Does acupuncture hurt ?
People experience different sensations with acupuncture. Most patients feel only minimal discomfort as needles are inserted; some feel no pain at all. Once needles are in place there should be no significant discomfort. Acupuncture needles are extremely fine and are made from stainless steel. Two or three acupuncture needles would fit inside the barrel of regular needle used for injections.
Benefits of acupuncture?
The World Health Organization supports the use of acupuncture to treat a myriad of pain conditions and has been shown in several studies to offer substantial benefits. How it works: During acupuncture, needles are inserted into a person’s skin at various points on the body. Nerves in the muscles become stimulated and send messages to the central nervous system. The brain begins to release endorphins (natural pain killers) and influences other chemicals (neurotransmitters such as adenosine) associated with pain relief. In fact, acupuncture has been proven to make a difference for those dealing with back pain and chronic headaches.
Any adverse effects to the treatment ?
One of the most striking aspects of acupuncture is almost complete absence of adverse effects and complications from its use. Most patients find that the treatment are relaxing and cause minimal discomfort. Some patients can have fainting spells with the treatment. It is completely reversible with removal of the needles immediately. Women in early pregnancy and hemophiliacs should be treated with caution.