Frequently asked questions
Acupuncture is often surrounded by questions — especially if you’ve never tried it before.
This FAQ page answers the most common questions people ask about acupuncture, including whether it hurts, how it works, safety considerations, pregnancy, and how it differs from dry needling.
The information below is based on clinical experience, traditional practice, and current research — so you can make an informed, comfortable decision about whether acupuncture is right for you.
Does acupuncture hurt or cause discomfort?
Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are slender and solid, designed for minimal skin disruption. Inserted at shallow depths, usually no more than 1/2 inch to an inch, these hair-thin needles typically evoke only mild sensations during the insertion process. While individual experiences may vary, many people report minimal discomfort, with some even describing feelings of excitement or relaxation during their acupuncture sessions. The practice, deeply rooted in ancient wisdom, emphasizes a gentle and minimally invasive approach to promote holistic well-being.
Are acupuncture needles reused?
Never. At our practice, every acupuncture or dry-needling needle is sterile, individually sealed, disposable — and used only once. Before your treatment begins, I open a brand-new pack; after use, the needle is placed directly into a biohazard sharps container.
We follow internationally accepted safety and hygiene standards. This ensures that your sessions remain safe, comfortable and free from risk of cross-contamination.
Using single-use needles minimizes any risk of infection or transmission of blood-borne pathogens — which is why most professional acupuncture organisations mandate this approach. If you have any questions or concerns about hygiene or safety, feel free to ask — I’m always happy to explain. Your well-being is my priority.
Is acupuncture the same as dry needling? (Dry needling is what chiropractors and physiotherapist use)
While both acupuncture and dry needling use fine, solid needles, they are based on different traditions and serve different purposes — so they are not the same.
Acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where needles are placed along energy meridians to help balance the body’s flow of “Qi,” aiming at overall wellbeing and supporting body–mind harmony. (You can read more about this approach in Balancing the Flow: TCM Wisdom for Kidney and Bladder Health).
Dry needling, by contrast, is based on Western physiotherapy and anatomy. It targets specific muscles and myofascial trigger-points — tight “knots” or bands of muscle — to relieve pain or improve mobility.
Because the underlying philosophy and goals differ, the choice between acupuncture or dry needling depends on your specific health needs, beliefs and treatment goals.
Are acupuncture points real?
The notion of acupuncture points and meridians originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine, where these points are viewed as part of an energetic network through which vital energy (Qi) flows. Within this traditional framework, acupoints function as portals for balancing and influencing health across body, mind, and spirit.
From a modern biomedical perspective, research over recent decades has identified that many acupuncture points correspond to fascia planes, connective tissue, neurovascular bundles or areas rich in nerve endings and blood vessels. These anatomical structures are distributed throughout the body — which provides a plausible anatomical substrate for many classical acupoints. Pubmed review of evidence .
This overlap does not prove that all traditional meridians (or the concept of Qi) exist exactly as classical texts describe. Many studies still find inconsistencies, and researchers continue to debate whether meridians correspond fully with measurable anatomical networks. Medical Acpuncture
Bottom line: Acupuncture points are “real” in the sense that needling or stimulating specific points on the body can produce measurable physiological responses — likely via connective tissue, nerve stimulation, or vascular changes. Whether or not these points correspond to classical meridians or “energy flows” depends on the framework (traditional vs biomedical) you use. Because evidence is still evolving, I approach acupuncture as a therapy that bridges tradition and science — offering benefits grounded in both history and emerging anatomical insight.
Why dry needling may feel painful
Dry needling uses fine, sterile, single-use needles inserted directly into tight muscle bands or myofascial trigger points. Because these areas are sensitive or already tense, the insertion can cause a reflex muscle twitch — an involuntary contraction — which many people perceive as a brief, sharp sensation.
Trigger points themselves are often tender or painful even without treatment; inserting a needle into a knot can temporarily intensify that discomfort as the muscle fibres release and tension is reset.
Everyone’s experience is different. Pain perception depends on factors like your individual sensitivity, how tight or inflamed the muscle is, and which area is being treated. Some people feel only a light prick, others notice a brief ache.
After treatment, some mild soreness, slight bruising or a feeling of fatigue may occur — these are common, short-lived responses as the muscle relaxes and circulation adjusts. More serious complications are rare when treatment is provided by a trained practitioner using correct sterilisation technique.
If you have a bleeding disorder, take blood-thinning medication, or have any complex health condition, please discuss this before booking so we can ensure dry needling is appropriate for your situation.
What conditions is acupuncture commonly used for?
The notion of acupuncture points and meridians originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine, where these points are viewed as part of an energetic network through which vital energy (Qi) flows. Within this traditional framework, acupoints function as portals for balancing and influencing health across body, mind, and spirit.
From a modern biomedical perspective, research over recent decades has identified that many acupuncture points correspond to fascia planes, connective tissue, neurovascular bundles or areas rich in nerve endings and blood vessels. These anatomical structures are distributed throughout the body — which provides a plausible anatomical substrate for many classical acupoints. Pubmed review of evidence .
This overlap does not prove that all traditional meridians (or the concept of Qi) exist exactly as classical texts describe. Many studies still find inconsistencies, and researchers continue to debate whether meridians correspond fully with measurable anatomical networks. Medical Acpuncture
Bottom line: Acupuncture points are “real” in the sense that needling or stimulating specific points on the body can produce measurable physiological responses — likely via connective tissue, nerve stimulation, or vascular changes. Whether or not these points correspond to classical meridians or “energy flows” depends on the framework (traditional vs biomedical) you use. Because evidence is still evolving, I approach acupuncture as a therapy that bridges tradition and science — offering benefits grounded in both history and emerging anatomical insight.
How acupuncture works
Acupuncture is a holistic therapy rooted in ancient Chinese medicine. It involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body — commonly known as acupuncture points or meridians — with the aim of supporting balance and wellbeing.
According to traditional theory, stimulating these points helps regulate the flow of vital energy (Qi), restoring harmony in body and mind. From a modern perspective, needling may influence nerve signalling, connective-tissue and fascial networks, local circulation, and release of natural pain-modulating chemicals — mechanisms that are increasingly being explored by scientific research. Review article
Many people find acupuncture helpful for conditions such as chronic or musculoskeletal pain, tension headaches or migraine prevention, stress relief, improved sleep quality, and general relaxation. ScienceDirect. However — as with any therapeutic approach — results vary from person to person, depending on the individual’s health history, the nature of their condition, and how consistently treatments are applied.
When administered by a trained practitioner using single-use sterile needles in a hygienic setting, acupuncture is generally considered safe with a low risk of serious side effects. Short-term effects may include mild soreness, temporary fatigue or slight bruising as the body adjusts.
My approach to acupuncture is to respect and honour both tradition and emerging scientific insight — tailoring treatments to each person’s unique needs and always prioritizing safety, clarity, and informed consent.
Can I get acupuncture during pregnancy?
Many pregnant women choose acupuncture as a gentle, complementary therapy to support their well-being during pregnancy. When performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner who understands pregnancy-specific care, acupuncture can help with common discomforts such as nausea, fatigue, back or pelvic pain, stress, and sleep disturbances.
Acupuncture during pregnancy is generally considered safe — especially when the practitioner carefully selects acupuncture points, avoids contraindicated points (such as certain abdominal or sacral points), and follows strict sterilisation and hygiene protocols. NHS guidance on acupuncture
Many women who have used acupuncture report feeling more relaxed, experiencing relief from certain discomforts, and improved overall well-being. Healthline and safety in pregnancy.
However — as with all treatments during pregnancy — it’s important to:
Let your practitioner know you are pregnant (or might be).
Discuss any complications or high-risk factors (e.g. bleeding disorders, placenta issues, previous miscarriages, certain medications, etc.).
Understand that acupuncture is not a guaranteed “cure,” but a supportive tool — results vary depending on the individual, their health history, and the stage of pregnancy.
Accept that mild side effects may occur (such as slight discomfort, temporary soreness or light bruising). Serious complications are rare when treatment is done properly.
If you decide to explore acupuncture during pregnancy — I will tailor each session with your safety, comfort and long-term well-being in mind. And, as always — you’re welcome to consult your healthcare provider before starting.
Understanding the Timeline for Pain Relief in Acupuncture
Understanding what to expect: how long before you might feel changes with acupuncture
Acupuncture has helped many people with pain — but every body is different. There’s no fixed guarantee of when, or if, results will come. Below is a realistic view based on clinical research + typical patterns some people experience.
1. Possible Short-Term Relief
Some clients experience relief during or immediately after a session. This may be due to the release of the body’s natural pain-modulators (like endorphins), changes in circulation, or relaxation of tight muscles and fascia. Pubmed Recent advances in acupuncture for pain relief
This relief may be temporary — sometimes lasting hours to days.
2. Short-Term Benefits (Days to Weeks)
For acute musculoskeletal pain (e.g. recent injury, muscle strain, certain back or neck pain), a short series of 2-4 sessions over a few weeks may bring noticeable reduction in pain and improved mobility or function. Annals of Palliative Medicine
Some people also report improved relaxation, better sleep or reduced stress — which may indirectly help pain or overall well-being.
3. Gradual Improvement (Over Multiple Sessions / Months)
For chronic pain conditions (long-standing back pain, osteoarthritis, chronic headaches) acupuncture may offer gradual and sustained improvements, sometimes reducing pain and need for medications over time. JAMA Article
Because chronic pain involves many physical + lifestyle + emotional factors, acupuncture is often most helpful when combined with other supportive measures (posture, movement, stress-management, nutrition, etc.).
4. Every Body is Unique
How quickly (or whether) acupuncture works depends on many things: the nature and severity of your condition; how often you come; your overall health, lifestyle, and how your body responds.
Some people feel lasting relief after just a few sessions; for others, improvements may be modest or take longer. In some cases, symptoms may fluctuate — improving on some days, not on others.
5. Acupuncture as Part of a Holistic Approach
Acupuncture works best as one part of a broader wellness plan — including movement, good nutrition, stress-management, and realistic expectations.
Especially with long-term or chronic conditions, regular sessions (e.g. monthly or quarterly maintenance) or a programme of care may offer the most benefit.
6. Safety & What to Expect Afterwards
When done properly (sterile single-use needles, trained practitioner), acupuncture is generally safe and risk of serious adverse effects is low. Mild effects like temporary soreness, slight fatigue or mild bruising may occur after treatment.
I will always discuss with you what to expect, review your health status, and tailor treatment and follow-up accordingly
Results vary — here’s what many people report”
The chart above summarises typical patient-reported outcomes over a course of sessions. Some people notice relief within just a few treatments, while others need more sessions, and for some the benefits accumulate gradually. What’s important to understand: acupuncture is not a “magic bullet.”
🔹 Immediate / short-term relief — many patients feel less pain or improved mobility soon after one or two sessions (likely due to release of tension, improved circulation, and nervous-system effects).
🔹 Short-term gains (weeks) — for recent injuries or muscle strain, 2–4 treatments over several weeks often seem to produce meaningful improvement.
🔹 Gradual or maintenance effects (months) — for chronic pain, ongoing sessions — combined with lifestyle, movement, stress-management — may lead to longer-lasting relief or improved function.
Because every person and condition is unique, I recommend a flexible, responsive treatment plan — and honest communication about what you feel, when, and how.
Safety & what to expect
When performed by a trained practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture is generally regarded as safe. Some people may experience mild soreness, slight bruising, or temporary fatigue immediately after treatment. Serious complications are rare — but if you have a bleeding disorder, use anticoagulants, or have major health conditions, please discuss this with me before booking.
Acupuncture is a complementary therapy; it may support wellness but is not a substitute for medical diagnoses or treatments.
About this information
This page is written by Dr Debbie Smith, a registered practitioner with the Allied Health Council of South Africa (A7317).
The information shared here reflects clinical experience, traditional practice, and current research, and is intended to support informed understanding of acupuncture and its use in clinical care.