Acupuncture is considered a complementary therapy and is part of traditional Chinese medicine. Records show that acupuncture has been around for over 2,500 years. The main goal of the treatment is to balance the flow of energy, which is known as qi or life force. Acupuncture is used to remove energy blockages throughout our body. Once the pathways are regulated, our emotional, mental, and physical health are likely to improve.
To stimulate specific points along these pathways, it’s essential for practitioners to use solid metal needles. These acupuncture needles will have a round edge, so they don’t cut the skin. Stimulating specific places on our body will trigger and influence our nerves, muscles, and connective tissue.
Does it hurt?
One misconception about acupuncture is that it is painful, and this may be the reason why some people do not want to undergo this treatment. However, acupuncture is unlikely to hurt, and though you may experience some sensations during the treatment, pain is not likely to be an issue.
Some people may feel a heavy and throbbing sensation, which is an indication that the nerves are responding to the needles. Sensations may vary based on individual levels of pain tolerance and overall sensitivity. In fact, certain point in our body, especially those that are activated for the first time, are more sensitive than others.
What does acupuncture feel like?
While the experience will be different from person to person, acupuncture usually does not cause pain and discomfort. Some people may even feel sensations such as heaviness and dullness. These are positive responses, indicating that the treatment is likely to be working.
Often you will not even feel the needles being inserted since they are thin, and they are gently inserted by an experienced and licensed practitioner. Once the needles reach its intended depth, you will just likely feel a mild, dull ache or a slight tingling sensation.
You may also feel an electric sensation which may feel warm and usually originate at the acupoints.
Most often, people feel very relaxed as they find stillness during their treatment and many people even drift off to sleep. Many people report feeling relaxed and sleeping well in the following days and nights.
If you feel anything severe or a sharp pain, you should let your acupuncturist know. Most of the time pain or discomfort will be fleeting and last only a few seconds.
During each treatment session, if you experience pain beyond mild discomfort, you need to speak up and ask your practitioner to proceed slower, insert needles more shallowly, or insert fewer needles.
Overall, acupuncture is a safe and effective complementary therapy which is not likely to result in pain or discomfort. To try out Acupuncture in Mount Evelyn, contact us today!