Does acupuncture hurt?

I get this question a lot. People are so used to the hypodermic needles used in Western medical settings, and the truth is acupuncture needles are so much thinner! Often my patients don't even feel them being inserted. Sometimes there is a pinch or sting upon insertion that goes away immediately. Occasionally it does hurt for longer than that, in which case I adjust or remove the needle so my patient is more comfortable. I like to tell my patients that it's ok and even desirable for the needles to feel "weird", but pain is generally not therapeutic. On rare occasions I feel a needle style that is more intense would be beneficial, such as orthopedic needling. If I feel this technique would benefit my patient, I discuss it with them in advance and obtain consent. I am quite skilled and experienced with caring for more sensitive patients or those who have needle anxiety. I use a trauma informed approach to make each patient feels safe and respected. So, the answer is not as straightforward as "no, acupuncture doesn't hurt", although it usually does not. I endeavor to make each of my treatments effective, relaxing and as painless as possible.