensations during the treatment are a mild dull ache or distention, itchiness or “ants crawling,” energy movement throughout the body, heat or cold, relaxation and sleepiness, or you may not feel anything.
Still not convinced? Here are some activities that you can do proactively prior to your treatment to make needle insertion less impactful and set you up for success.
Stay hydrated. Drinking water will help your muscles relax and flush out any toxins that are built up in your tissues. Relaxed muscles equals easier insertion and less pain.
Avoid or reduce caffeine. Caffeinated beverages or snacks stimulate your nervous system, increase your heart rate, and feelings of anxiety. Reducing this prior to treatment helps your body relax and not brace for needle insertion.
Approach your treatment with curiosity and an open mind. Trying something new can be intimidating! But the more you can be open to it, I assure you, the better it will be. And I encourage you to honestly share any anxiety that you may be feeling as it arises. I will support you through any discomfort that you may have by offering breathing techniques, reiki, or massaging of the points to help with insertion.
Acupuncture doesn’t have to be a scary process. I hope that these facts and activities help make your first visit be a positive and relaxing experience. If you have any questions, please reach out by phone, text, or email at 612-405-3775 or drcarolynlaney@gmail.com.
