Does acupuncture hurt?

If you’ve never had acupuncture before, it’s natural to wonder: Does it hurt? The short answer is—usually not! Acupuncture needles are incredibly fine, much thinner than the ones used for injections or blood tests. I use guide tubes for insertion, which makes the process even smoother and virtually painless. Most people don’t feel a thing, and if they do, it’s usually just a tiny pinch that disappears in an instant.

Once the needles are in place, I may gently adjust them to create a sensation known as De Qi. This can feel like a dull ache, a spreading sensation, or even warmth in the area. It’s not painful—more like an interesting, therapeutic feeling that shows the treatment is working.

However, if you’re nervous about the idea of any sensation, don’t worry! I can adjust my technique to be as gentle as possible, minimising manipulation to keep everything comfortable. And if needles really aren’t your thing, I offer other effective therapies like moxibustion, cupping, and gua sha, which don’t involve needles at all.

Acupuncture is meant to be relaxing, not scary. If you have any concerns, just let me know—I’ll make sure your experience is calm, comfortable, and pain-free.

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