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Is Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture is considered one of the safest complementary treatments when performed by a qualified practitioner. Adverse effects are rare and typically minor, such as slight bruising or soreness at the needle sites. Compared to other complementary therapies, acupuncture has one of the lowest rates of serious adverse events, making it a safe option for treating various health conditions. Ensuring your practitioner is well-trained and certified further enhances both the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
Does Acupuncture Hurt? Is Acupuncture Painful?
Acupuncture isn’t really painful. The needles used are very fine, much thinner than the hypodermic needles for injections. Often, guide tubes are used to distract the area, and with the finest needles, you may not feel anything at all.
When the sterile needle passes through the skin, there might be a slight sensation, but it’s usually minimal. Common sensations during acupuncture can include a feeling of heaviness, warmth, or a spark-like sensation, though these are typically not uncomfortable. In fact, many patients feel so relaxed that they fall asleep during treatment!
If you're nervous about needles, don't worry—acupuncture is just one approach in Chinese medicine. Techniques like laser acupuncture, acupressure, dermal needle patches, dietary advice, and herbal medicine can also be effective, so you can still benefit without acupuncture itself.
Are Acupuncture Needles Clean and Sterile?
Yes, acupuncture needles are sterilised and used only once before being safely discarded immediately after the treatment.