How Do I Choose Acupunture Needles?

Before we delve into how to choose acupuncture needles, it's essential to understand what they are and their role in acupuncture therapy. Acupuncture needles are typically made from stainless steel and come in various lengths and diameters. They are designed to penetrate the skin with minimal discomfort, stimulating specific points on the body known as acupoints.

The choice of needle can significantly impact your patients' comfort and treatment effectiveness, making it crucial to select carefully.

What to Consider When Choosing Acupuncture Needles:

Needle Material
Most modern acupuncture needles are made from stainless steel because it is durable, rust-resistant, and less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to other materials like silver or gold. Some practitioners may choose silver or gold needles for their purported additional therapeutic benefits. All of our needles are made with surgical grade stainless steel, and we also carry a few which are coated in gold and silver.

Needle Size
The size of an acupuncture needle refers to its length and diameter (gauge). The length can range from 07mm (about a quarter inch) up to 150mm (about six inches). Shorter needles are typically used for areas with shallow muscle tissue like the hands or feet, while longer ones are used for deeper muscle tissues such as in the buttocks or back.

The diameter of an acupuncture needle can range from 0.12mm (very thin) up to 0.35mm (thicker). Thinner needles cause less discomfort upon insertion but may not be as effective for stimulating deeper acupoints.

Needle Tip
The tip of the acupuncture needle can either be sharp or blunt. Sharp needles are designed to penetrate the skin easily, causing less discomfort during insertion. On the other hand, blunt needles require more force to insert but may cause less post-insertion discomfort. 

Handle Type
Acupuncture needles come with different types of handles, including metals such as copper, alloy, silver & gold, or plastic. The handle type doesn't affect the treatment's effectiveness but can influence your comfort and control during needle insertion. Some handle types such as copper are the best choice for electro acupuncture due to their conductivity.

Choosing a Trusted Brand
When selecting acupuncture needles, it's also crucial to consider the brand reputation. Choose a brand known for its high-quality products and strict adherence to safety standards. Safety standards are regulated in the US by the FDA and in Europe (EU)  by CE. We carry brands which align with international safety standards in both the USA & EU.


Remember that while this guide provides general advice on choosing acupuncture needles, every practitioner may have unique preferences based on their training and experience. Therefore, it's always a good idea to try out different types of needles to find what works best for you and your patients.