"I'm Afraid of Needles!"

A Step-By-Step Guide for a Positive Acupuncture Experience

by Cailin O'Hara, MAcOM, LAc, Dipl OM

Are you interested in trying acupuncture but worry that it may hurt? Are you afraid of needles? Well, you've come to the right place! While it's impossible to know how acupuncture feels until you've tried it, you can educate yourself about the experience and what to expect. This step-by-step guide will show you how.

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Step 1: Do your research

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Every acupuncturist is different. We all have varying styles and approaches. Some may be a better fit for you than others. The problem is... how do you do your research when you don't even know what you're looking for? Here's a list of questions you can ask to help get you started...

1) Can you tell me about your training and credentials?

Not everyone that practices acupuncture has the same training or credentials. In general, in order to become a licensed acupuncturist (LAc), one must:

A) go through rigorous study and training over the course of 3-4 years to acquire a master's degree in Chinese medicine and

B) pass board exams to become board certified

In addition to education and credentials, ask about your acupuncturist's additional trainings and areas of focus. This will give you a better understanding of their interests and what you might expect with treatments. 

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2) What is an appointment with you like?

Yes, you can ask this question! If you don't know what to expect, ask as many questions as you need to in order to get a better understanding. Some acupuncturists offer free consultations. That's a great place to start. Ask how long appointments last, how frequently you will need to go in, how the treatment itself will feel, etc. 

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3) What are your treatment types or specialties?

In the scope of Chinese medicine, there are many treatment options. Ask your acupuncturist what types of treatments they offer. Do you have a particular health concern, like pain or fatigue, that you want to address? Ask if your acupuncturist works with those things, and ask if they have any specialties. 

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Step 2: Choose an acupuncturist

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After you've spoken to some acupuncturists in your area, choose one that feels like a good fit for you. Ask yourself these questions...

Do we resonate well together?
Do I feel heard and understood?
Do I feel like I can ask questions and get clear answers?

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After you've done your research, you'll have answers to these questions. Then it's time to schedule your appointment!

You may be wondering, "but I said I'm afraid of needles!" Check out step 3.

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Step 3: Schedule an appointment

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You've done your research, and you've found an acupuncturist that meets your needs. This is the key to having a positive acupuncture experience. 

​Does acupuncture hurt?
What if I'm afraid of needles?

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The answer to these questions depends on the rapport and relationship you have with your acupuncturist. 

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Here's the thing... acupuncture isn't painful when you feel comfortable with the treatment and when it's performed correctly by a professional.

Acupuncture is an experience. It generates sensations in the body. It can soothe the mind and neutralize pain. You may feel buzzing, tingling or heaviness where the needles have been inserted. You may be overcome with a sense of deep relaxation and enter a dreaming state. However, the needles are so thin that you may not even notice them at all. 

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The bottom line? You don't have to worry. If you hate the idea of needles, we acupuncturists have other tools (like cupping, acupressure and ear seeds) to introduce you to the medicine. And when you feel ready, trust that you have chosen the right acupuncturist for you and be open to the positive experience acupuncture. 

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Questions? Contact us!

About Cailin O'Hara