Therapies... - Acupuncture - Needle Notes

For most people, the thought of having needles inserted into the body evokes unpleasant memories of vaccination sessions at the doctor. However, acupuncture is quite different.

Needles are inserted in less sensitive areas of the body and most people feel only an initial minimal pain that quickly subsides. The stainless steel needles are very small (0.022 - 0.025mm thick), about the thickness of a human hair, and have smooth points. Two to three acupuncture needles can fit in the barrel of a regular hypodermic needle. They are also less painful than a hypodermic injection, with its sharp cutting edge.

The number of needles used varies from two to fifteen. In general, six to eight needles are used per session. Needles may also be very short and have a circular end that is covered with adhesive for special applications. This technique is commonly used for treating situations of substance abuse where the needle is adhered to a point on the ear and can be stimulated when the individual experiences withdrawal symptoms.

In addition to small needles, your acupuncturist may use a mild electrical current to stimulate acupuncture points. The current is applied either through small electrodes placed on the skin or needles that have already been inserted.