One of the most common misconception about acupuncture is that it must be painful because it involves needles. However, acupuncture is usually painless since the needles used are as thin as a hair. First time patients often express their surprise at how different the experience is from what they had envisioned.

Before the first treatment, I take a moment to inform patients that they may experience a sensation called the “de qi” sensation. This refers to the arrival of energy to the acupuncture point. This sensation is often described as feeling of numbness, tingling, distension, heaviness, warmth, or a radiating feeling. These sensations are desirable as they indicate that the treatment is having the intended effect on the body. These sensations typically dissipate within a few seconds, leaving the patient in a calm state. In fact, many patients find acupuncture so relaxing that they fall asleep during treatment. Despite the common fear of needles, most people find acupuncture to be a comfortable, soothing, and even enjoyable experience.