Do Acupuncture Needles Really Hurt?
Insertion of hair-thin, sterilized acupuncture needles is rarely painful. Sensation during insertion ranges from no feeling whatsoever to that of a mild mosquito bite due to the localized pressure of moving the cells aside. Once inserted, a needle can then be adjusted if the patient still feels any discomfort. An acupuncturist may sometimes gently manipulate the needles after insertion in order to stimulate the arrival of Qi to the treatment area. This facilitates communication between the needles, the brain and the various organs and tissues of the body. Patients describe the various sensations experienced with the arrival of Qi as a mild degree of warming, heaviness, numbing, distending or tingling. Most patients find themselves quite surprised at how relaxing an acupuncture treatment really is and, as the brain begins to secrete endorphins (morphine-like, sedative hormones) many actually fall into a deep, rejuvenating sleep.
