Does Acupuncture Hurt? Answered By a Houston Acupuncturist

First-timers always ask this and this is a very valid question! Acupuncture is NOT meant to be painful at all. In reality, it is a very zen-spa-like experience. You will lay on a heated table with a heat lamp on your feet, an ergonomic pillow, and a bolster under your knees. This is a cozy position to take a 28-minute nap (that’s the amount of time needed to get the energy to move around the entire body), even if you aren’t a back sleeper.  

I was frightened of needles growing up. I hated injections and would often cry at a blood draw.  I understand how people think that both needs are the same, but an acupuncture needle is NOT like that AT ALL!  Acupuncture needles are thinner and more solid than medical needles. Also, years of development bore several hundreds of types of acupuncture needles, varying in width, length, and function. There are needles we use specifically for children, facial acupuncture, and even gold-lined needles. For kids we don’t use the term “needle” we call it “taps” – helps with easing acupuncture needle beliefs at an early age!

Acupuncturists are certified in clean needle technique, it is just one of many requirements to be licensed under the Texas Medical Board. This is a semester-long course, with a live proctored exam as well as a written exam. To become licensed, acupuncturists must meet many requirements, such as:

• A 4-year master’s degree with 1800 hours of acupuncture, herbal, and traditional Chinese medicine training
• 2 years in the clinical setting, seeing at least 500 patients
• 6 board exams 

Rest assured, we are fully committed to easing your pain and providing the best possible treatment!

What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?

What and where you feel the needle will depend on how sensitive you are and on your pain tolerance. Some points are also more sensitive than others. I warn patients before doing tender points. If a woman is on her menstrual cycle, she can tend to be more sensitive and feel discomfort easier. I make sure that I walk patients through the process so they feel more at ease.

Common sensations upon insertion of the needle:

• Tingling
• Dull ache or throb
• Heaviness
• Lightness
• Pulsing 
• Energy, like more blood flow to an area
• Warmth 

It is also common to feel things in other parts of the body (not where the needle is located).  These are not sensations that are scary or painful, it’s just when you are lying in stillness and very relaxed you become aware of things you normally wouldn’t. Also, getting acupuncture does help you become more connected, more in tune, and more aware of your body.  You may realize different things like where you hold tension. Sometimes when we are busy or in a constant state of fight or flight we become out of touch with our body or ignore signs. We can also lose touch with sensations. 

Patients describe an ache or can feel very heavy on the table or as if they are lighter, almost floating sensations. Some feel less tension like a weight has been lifted. The majority of the time, you will feel good, with positive side effects. Ultimately the goal is for you to fall asleep and take a rejuvenating nap. If you don’t, that’s fine! We just want you to be fully relaxed and stress-free. 

Calm your monkey mind, meditate, or do some deep breathing to help you relax. I apply essential oils first that will relax the body and mind and then apply needles. This is discussed in your first confirmation email, and when you come in. You are fully aware of all the steps so nothing is a surprise.

Many times, my patients who come in with digestive issues will feel their stomach moving and or it will make noise. I say that their belly is talking to me! 😅

When pregnant patients come in, they either feel their baby relax or change positions, many times we can see the belly moving. I say their baby is greeting me! 

Things you shouldn’t or won’t feel while the treatment is ongoing:

• Pain
• Sharp, prickling sensation
• Burning 

If by any chance you do, it will be very quick, only lasting seconds. If a patient feels any of the above I immediately take the needle out or reposition it. The goal is NOT to cause pain or be uncomfortable, so I will talk you through the process from beginning to end. 

What I Do To Help You Get Acquainted With Needles?

When I have patients who are very nervous, anxious, and scared of needles, I tend to start with pediatric or facial needles. I do a “test” needle just so patients are prepared for what is to come. Once I do a quick needle tap-in, they realize there is nothing to worry about. 

If you are super scared, then I often ask patients to breathe deeply and when they do a big exhale, I will insert the needle. 

Another trick is to cough! This works well as a distraction. Once we do a few needles, patients become more relaxed and less worried or concerned about pain as we continue.

Another fun party trick I love to share is pressing on the #1 pain point in the body—Large Intestine 4 (LI4)—a popular spot on the hand. This point is well-known for relieving headaches and virtually any type of pain. Once I apply pressure here and the patient feels how intense and sensitive it is, I always reassure them that the needle will NOT feel anything like this at all.

Client success: The only time I have ever really had a patient be terrified of needles, we only used pediatric needles. He didn’t love acupuncture but it was so helpful for so many things that he continued coming!

Acupuncture Needles

As I said before, needles can come in all sizes widths, and lengths. I also tend to use a variety of sizes on a patient. 

For example, I always use cosmetic needles for anything on the face, even if it is just one needle. I tend to go deeper on two specific points: Spleen 9, which is great for draining dampness and is often quite sore, and Gallbladder 34, known for relaxing the tendons. Almost everyone gets both of these points because they are highly effective for addressing digestion and pain issues.

On average, I use about 10 needles per patient, though this number may increase if the patient is face down, especially for pain-focused or targeted treatments. The largest needles are typically used in the glutes or other muscular areas, where deeper penetration is needed.

Lastly, the one sensation you’ll feel is the tube that guides the needle. This tube touches the skin briefly, and I tap it in quickly to make the process smoother and minimize discomfort.

Quick Story Time!

My firstborn started getting needled at 3 months old. He got acupuncture for a sleep regression and it was quite helpful. He has always loved acupuncture and asks for it regularly! He loves essential oils, tui na (therapeutic Chinese massage), and all things mom does. It’s been amazing to see how these therapies have become such a positive part of his routine!

What Does A Typical Acupuncture Treatment Look Like?  

Each acupuncture clinic has its own approach to client care and treatment. Here’s an overview of how we do things at Natural Point Acupuncture.

Pre-Treatment

First, I email you an appointment confirmation with your paperwork (about 11 pages of in-depth questions) and signing off on Consent of Treatment. Once you come in for the first time, we go over your biggest concerns, some recent health factors, and an overview of traditional Chinese medicine and how acupuncture works.  

Some common questions I ask before treatment are:  

• How are you sleeping?
• How is your digestion?
• What does your pain feel like? 
• Is your pain worse upon waking or at the end of the day, before sleep?  

These questions – and more – help me get a comprehensive view of your overall health, allowing us to zero in on your main concerns. After we’ve covered everything, I’ll provide a brief overview of acupuncture and discuss the specific methods we may need to explore such as:

• Do you need supplements? 
• What about herbs?  
• What about something topical for flare-ups of pain?  
• Schedule future appointments.  

For best results, cumulative treatments provide the most efficient, longest-lasting effects. We want appointments as close together as possible. That looks like two appointments a week, in the first few weeks. Then once a week until we schedule monthly depending on the person, availability, and what we are treating.  

During Treatment

Once you’re lying on the table, I’ll check if you’re comfortable with the temperature. Is the table too warm? Are you okay with the heat lamp? If you’re feeling cold, additional blankets or sheets are available! 

Once you’re settled, I apply a variety of calming essential oils to help ease any nerves. These typically go on the bottoms of your feet first, followed by oils designed to relax the muscles in your legs, arms, and shoulders. I also apply hormone-balancing oils on the inside of your legs and digestive oils on your belly. At this point, you should feel comfortable and deeply relaxed. I’ll walk you through the points that might feel more sensitive. 

Majority of the time patients don’t feel a lot and can relax knowing that it is NOT painful and they were worried for nothing!  

Post-Treatment

After the treatment, I’ll remove the needles and check in with you about how you’re feeling. Some patients report an immediate sense of calm or relief, while others notice gradual improvements over the next few days. It’s normal to feel a bit drowsy or deeply relaxed after your session.

Before you leave, I provide aftercare recommendations tailored to your treatment goals. This might include staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities, or tips to prolong the effects of the session. If needed, we’ll discuss follow-up appointments to ensure consistent progress.

Each treatment builds on the last, so it’s important to listen to your body and communicate any changes or concerns. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way!

Other Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear when getting an acupuncture?

You can wear anything to an acupuncture session, but loose-fitting clothing works best for easy access to areas like below the knees and elbows. Avoid skinny jeans or tight leggings that restrict circulation when rolled up, and dresses may not be ideal if stomach access is needed. Patients can dress or undress to their comfort level, and with our warm environment, you’ll stay at a comfortable temperature. For face-down treatments, it’s often best to undress, leaving undergarments on, to allow access to the lower back and glutes.  You will then be covered by a sheet or blanket. 

How long is an appointment?

First-time appointments typically take 1-2 hours, averaging around 1.5 hours. If concerns were already discussed over the phone or the patient has no additional complaints, or questions the session may last about an hour. Follow-ups are usually shorter—around 45 minutes—with 28 minutes spent on the table and a brief discussion of how you’re feeling during the session.

Ready For Your Acupuncture Treatment?

Acupuncture is a safe, relaxing, and personalized treatment designed to address your unique concerns. Whether it’s your first session or a follow-up, you can expect a calming experience that promotes healing and balance. With clear guidance, expert care, and a warm environment, we ensure your comfort every step of the way. Ready to begin your wellness journey? Book your appointment at Natural Point Acupuncture today!