What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Once a needle reaches its intended depth, you’re likely to feel a mild, dull ache or a slight tingling sensation . This may be a sign that the treatment is working and the acupuncture point is being activated. You may also feel a heavy or electric sensation. Feelings of warmth may arise at the acupuncture points.

What are the negative side effects of acupuncture?

  • Worse Symptoms. Although most people feel better after having acupuncture done, some do feel worse before they get better. ...
  • Fatigue. ...
  • Soreness. ...
  • Bruising. ...
  • Muscle Twitching. ...
  • Lightheadedness. ...
  • Emotional Release.

Do you feel weird after acupuncture?

After acupuncture treatment, some people feel relaxed and calm , while others feel alert and energised. In some cases, acupuncture can leave you feeling tired and lethargic for a few hours following your treatment session.

How long does it take to feel the effects of acupuncture?

After two or three sessions , you should start to notice improvements in certain areas. Eventually, you will observe an overall sense of wellness, including your psychological and physical health.

Can you feel the needles in acupuncture?

The needles are very thin, so insertion usually causes little discomfort. People often don’t feel them inserted at all . Between five and 20 needles are used in a typical treatment. You may feel a mild aching sensation when a needle reaches the correct depth.

Should you drink water after acupuncture?

Rehydrate with water.

You may actually feel quite thirsty after the session, so go ahead and drink as much water as you can hold . Staying hydrated after acupuncture is crucial to helping the body flush out the toxins, as well as replenish and restore the balance in your system.

What should you not do after acupuncture?

  • Strenuous Exercise. You don’t have to avoid exercise altogether, but it would probably be best to slow down a bit. ...
  • Caffeine. ...
  • Alcohol. ...
  • Junk Food. ...
  • Ice. ...
  • TV and Other Screens.

Does acupuncture make you poop?

According to licensed acupuncturist Dr. Kim Peirano, DACM, LAc, acupressure promotes peristalsis , the movement of your intestinal muscles. This helps move stool through your digestive system. The practice also activates the vagus nerve, which is involved in healthy digestive function.

How often should you have acupuncture?

For instance, we often suggest getting acupuncture treatment two or three times a week for the first few weeks . After that initial series of acupuncture treatments, you might only need a “tune-up” treatment session once a week or every couple of weeks to maintain your health.

What happens to your body after acupuncture?

Body parts where acupuncture needles get inserted can feel sore after needles are removed . Soreness from acupuncture typically dissipates within 24 hours. Although less common than soreness, bruising can occur at the needling site. These bruises usually don’t hurt and last a few days after the treatment.

How can you tell if acupuncture is working?

  • Your pain will change. The key word here is change: change in location, severity, or intensity. ...
  • Your sleep could improve (or change) ...
  • Your mood will improve. ...
  • You’ll be more aware of your body. ...
  • You’ll have more energy.

Is it normal to cry after acupuncture?

It is very possible to cry during or after acupuncture . Along with the physical parts of you becoming “unstuck,” emotions become free-flowing as well. The emotional release that can happen in acupuncture is often unexpected, but it is generally a very positive experience.

Do you get immediate relief from acupuncture?

You may not experience immediate pain relief from your first acupuncture treatment (although many patients do). A typical treatment course is six to 10 visits, and we generally expect to see some improvement by the sixth visit.

How far do acupuncture needles go in?

Generally the needles are inserted approximately 1⁄4- to 1⁄2-inch deep .

What happens if acupuncture goes wrong?

If acupuncture is done wrong, and even if it is done right sometimes, there can be acupuncture side effects. This is generally a very safe form of therapy, but it can result in side effects such as: Pain caused by the needles being pushed through the skin .

Is acupuncture worth the money?

Acupuncture is recognized as safe and beneficial for many conditions , but it’s not a cure-all for everything — you should still be taking your medications. But while it may not eliminate your symptoms, it could still ease them. So it may be worth a try, especially when it comes to chronic pain.

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.