Seshat,

I understand your reluctance to try acu. due to being afraid of needles. A lot of the patients who come in are and are extremely nervous. RoamingMind is correct. The needles are very fine. I often tell patients they're about the thickness of a cat's whisker. Also, they really don't hurt at all. Most of the time you won't even feel when they're inserted, and if you do, what you'll feel will be similar to a mosquito bite. It might burn for a moment, but then the sensation quickly subsides.

Also, an important part of a treatment is that you are to be relaxed. I can't speak to how other Dr.'s or offices work, but at ours, the Dr.'s give the patients a bell after all needles are inserted and you're comfortable on the table. If at any time a needle is bothering you, or you're uncomfortable, the Dr.'s want patients to ring the bell. Then they come in and either remove the needle bothering you altogether or reposition it, or you, so you are able to relax and enjoy the treatment. Believe it or not, many patients fall asleep during their treatments and look forward to it because it's so relaxing and refreshing.

Also, one more thing. It's possible... possible... you might bruise from one or more needles after a treatment. This doesn't always happen though. Each of us are susceptible to bruising differently and sometimes medications (blood thinners, baby aspirin, etc...) can cause one to bruise easily. You might bruise after one treatment, and not another, or you may never bruise at all. If this does happen it's no cause for concern. It's just the blood rising to the surface and the bruise will fade within a day or two. I tell patients this because when they do bruise they sometimes call and cancel their next appt. fearing something went wrong. Unfortunately, this can be common with acupuncture, but is nothing to worry about.

Just thought I'd share. Hope this helps. Only you will know what is right for you. Best of luck to you in whatever you decide.