Don't Fear the Needle

A needle is no wider than this cat's whiskers!

Many patients experience no pain during treatment. If sensitivity to needles is such that you experience pain, a skilled practitioner can adjust the treatment to make you more comfortable. Acupuncture needles vary in size, but all of them are solid, single-use, and no larger than a cat whisker.

Fear of needles is the primary reason that people put off getting treatment with acupuncture. In most cases, the patient is pleasantly surprised to find that the needles are hardly felt at all. Occasionally one may feel a slight pricking or tingling sensation, followed by a sensation of numbness, heaviness or warmth.

If you have a deep aversion to using needles, additional therapies and herbs can assist in the success of your treatment.