Acupuncture generally doesn’t hurt when performed by a licensed acupuncturist. However, though uncommon, some people may report needle site pain or other side effects.
Acupuncture stimulates specific points along the body using thin, solid metal needles to penetrate the skin. Acupuncture needles have a round edge, so they don’t cut the skin. Stimulating these places on the body influences your nerves, muscles, and connective tissue.
Acupuncture doesn’t usually hurt when performed by a licensed practitioner.
Practitioners most commonly use acupuncture to help manage pain, as it may increase the body’s natural painkillers. People also receive acupuncture to promote overall wellness and reduce stress.
Keep reading to learn about the possible side effects of acupuncture, including pain where the needles are inserted.
Acupuncture isn’t meant to cause pain.
Most people who receive acupuncture do not report pain or other complaints, according to the
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- an overall satisfaction of 8.4 out of 10
- relaxation of 8.2 out of 10
- anxiety reduction of 7.7 out of 10
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But, you may experience some sensations during your treatment. What you feel may vary depending on your pain tolerance and overall sensitivity.
Sometimes, your first acupuncture treatment may be more painful than the following treatments. This may be because you are anxious or nervous about the treatment. The needling may also affect certain energy points or nerves in your body for the first time. As you get used to it and learn what to expect, your body will likely become more relaxed in future sessions, so it may hurt less or not at all.
While the experience is different for everyone, acupuncture usually doesn’t cause discomfort or pain.
Often, you won’t feel the needles being inserted because they are thin and inserted gently. Many acupuncturists also use guide tubes that rest on the skin before the needle is inserted. This helps guide the needle in straight and quickly, and this initial sensation on your skin can distract your nerves and pain receptors when the needle is inserted, which may mean you won’t feel the needle going in much or at all.
Once a needle reaches its intended depth, you may feel a mild, dull ache or a slight tingling sensation. This typically indicates that the acupuncture is working and the acupuncture point is being activated. You may also feel:
- a heavy sensation
- a pulsing sensation
- feelings of warmth
If you feel severe or sharp pain, you should let your acupuncturist know. Most of the time, pain or discomfort is fleeting and lasts only a few seconds.
Some aspects of receiving acupuncture may increase the pain you feel. This can include:
- using higher-gauge (thicker) needles
- inserting needles more deeply or more forcefully
- certain brands of needles
It’s important to see only licensed and experienced acupuncturists for treatment.
Let your acupuncturist know if you’re experiencing pain beyond mild discomfort. You can also ask your practitioner to proceed slower, use fewer needles, insert them more shallowly, and manipulate them less.
You may also decide to try a different practitioner with a different technique.
More painful pressure points
Some points may be more sensitive than others.
If a needle hits a small nerve, muscle, or blood vessel, you may feel some pain or a more intense sensation. A single sensation is usually not a reason to be alarmed as long as it’s brief.
Points on the extremities may produce stronger reactions in the form of dull aches or tingling sensations. Points where there is less flesh, such as near the nails, can sometimes produce a sharper sensation. These sensations are typically short-lived.
An acupuncture session often lasts between 30 and 90 minutes.
Some of the time will be spent discussing your reasons for acupuncture with your practitioner. Depending on your condition and how in-depth this conversation is, some sessions may last longer, especially your first.
Needles are usually kept in place for 10 to 30 minutes. During this time, you’ll lie still. Some people enter a very relaxed state or fall asleep.
Practitioners may recommend a few steps to take care of yourself after your treatment, especially during the first 24 hours.
- Rest and take it easy, even if you feel energized. Avoid any strenuous activities.
- Eat healthy foods including fruits, vegetables, and protein. Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
- Avoid using ice packs, as they may interfere with your body’s energy flow. However, you can use heat packs.
- You can usually receive a massage. This
mayTrusted Source enhance the benefits of acupuncture for some conditions, like cervical spondylosis.
Usually, the pain you experience during treatment subsides when the treatment stops. You may have some pain or intensified symptoms for a few days following treatment. They should begin to improve within a few days.
Any mild bruising that happens as a result of treatment will usually clear up within a few days.
Contact your doctor or acupuncturist if you experience any unusual symptoms after your treatment.
Only licensed practitioners are allowed to perform acupuncture in the United States. Training, exam, and licensure requirements can vary among states.
Having acupuncture performed by a licensed acupuncturist can reduce your risk of side effects.
You can find a licensed acupuncturist through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
If you’re interested in acupuncture but concerned about pain, it’s best to speak with your practitioner about your concerns. Having open communication may help reduce your concerns.
Talk with a doctor before starting any acupuncture treatment program.
You can discuss which results you wish to achieve. This is especially important if you have any medical conditions you wish to treat or are taking any medications. Your doctor may also be able to recommend an acupuncturist suited to your specific needs.