Surprisingly, no!

Most patients are amazed by how painless acupuncture actually is. The needles used are ultra-fine—about the width of a human hair—and designed to glide into the skin with minimal sensation. Some people may feel a slight pinch at insertion, but more commonly, you’ll experience a dull ache, warmth, tingling, or a sensation of energy moving. These are all normal signs that your body’s healing response has been activated.

Absolutely!

Acupuncture is one of the safest forms of healthcare when performed by a licensed practitioner. In California and Colorado, acupuncturists are required to use sterile, single-use, stainless steel needles, which eliminates the risk of infection or disease transmission. Becoming licensed means completing over 3,000 hours of rigorous instruction and 1,000 clinical hours, followed by passing a comprehensive state and national board exam. Ongoing education ensures your practitioner stays current with research, safety, and best practices.

Yes—And the Science Backs It.

The National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization both recognize acupuncture as a safe and effective treatment for many conditions. A quick research on PubMed will return thousands of studies on acupuncture. Millions of people worldwide turn to acupuncture to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, balance hormones, regulate the nervous system, and support overall wellness.

The process begins the moment a needle is inserted. This gentle stimulus activates the nervous system, prompting the brain to release powerful natural chemicals like endorphins, adenosine, and anti-inflammatory messengers like IL-10. These compounds reduce pain, calm inflammation, and help bring the body back into balance. As modern research continues, we’re learning more each year about the intricate science behind this ancient practice.