Does Acupuncture Hurt?

This is the #1 most FAQ we get by far.  And we do understand it – most of us don’t love getting shots and IVs put in when we have to either BUT acupuncture needles are nothing like other needles used in medical procedures.  They are:

• Tiny - the width of 2 human hairs
• Solid, not hollow
• Flexible like a cat whisker
• Inserted quickly
• Single-use

When you get acupuncture, you usually will not feel it at all, or you might feel a tiny pinch or sting for a couple seconds – like a 2/10 on the pain scale at most.   The sensation from the needles will change over the course of a treatment after they are inserted.  Sometimes the area around the point will feel a little achy, warm, or cause a quick muscle twitch.  It is normal to feel these things or nothing at all.  We leave our patients with a little bell they can ring if anything feels uncomfortable during a treatment and do a quick check-in after 15 minutes each time. 

All new patients are a bit wary that acupuncture will hurt and can’t imagine what it’s like to lay still for 30 minutes with needles in.  Getting acupuncture has been described by our patients as, “I feel a light pinch and no discomfort.  Sometimes the area of the needles feels warm and heavy during the treatment.” Another says, “For the most part, I barely feel the needles go in and when I do, I just ask my acupuncturist to adjust it.  Then I relax into a dreamy sleepy place until the treatment is done.”

It is our mission to make sure your treatment is completely relaxing and comfortable.  All of Triangle Acupuncture Clinic’s practitioners providing acupuncture in our Raleigh and Chapel Hill office have been practicing for over 10 years (most of us closer to 20!).  No matter what you are coming in to have treated, we know you will leave feeling relaxed, despite the needles!