Don't Sit On Pins And Needles- Find Out Now If Acupuncture Hurts!
Acupuncture has been shown to help treat the pain and symptoms associated with a number of conditions, including allergies, depression, headaches, hypertension, pregnancy and labor pain, sciatica, arthritis, and ongoing pain in shoulders, back, neck, knee, arms or legs. It is believed that the needles trigger a response in the body which helps to heal and ease the pain in the area the needles are introduced. If you are considering using acupuncture to treat your condition, you may be worried about the pain associated with using needles on your body. Many people are anxious and have questions about this. Here are a few of the questions you may have and the answers.
Does Acupuncture Hurts?
Everyone has their own tolerance level to pain. As such, it can be hard to say that acupuncture will not hurt. However, for most people, acupuncture does not hurt. For those who do say it can hurt, they primarily feel pain when the needle is injected. This can feel like a small pinch or sting, but usually goes away really quickly. Additionally, certain parts of the body are more sensitive than others. Placing needles on your toes is more likely to hurt compared to placing needles along a fatty portion of your lower arm.
What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?
Most people who get acupuncture say that they do not feel anything. Others who get acupuncture state that they can feel the heaviness or weight of the needles as they are breathing, but that it is not painful. Other people report a small pinch when the needle is inserted. People have different experiences, and as such, describe the feeling of acupuncture slightly differently.
What Can Be Done to Lessen the Pain?
There are a few things that can be done to lessen the pain if you do find acupuncture uncomfortable. The first is to talk to your acupuncturist about the pain. They can use smaller needles or adjust the depth that the needles are inserted to decrease your pain level. The second option is to use breathing and relaxation techniques. This can help you to zone out while the process is being done. Lastly, you can consider using an over-the-counter pain reliever about an hour or so prior to your appointment to decrease your pain level.
There is no reason to be anxious, nervous or scared before having acupuncture done. For many people, the nervousness they feel before the appointment is not warranted. If you are nervous about having acupuncture done, talk to the acupuncturist. They can work with you to minimize any fears or discomfort you may have, ensure you are comfortable during the procedure.
