Acupuncture For People Who Hate Needles

You’re not being dramatic if the thought of needles makes you a little tense. The other positive is that, in general, acupuncture needles are very fine, and most acupuncturists will work with you at your comfort level. Do you have to “push through” anxiety to make gains?

Before you begin, tell your practitioner:

Be honest and specific. Useful things to say include:

I am needle-phobic/I faint with needles

Ask them to describe what they are going to do before they start

Maybe ask them to put fewer needles into you this time

Maybe not hands/feet or face

Ask if you can stop and take them off if you start freaking out.

A professional will listen and respond to this concern by adapting the treatment. For Acupuncture Gloucester, consider www.purelandsacu.co.uk/acupuncture-gloucester/

Coping tips that genuinely help:

Eat before treatment: fainting may be a cause of low blood sugar.

Arrive early: rushing increases anxiety.

Request a lying down position: A lot of people might be more comfortable not sitting up.

For example, do a “slow start” and try one or two needles first before deciding if you want more applied.

Practice breathing: deep exhales allow your body to relax faster.

Carry an escape: music, a podcast, or even your eye mask can be the thing you need to block it all out.

What it should feel like

The sensation is a quick pinch or warmth, and light pressure/weight – not the sharp sting with which you might associate injections.

If you experience any sickness during treatment, inform your practitioner immediately. Comfort and safety come first.