Acupuncture needles are extremely thin and small. They are about as thick as a human hair. Because these needles are nothing like hypodermic needles that are used to draw blood they are virtually painless. During the treatment the patient comfortably rests on a massage table. After the needle is shallowly inserted only a few millimeters into the skin most patients feel a slight tingling sensation or pulsation.
Eventually the tingling sensation can spread to the whole body. Almost immediately after a few needles are inserted in to the body, they become gently relaxed and sometimes a little sleepy. The needles are left in approximately 15-30 minutes depending on the condition being treated.
During this time the patient rests quietly with dimmed lights and if they choose soft, gentle music. After the needles are removed the patient feels rested and relaxed. Most notice that their pain is greatly reduced and they feel a little lighter all over. Most patients can return to work and their normal daily activities about ten minutes after treatment.