What To Expect from Acupuncture

I've had the privilege of working at an acupuncture clinic for 9 months, receiving the benefit of free acupuncture treatments. I answered phones and grew familiar with frequently asked questions of new patients.

The world of acupuncture can feel intimidating to say the least and scary to most people afraid of eastern medicine. The good news is that what many people see as part of a "new age" movement is really an "old age" practice that has been introduced in the west. Before modern medicine, these eastern practices were the norm to most of the world. So, here are some answers to the questions you have but are afraid to ask:

Will it hurt?

Typically these hair-thin, pliable needles can barely be felt. I've even seen seven-year-old boys take the plunge for allergy treatments. I actually think an ant bite is more painful. The only sensitive parts of the body are the pads of the hands and feet, and typically, most treatments don't require needles in these sensitive parts. And if you're really afraid of needles, ask your acupuncturist if they have J-type, one-inch Seiren needles. These needles are the least painful of all the needles. Your acupuncturist will be impressed that you even know that much!

Is there a religion backing up acupuncture? Will I be going against my religious background?