These sites, or acupoints, are way stations for the body's vital force. They have high electrical conductance and are often associated with increased blood circulation. Skin around an acupuncture point may become slightly reddened, warm, and raised, but not nearly as much as from a mosquito bite. Many people feel a sense of tingling, expanding fullness, and spreading warmth around the needle site. There is rarely any sensation of pain or important discomfort.
Most people feel relaxed, even sedated, over the course of an individual treatment.
After treatments and a brief rest period, others are energized, even euphoric. The last three side effects often are avoided if the patient lies quietly for twenty to thirty minutes after a treatment is completed.