Acupuncture treatment: What to expect?

17 Sept 2021

by Physician Na Yi Ting

Are you planning to get an acupuncture treatment for the first time and do not know what to expect? 

Here are some pointers to look out for before getting an acupuncture treatment and what to expect during and after an acupuncture session. Expand the section to read more.

Before getting an acupuncture treatment: 

1) Consult your TCM physician  

Do consult with your TCM physician if you are suitable for acupuncture treatment. 

Talking to your TCM physicians to address some concerns such as fear of needles and pain or concerns over an acupuncture treatment can help alleviate your worries regarding your acupuncture session. 

• Let your physicians know your pre-existing conditions and the medications you are taking. 

• Your TCM physician will then discuss with you whether you are suited for acupuncture treatment and explore alternative treatments if acupuncture is not suitable for you. 

2) Eat before your acupuncture appointment 

Eat a moderate amount before you go for your acupuncture appointment. 

However, it is important to note that do not go for a heavy meal to prevent any discomfort. Likewise, do not go on an empty stomach before your acupuncture appointment. 

• Patients can risk feeling light-headed and dizziness during an acupuncture treatment in the event they go for the treatment on an empty stomach.

3) Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing 

It is advisable to wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing for your acupuncture appointment. 

• Avoid tight-fitting clothing as this may make the acupuncture process uncomfortable for you and makes it harder for the physician to place needles on the acupoints hindered by the clothing. 

What to expect during an acupuncture treatment? 

1) Consultation for symptoms assessment 

Your physician will consult with you and query the symptoms you are experiencing to evaluate your condition. 

• Answering these questions as completely and honestly as you can help to increase the accuracy of the diagnosis and allows the physician to come up with a treatment plan most suited for your condition. 

2) Varied sensations during acupuncture treatment 

There may be a minimal sensation of pricking pain as the physician administer the needle during the treatment. 

As your physician stimulates the acu-point, a “De Qi” sensation will be felt when the acupoint is stimulated which help to improve Qi circulation. 

• A “De Qi” sensation may involve some soreness, numbness, and heaviness at the site where acupuncture is administered. 

• Do let your physician know if the “De Qi” sensation is overbearing for you so that he or she can adjust the level of stimulation for you. 

In the case where you feel unwell or dizzy, do inform your physician at once. 

3) Limit your movement during an acupuncture treatment 

Do try to stay still and limit your movement during the acupuncture treatment to prevent any needles which are administered from getting bent (it can get uncomfortable). 

4) Possible re-stimulation of the needles before removal of the needles at the end of the treatment 

Your physician may re-stimulate the needles before removing them at the end of the treatment. 

• This helps to further improve the Qi circulation which helps in the healing process for your condition.  

After the acupuncture treatment: 

1) Occasional bleeding or bruising at needle administered site 

There may be a chance of minor bleeding or slight bruising after the needles are removed. 

Do let your physician know so he or she can help you to stop the bleeding. This bleeding usually dissipates after a matter of seconds. 

• Bruises often subside after a week. 

• Massaging the area of bruise after the day of acupuncture can help speed up the recovery of the bruises. 

2) You may experience fatigue after acupuncture treatment 

You may experience mild fatigue after your acupuncture treatment; therefore, you should allow yourself to have sufficient rest after the acupuncture treatment. 

• Avoid strenuous exercises directly after your acupuncture treatment and give yourself some rest before you dive straight to your work.