Does acupuncture hurt?

While acupuncture does not typically create pain, it does create a sensation at the point of needle insertion, according to AcuTake. While this pain compares to the bite of a mosquito, it should not feel sharp or be accompanied by other surrounding pain.

Other feelings commonly linked to the insertion of needles during acupuncture include heavy, achy, electric, tingly and warm, according to AcuTake. In some cases, there may be a sharper pain when the needle is inserted. However, it is important that the acupuncturist is informed of this pain, as the needle should be reinserted or removed so that pain does not occur during treatment.