What are acupuncture needles?
Most modern acupuncturists use disposable stainless steel needles of fine diameter (0.18 to 0.51 mm), sterilized with ethylene oxide or by autoclave. These needles are far smaller in diameter (and therefore less painful) than hypodermic injection needles since they do not have to be hollow for purposes of injection. The upper third of these needles is wound with a thicker wire (typically bronze), or covered in plastic, to stiffen the needle and provide a handle for the acupuncturist to grasp while inserting. The size and type of needle used, and the depth of insertion, depend on the acupuncture style being practiced.
Modern acupuncture needles are from one to three inches long, ultra-fine and quite flexible stainless steel. They are pre-sterilized, non-toxic and disposable. When the needles are tapped into the skin, there may or may not be any sensation. Much depends on the location (hands and feet tend to be more sensitive), the condition being treated and the acupuncturists technique. Typically ten to twenty needles are used each session. Stimulation can be done by rotating the needles manually or attaching electrodes to send a weak electric current through the needles.
