FAQ: Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Acupuncture is one of the world’s oldest therapies, used for thousands of years as an alternative to medications. Acupuncture is recommended by many physicians including oncologists, pain management physicians, and mental health practitioners. You may find yourself thinking “That sounds great. But what I really want to know is: “Does acupuncture hurt?” The answer is that for most people, this timeless and effective therapy does not hurt.
What Happens During an Acupuncture Session?
Your first session will be longer than subsequent sessions, as your therapist will conduct a comprehensive medical history evaluation and examination. You may be delightfully surprised to find out just how thorough your practitioner is in asking about your past and current state of health.
Once you’ve completed the examination and evaluation, your therapist will begin your treatment. They will begin inserting the acupuncture needles at strategic acupuncture points (meridians) in your body that correlate with your condition or injury. They may also place the needles in points that correlate with any underlying conditions suspected. The needles may remain in place for roughly 20-30 minutes. The needles work by unblocking what is known as “chi” or energy in the body. By unblocking the flow of life energy, good health is easier to maintain, as balance is restored.
So, Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Pain is subjective. Pain sensations may also be influenced by fears. So, if you happen to be unilaterally afraid of needles, you may go into your appointment anxious and tense. When we are tense, rather than relaxed, the sensation of pain may seem heightened.
Keep in mind that the needles used in acupuncture are tiny. They are much smaller in diameter than a needle used to give a vaccine or get a tattoo, for example. They are also solid, unlike the hollow needles used for drawing blood or other medical conditions. They are made of stainless steel, and some are barely wider than a strand of hair. They also do not penetrate the skin very deeply, and they are inserted between tissues, so they do not penetrate muscle mass.
Each person will have to decide the answer to the question: “Does acupuncture hurt?” for themselves. But it is uncommon for people to find acupuncture painful.
How Will I Feel After My Acupuncture Therapy?
Everyone is unique so you may experience a variety of feelings or sensations following treatment. You may not feel different at all. Or you may experience some or all the following feelings commonly reported after acupuncture therapy:
Relaxed
Euphoric
Tingly
Emotional
Heightened Sensitivity to colors, sounds, smells, surroundings
Increased energy
Tranquility
Nearly all patients find the hours and days after acupuncture treatment to be pleasant. There are no unwanted painful side effects. Indeed, following treatment, you’ll also find “no” to be the answer to the question does acupuncture hurt post-treatment.
Curious About Acupuncture? Book a Consultation in Eugene Today
AboutTouch Massage & Acupuncture is a top-reviewed massage and acupuncture therapy clinic in Lane County. Our certified acupuncturists are experienced and widely recognized for their gentle touch, accurate diagnoses, and effective treatments. To learn more about acupuncture or to schedule your first acupuncture appointment, call us at 541-484-3055
TESTIMONIAL
Incredibly serene massage experience. I felt like a rubber band walking out of here.
Elena is amazing. Not only did her massage work help my back recover from two years of limping on an injured foot, she also gave me resources to help myself. She’s a natural educator who explained the physiology of my back like no other healthcare provider has done. I wouldn’t hesitate to refer others to Elena and About Touch.
I have gone to About Touch two different times. The office is small yet comfortable. I have low back and hip issues from a previous car accident a couple years ago and both times I went in tight and hurting and came out feeling much better. I would and have highly recommend this place to anyone looking for massage therapy.
I stumbled upon About Touch on Google. I made an appointment with Sarah. One massage and I was hooked! I cancelled all of my current massages and now see Sarah on a regular basis. I don’t know what I would do without Sarah and her amazing hands & feet!
Jennifer is wonderful. She’s always very good at finding my sore spots and seems to intuitively know the right amount of pressure to use. I highly recommend her services.
I have been going to Jennifer for therapeutic massage for 7 years. I am so glad we found About Touch! Jennifer helped get my husband back to health after he broke his back. We have bought several gift certificates for friends and family. They have all loved to receive a massage as a gift!
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| Week Days | 9:00 – 7:00 |
| Saturday | 9:00 – 6:00 |
| Sunday | 9:00 – 4:00 |