How Big Are Acupuncture Needles? (Hint: Much Smaller Than You Think)

Needle Comparison Chart

When I talk to people about Acupuncture, one of the biggest concerns is with the needles: How big are they? 

Acupuncture needle sizes are tiny.  They are thin & flexible; if you flick them with your fingers, they will wobble back & forth.  Compared to a hypodermic needle, which is a needle used to give an injection, you can fit about 10 acupuncture needles in the tip of one hypodermic needle. 

So if you’re worried about how big they are and think you will feel something akin to getting a shot, you will be happily surprised to find that an acupuncture needle insertion is absolutely nothing like getting a flu shot.  It is almost always painless (there are some exceptions).  Also note that once it’s in, it’s in.  As long as you don’t move, you won’t feel a thing.  There is also no injectable, so no secondary pain. 

Hopefully this gives you some peace of mind about needle insertion during acupuncture. 

Still nervous about trying acupuncture?

At Union Yoga & Physical Therapy in Annandale, VA, we specialize in gentle, patient-centered care — and we’ll walk you through every step so you feel completely at ease. Schedule your appointment and discover how simple (and painless) healing can be.