Although everyone's experience is different, most feel little pain as the needles are inserted, and some feel no pain at all. Marnae Ergil, chair of the Department of Oriental Sciences at the New York College for Wholistic Health Education and Research in Syosset, NY, doesn't use the term 'painless' when describing acupuncture, however, since patients do feel a sensation when the needles are inserted, though it is a vastly different feeling than a hypodermic needle. The hypodermic needle has a larger gauge than the acupuncture needle. It also has a cutting edge since it is designed to cut skin. She adds that approximately eight to 14 needles are used and remain in for about 20 minutes.
Most patients feel relaxation for about one hour to several days after treatment.
According to the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture, the treatment schedule depends on the patient and the condition. For complex or long-standing conditions, one or two treatments a week for several months may be needed. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required. For Robie Harris, pain relief occurred after the first visit. In the morning, the pain came back again, but it wasn't as strong.