Why You Shouldn't Fear Acupuncture Needles
If you have chronic aches or difficulty sleeping, acupuncture may be the answer since it comes with a growing number of health benefits. However, one of the downsides of this alternative treatment is that you may be absolutely terrified of needles. However the needles from an acupuncture treatment do not hurt. There are several reasons why you shouldn't be afraid of acupuncture needles.
The Needles Are Very Thin
Needle width is measured in terms of its gauge. The larger the number, the smaller the gauge. Acupuncture needles are among the thinnest needles. Some are even smaller than human hair. Unlike hypodermic needles, which must be wide enough to be hollow and allow for a medicine to pass through, acupuncture needles are much thinner. As a result, when a needle is inserted, you feel nothing more than a tingle.
You Are In Control Of The Process
Acupuncturists use whatever pace you feel most comfortable with when placing the needle. Make sure that you tell the acupuncturist about whether there is a specific needle that you would like to have removed. Tell the acupuncturist that this is your first time receiving this treatment. He or she will likely explain the procedure in detail.
There Are Ways To Make Acupuncture Less Intimidating
Some patients prefer to not have the needles injected into their arms. One, placing a needle in an arm is associated with the less-than-pleasant hypodermic needles inserted into arms when receiving a shot. By not having the needle inserted into the arm, you are less likely to see it. In fact, you could lay face down on a massage table and have all of the needles inserted into your back.
The Process Used Is Very Sanitary
Acupuncturists follow careful sanitation practices to make sure that the needles and the site where they will be injected are perfectly sanitized. For example, the site of the injection will usually be sanitized with a cotton ball and rubbing alcohol. Some acupuncturists completely discard their needles, while others sanitize them in-between patients. A clean cotton ball is used to close the site of the injection afterward.
You Can Distract Yourself
Often, you are allowed to listen to music while you undergo an acupuncture treatment. Alternatively, you could sleep or meditate. You will still experience the benefits of acupuncture even if you are not conscious during the treatment.