Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

acupuncture needle size comparison

Longevity Complementary Care uses sterile, brand new, disposable needles to ensure no risk of disease transmission. The needles are very thin, slightly thicker than a human hair, and solid. The point of the needle is smooth and not hollow like a hypodermic needle. The needles are made from stainless steel.


Most patients have stated that there is little or no pain. The insertion of acupuncture needles can cause some mild discomfort, but it is not a painful process, and patients find that the benefits far outweigh the sensation.


In fact, most people find acupuncture treatments enjoyable and relaxing.

  • So What Is Acupuncture?

    facial acupuncture needling

    Acupuncture is a treatment modality in which a highly trained practitioner inserts very fine needles into the body at various points. These points are carefully selected based on the individual patient and Oriental medicine theory. The goal of acupuncture is to help re-balance and rebuild the body's normal physiological systems so that disease can be eradicated and healing can be attained.

  • How Many Treatments Will I Need?

    old woman with back pain

    Usually, a series of treatments are necessary to resolve a condition. This depends on several things: how long you have had the problem, the severity of the condition, and what level of pain you are experiencing. Some conditions, such as a cold, could be resolved in one treatment. Chronic long term health problems may require a series of treatments.

  • Can Children Be Treated With Acupuncture?

    a young woman smiling and holding a baby girl
    a young woman laying on a light pink pillow

    Children of all ages are treated and respond to acupuncture and Chinese herbal treatment. Young children of those apprehensive of using acupuncture needles may be treated without needles using bodywork massage or electrical probes. In addition, herbal formulas are usually prescribed to enhance acupuncture treatments.

  • How Safe Is Acupuncture?

    acupuncture on back

    Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects except feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection as the needles are sterile and used one time and then discarded. The needles are generally inserted no more than a half-inch to an inch, depending on the type of treatment delivered. While each person experiences acupuncture differently, most people feel only a minimal amount of pain as the needles are inserted - like a tap on the skin.

  • What Sensations Will I Experience During and After Treatment?

    hands massaging somebody's back skin

    Usually, there is a pleasant state of calm, which develops during the treatment and may persist for some time. You may even fall nearly asleep during the session. In areas that have been treated, a sensation of heaviness or swelling may continue for up to an hour or so after treatment. You may find the condition's pain or discomfort may be reduced by 20 or 30% or even eliminated. For some disorders, no effect is noticed immediately, and the condition takes a few days or a series of treatments to respond. You may notice a spot of blood at one or more of the needle sites, or a small bruise could develop. These are not harmful. In general, you should start to feel better.

  • Why Do You Need to Look At My Tongue and Feel My Pulse?

    The tongue is a map of your body, reflecting your organ and meridian systems' general health. We look at the color, shape, and coating of your tongue. For your pulse, there are 12 main positions on your wrists that also corresponds to an organ and meridian systems to check the balance of your general state of health. If there are any imbalances, they will appear in your pulse.

smiling male patient
people laying down on a grass hill

Questions Are Good

Don't be afraid to ask a question on a matter, forming the basis of a problem requiring resolution and information, especially when you're uncertain about something.

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