05/26/2026
As acupuncturists, one of the most common questions we get from new patients is: Does acupuncture hurt? The short answer is no — acupuncture should not be painful.
That said, some areas of the body can be a little more sensitive, such as around the wrists or feet, but the goal is never to cause pain. A normal sensation patients may experience is a tingling, heavy, dull, or achy feeling, which we call De Qi. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this is considered the arrival or activation of Qi in that area and is a normal response to treatment.
If a patient feels sharp or ongoing pain, it usually means the needle may need to be repositioned. Overall, acupuncture is meant to be a relaxing experience. When the body is calm and relaxed, it is often more receptive to treatment.
