Acupuncture needles are extremely fine and flexible. Most people do not suffer discomfort when they are inserted. Most people do not suffer discomfort when acupuncture needles are inserted. Individuals typically experience a slight dull ache around the base of the needle or feel a slight tingle when the needle is actually being inserted. If the acupoint is located on an extremity, such as the end of a toe or finger, there can sometimes be a brief bit of sharp pain, simply because of the sensitivity of those areas.
When Qi is induced, a sensation of tingling, heaviness, numbness, dull ache, a mild electrical impulse, or a slight flow of energy may be felt either at the acupoint or along the meridian channel. These sensations are normal and are called “De Qi,” (arrival of Chi). Because each person and treatment is unique, each acupuncture experience is unique. Some people, as well as some acupoints, have more sensation than others. Acupuncture treatments should be comfortable, and communicating your comfort level to your practitioner will ensure the most effective and enjoyable treatment. The most common experience during treatment is deep relaxation.
True pain associated with acupuncture is usually one (or a combination) of three things:
1. Improper insertion of the needle into a nerve
2. Untrained personnel at the clinic.
3. A patient who is acutely sensitive to sensation.
At our clinic, as with any certified clinic with trained professionals, none of these three things will be an issue. They will all be ruled out prior to any treatment taking place.