What acupuncture actually feels like
The needles used in acupuncture are between 0.16 and 0.30 mm thick, roughly the width of a strand of hair. A standard blood-test needle is around 0.8 mm. Because acupuncture needles are solid rather than hollow, they part the skin rather than cutting it, which is why most people describe the insertion as a light tap or a brief pinch rather than pain.
Once the needle is in place you may feel a dull, heavy or warm sensation around the point. In Traditional Chinese Medicine this is called de qi and is considered a sign the point has been reached. It usually settles within a few seconds. Some points, particularly on the hands, feet and lower legs, are more sensitive than points on the back or abdomen.
When it might feel uncomfortable
Discomfort is more likely if you are tense, dehydrated or have not eaten, and at points close to bone or on tight muscle. A trained practitioner will adjust depth and technique if a point is uncomfortable, and will remove a needle immediately if you ask. Mild bruising or a small drop of blood at a point occasionally happens and is not a cause for concern.
What we do at Omnia to keep it comfortable
Our acupuncturists are members of the British Acupuncture Council and the Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine and use sterile, single-use needles with guide tubes. Your first session starts with a consultation so we understand your sensitivity and any anxiety about needles, and we begin with fewer, shallower needles if that helps. Most people relax within the first ten minutes and many fall asleep during treatment.
If you are nervous about needles
Tell us when you book. We can talk you through each step, start with a single needle so you know what to expect, and use techniques such as acupressure or cupping alongside needling where appropriate. Sessions run for 60 minutes at our clinic in Chiswick, W4, a short walk from Turnham Green station.