Is acupuncture painful?
It can be when you first start it. Wherever there is really bad chi stagnation or inflamation, the corresponding point can feel anywhere between a light pinch to a painful stab or electric jolt when a needle is placed. It fades away after 10 to 20 minutes, tho I have had bruising and mild discomfort at times.
In our practice we employ the Japanese style of acupuncture which emphasizes shallow insertion of needles with minimal manipulation. In general we use needles made in Japan with the finest gauge. Rarely do patients experience any discomfort. However if our patients are needle phobic it is entirely possible to conduct a treatment using moxa, cupping and even colours to provide the same level of results. We also use specialized equipment designed by Dr Manaka.
Acupuncture is a unique personal experience, everyone reacts differently to the needle insertion, but for most individuals it is virtually painless. Some people feel a sensation of heaviness, an ache or tingling around the area of the needle, this is called “De Qi” or the arrival of Qi. This feeling is an indication that the bodies healing powers have been stimulated. If you find the sensation uncomfortable or disquieting let the practitioner know and they will remove the needle. Sometimes you may feel the needle sensation after the needle has been removed. This is normal and the sensation usually dissipates a few minutes after the needles are removed although in some cases it can last for several hours.
