By Sarah Newman, Acupuncture Physician, MAOM, AIT/Acupuncture Injection Therapy cert. — Vitality Acupuncture LLC, Pensacola, FL
Your thin, tiny, petite acupuncture needles at Vitality Acupuncture LLC are all sterile, disposable, single use needles. They're thinner than a piece of hair and solid, not hollow, so they don't puncture like hospital needles. If you breathe, they go in like butter and if anything feels uncomfortable after 3 seconds, let me know, because your acupuncturist would really rather have you comfortable ;) Any needle can be adjusted or removed, since there are plenty of acupoint options to treat you just as effectively.
Quick answer: Acupuncture is very safe when performed by an NCBAHM (NCCAOM) board-certified, state-licensed acupuncturist, also having been trained in Clean Needle Technique. A few points are off-limits during pregnancy, and side effects are typically mild — slight bruising, a brief nerve "zing," or an uncommon vagal response. Acupuncture isn't a one-time quick fix, though: it tends to work best as a course of treatment, and it's worth investing in a properly trained practitioner rather than the cheapest option available.
Tell your acupuncturist if you're pregnant or trying to conceive — a few points are contraindicated during pregnancy. LI4 (Large Intestine 4) is one, because of its strong moving effect. Later in pregnancy, though, when timing and safety are appropriate, that same point can be one your acupuncturist considers to help support labor.
Look for NCBAHM, (formerly NCCAOM) board certification: a full 4-year accredited graduate degree program, 3,600 clinical hours, and a passed national boards exam. Combined with state licensure, this is what qualifies an acupuncturist to treat you properly and safely — even if you're pregnant, on blood thinners, have breast or gastric implants, or have metal or a pacemaker in your body. A properly trained acupuncturist knows where, when, and how to treat you with that safety in mind.
That training also includes certification in Clean Needle Technique (CNT). Some practitioners, myself included, also complete AIT (Acupuncture Injection Therapy) certification — an additional 60 hours of training with 20 clinical hours.
The body has over 2,000 acupuncture points, each with specific actions, prescribed insertion depths and angles, and — for some — outright contraindications. There are points in places like the belly button and soles of the feet that an experienced acupuncturist often doesn't even need to use, because other, more comfortable options exist to treat the same issue just as well.
Points on the torso, chest, and back that sit over the lungs each have their own prescribed depth and angle for safe insertion — precision that comes from proper training.
Most side effects of acupuncture are mild:
This distinction matters. Treating the vagus nerve is intentional — it's a specific acupuncture point that may help support conditions like POTS, syncope, dysautonomia, and gastroparesis.
A vagal response is an uncommon side effect that can happen during any treatment — typically when a patient hasn't eaten beforehand (as noted in your Welcome Text) or has had too much coffee or an energy drink. It usually starts as cold, clammy palms while lying on the table. Because acupuncture brings the body toward relaxation, that shift in gears can occasionally feel sudden or surprising. The cold, sweaty palms are simply the cue to remove the needles, prop up the feet, and offer water and a light snack — it resolves quickly.
More often, the effects of acupuncture are the reason people keep coming back. Many patients notice improved sleep quality, support for pain and inflammation, and more efficient metabolism and hormone function — even when those weren't the original reason for treatment. Because acupuncture approaches you as a whole person, a kind of positive domino effect often follows.
Acupuncture may not be the right fit if:
This article is meant to address the "pink elephant" of acupuncture — the questions people have but don't always ask — so you can make a clearer, more informed decision about your healthcare, whichever path you choose.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, when performed by a board-certified, state-licensed acupuncturist or acupuncture physician. A properly trained practitioner can treat patients safely even with conditions like pregnancy, blood thinners, implants, or a pacemaker.
What side effects can I expect from acupuncture?
Most are mild: slight bruising, a lighter or calmer feeling, or a brief nerve "zing." An uncommon vagal response — cold, clammy palms — can occur, especially if you haven't eaten beforehand, and typically resolves quickly with rest, water, and a snack.
How many acupuncture treatments will I need to see results?
Usually more than one. Acupuncture tends to work cumulatively, similar to physical therapy — consistent treatment over time is what tends to produce lasting change and enable your body to heal.
Why does acupuncture cost more than the cheapest option I can find?
Pricing often reflects training and safety: board certification, state licensure, and specialized certifications like CNT and AIT all factor into the level of care you receive.
Disclaimer: Individual results vary. Acupuncture supports your overall wellness in conjunction with your additional healthcare providers. This content is for general education and is not a medical guarantee.
Thank you for reading! Text (904) 687-4093 for your Welcome Text or to request an appointment.
Sarah Newman, Acupuncture Physician, MAOM, AIT/Acupuncture Injection Therapy cert.
Vitality Acupuncture LLC | 2810 E Cervantes St, Pensacola, FL 32503 | VitalityAcupuncture.net