Acupuncture - Client Information - Benefits, Risks and Frequently Asked Questions

Added information and Frequently Asked Questions:

Prior to the appointment, patients should.....have eaten recently, not rushed into the appointment and have read and understood all of the pre-treatment information.  If patients are having facial acupuncture, to remove all make-up prior.

How many needles are used? For a unilateral concern (i.e. one side of the body) - up to 7 needles. For a bilateral concern (i.e. both sides of the body) - up to 10 needles. Please note auricular acupuncture should not be combined with body acupuncture (they are separate treatments).

Does acupuncture hurt?  No - Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile needles and is generally very gentle. Most people feel little to no discomfort. You may notice a mild sensation such as warmth, tingling, or a dull ache — this is a normal and positive response. Many clients find treatments deeply relaxing.

How long are the needles in the body for? Approx up to 25 minutes for acute pain, up to 40 minutes for chronic pain. Therefore appointments can last up to 90 minutes. 

What does acupuncture help with? Acupuncture can support a wide range of concerns including stress, anxiety, sleep issues, hormonal imbalance, headaches, digestive problems, chronic or acute pain, and musculoskeletal discomfort. It works by encouraging the body’s natural healing and regulating systems.

What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling? Acupuncture is a holistic treatment that works with the whole body to restore balance and support overall wellbeing. Dry needling is a targeted technique that focuses specifically on tight muscles and trigger points to relieve pain and improve movement.  Both use fine needles, but they are applied differently and for different purposes.

Is dry needling painful? Dry needling can feel more intense than acupuncture, especially when releasing tight muscle areas. Sensations are usually brief and followed by a feeling of relief or improved movement. Any post-treatment soreness typically settles within 24–48 hours.

How many sessions will I need? This varies depending on your symptoms and goals. Some clients notice improvement after one session, while others benefit from a short course of treatments. I recommend (for beneficial gain) four initial sessions within the first two weeks, frequency of follow up appointments are on a case by case basis.

Is acupuncture or dry needling safe? Yes. Both treatments are very safe when performed by a qualified practitioner using sterile, single-use needles. Your medical history will always be considered to ensure treatments are appropriate for you.

Can I bleed? Yes, this can be most common on head points but it is minimal and firm pressure to the area for 2-3 seconds with cotton wool halts the bleeding. 

What should I expect during or after treatment?  During treatment you may feel sensations, a dull ache or slight pins and needles. Afterwards you may feel relaxed, energised, or slightly tired. Some people notice immediate relief, while others experience gradual improvements over the following days. Drinking water and gentle movement are recommended after treatment. Some patients could initially have a potential worsening of symptoms for up to 48 hours.

What are the contraindications? These are rheumatic disorders, unstable patients (i.e. do not have a condition such as diabetes under control), unwell patients, lymphedema in the area, allergies to nickel/zinc (although gold needles can be used as an alternative), active infections (i.e. cellulitis) and bleeding disorders.