What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?
Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will feel like hypodermic injections at the doctor’s office. They won't. Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that you will hardly feel when inserted. When gently stimulated, the needles they may produce a unique sensation that Oriental medicine calls de qi. Patients often describe de qi as a heavy, achy pressure, or spreading, traveling feeling. You may also feel an "electrical" sensation moving down the meridian pathways, though this is less common. Most patients find these acupuncture sensations deeply satisfying and leave the treatment feeling relaxed both mentally and physically.
Is it painful?
You should feel no pain during your session. Most people feel a deep sensation of relaxation during their treatment. While certain points may be somewhat tender, a slight pinch upon insertion of the needle is not uncommon for locations experiencing a heavy blockage of energy.
Acupuncture treatment creates deep relaxation
in both mind and body.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more than one treatment is usually necessary. For acute conditions you can expect to have 10 to 15 treatments, but you will usually begin to feel relief after just the first few. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond, depending on the type, severity, and duration of the condition. Preventative treatments and treatments for general well-being may also be scheduled on an as-needed basis.
