The short answer is no, the long answer is maybe. In general, patients either feel nothing or a very slight twinge during acupuncture. The sensation, if any is brief and not harmful. In some instances, especially in more severe conditions, the sensation may be a little unpleasant, but that usually resolves in a few seconds. Some points have a characteristic mild, somewhat electrical sensation. This usually occurs for a few seconds after the initial insertion.
Acupuncture needles are much finer than a hypodermic needle; about 20-30 acupuncture needles could fit inside a hypodermic. Acupuncture needles are also solid, while a hypodermic is hollow. Hypodermics gouge out a piece of flesh while acupuncture needles do not.
How deep do the needles go?
That greatly depends on the location of the point. Typically, the needles are inserted from .1 to 1 inch deep, may be inserted perpendicularly (straight in), or at an angle (subcutaneously). A variety of factors, such as the patient's age, size, underlying anatomy, and existing conditions must be considered.
Are needles ever re-used?
No. In the United States, particularly in North Carolina, acupuncturists use Sterile, individually packaged, Disposable needles. Once removed, the needles are put into a "Sharps" container and eventually disposed of as medical waste. The needles are NEVER used twice, not even on the same person.
How many needles are used in an typical treatment?
Well, there really is no "typical" treatment. A variety of factors, such as the patient's pattern discrimination, age, and general state of health influence the needle count. That being said, I typically use between 8-12 needles during a treatment. Each case is different and the number selected has nothing to do with the convenience of the acupuncturist.
How many treatments will I need?
This is yet another question for which there is no definitive answer. As with the prior question, age, general health, pattern discrimination, lifestyle, environment, and a multitude of other factors must be considered. Most chronic conditions don't resolve in a single office visit, while some acute conditions do. Regardless of the medical method, any prognosis made during the first visit is essentially an educated guess. During the follow-up appointment, with the benefit of knowing the outcome of the first treatment, a more accurate assessment can be made. Our pledge to you is to never recommend any unnecessary appointments nor products. We treat you the very same we would want our mothers to be treated.