Acupuncture can be performed as a treatment on its own, as well as in conjuncture with a complete TCM course of treatment. Since its introduction to the West in the 1970s, acupuncture is gaining new interest as a means of chronic pain management without the use of pharmaceutical drugs.
Acupuncture needles are quite safe with each needle wrapped in a sterile package prior to use. Needles are made of stainless steel with a copper grip. Each needle is promptly and properly disposed of after one single use.
Surprisingly to some, there is very little association with either blood or pain when using the needles. The majority of acupuncture patients do not bleed at all. Most describe the sensation as a slight sting or prick that only lasts a second as the physician places the needle for treatment. Most patients describe the treatment as relaxing or report no sensation at all when needles are removed or while the needles remain in place for approximately 20 minutes during a treatment.