Acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely fine stainless steel needles into specific points on the surface of the body. Needles are sterile and disposable and most are as thick as 1-2 strands of hair. Acupuncture needles are solid with a rounded tip which passes between cells making treatments virtually painless.

Often patients do not feel the needle during insertion. Once the needle reaches the desired depth, it may be gently rotated or otherwise manipulated in order to elicit a response such as numbness, soreness, heaviness, tightness or an electrical-like sensation that may move along the meridian. These are all desirable responses, indicating the arrival of Qi, and for most patients become a pleasant curiosity as they develop an awareness of the subtle changes within their bodies during acupuncture treatment.