Do the needles hurt?

No.  The needles we use are very fine and solid needles called filiform needles.  Unlike the needles used for injection (hypodermic needles), which are thick, hollow and meant to pierce the  skin, acupuncture needles are solid and fine.

In comparison, the width of a human hair (ranges from 0.018 to 0.180 mm), while the average acupuncture needle used by our practice is 0.2 mm (some are even smaller).  On the other hand, hypodermic needles can range anywhere from 0.2 mm to over 3mm.

There are various sensations one can feel during the acupuncture treatment such as a quick , light prick, followed by heaviness, pressure, tingling, warmth, coolness or perhaps a slight numbness feeling, but not true pain.  Once the needle or needles are inserted you may feel subtle sensations of “something” moving in various parts of your body. This is very normal and, and in fact, it often brings one’s awareness to one’s own body.  Many people find the experience very relaxing.

Adopted from Helio Acupuncture & Medical Supplies Website