Does acupuncture hurt? If so, how much does it hurt?
Everybody who has received acupuncture has an opinion on how much it hurts. Hopefully, this will set the record straight.
Given that acupuncture uses needles, there is some degree of sensation on insertion. Though, for most people this sensation is similar to a light pin prick. It must be understood the needles used in acupuncture are very thin and are far thinner than the dermal needles used by your doctor or dentist.
When asked if acupuncture is painful, Dr Wilson often answers that is not pain free but nor is it significantly painful. Various parts of the body have varying degrees of sensitivity to the acupuncture needles. Acupuncture needles can be inserted into the torso with minimal sensation. For instance, Dr Kirk Wilson has had patients who have been unaware he has inserted acupuncture needles into their back. For most patients, acupuncture only really starts to become sensitive once the needles are administered below the elbow or knees. The most sensitive areas to be needled are the hands and the feet.
When you receive acupuncture at Meridian Healing Centre, Dr Wilson will do all that is possible to administer the acupuncture with as little pain as possible. Before your first acupuncture session, Dr Wilson will ask you if you have an issue with needles or if it is your first time receiving an acupuncture. If necessary, he will do his best to adjust the acupuncture protocol to suit your needs.
