What Are Acupuncture Needles Made Of?
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin, flexible instruments designed specifically for use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). They are primarily made from stainless steel—a material known for its strength, sterility, and resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel allows the needle to be manufactured with a fine, smooth tip, which enables gentle and precise insertion with minimal discomfort to the patient.
The handle of the needle is often made from the same stainless steel wire and may be coiled or textured for better grip and control. In some variations, especially in traditional or Korean-style acupuncture, the handle may be made of copper or coated with a layer of silver or gold. While these metals do not influence the actual effect of the treatment, some practitioners believe they subtly influence the flow of energy (qi) through the body due to their conductive properties.
How Do Acupuncture Needles Differ From Hypodermic Needles?
One of the biggest misconceptions patients have before their first session is assuming acupuncture needles are similar to the needles used for injections or blood draws. In reality, the two are quite different.
Acupuncture needles are significantly thinner than hypodermic needles—often as thin as a human hair. Whereas hypodermic needles are hollow and designed to pierce veins to inject or withdraw fluid, acupuncture needles are solid and designed to gently stimulate specific points on the body’s energy pathways, or meridians.
Because of their ultra-fine diameter (typically ranging from 0.12 mm to 0.35 mm), acupuncture needles cause minimal tissue disruption and rarely cause bleeding or bruising when inserted properly. Their purpose is therapeutic, not invasive. Most patients describe the sensation as a light pinch or even no sensation at all.
Are There Different Types of Acupuncture Needles?
Yes, there are several types of acupuncture needles, each designed for different techniques or patient needs. The most common is the filiform needle—a thin, solid, stainless steel needle used in most acupuncture clinics worldwide. These are single-use and come in sterile packaging.
Other types include intradermal needles, which are very short and meant to be inserted just beneath the surface of the skin for extended stimulation, often used in auricular (ear) acupuncture. There are also press needles, which are tiny needles mounted on a small adhesive patch; they can be left in place for days at a time.
In traditional Chinese medicine settings, some practitioners may also use plum blossom or seven-star needles—these consist of a small cluster of short needles at the end of a handle, tapped gently on the skin for therapeutic effect. While still considered acupuncture needles, these are more specialized tools used in particular situations.
Safety and Sterilization of Acupuncture Needles
Modern acupuncture needles are designed for single use and are disposed of immediately after each treatment. This greatly reduces any risk of infection or contamination. In the past, reusable needles were common and required rigorous sterilization between uses, but today’s standards emphasize hygiene and patient safety.
All acupuncture needles used in licensed clinics in the U.S. must be FDA-approved and manufactured in accordance with strict medical-grade standards. They are sterile, individually wrapped, and disposed of in designated sharps containers after use.
It’s important to ensure your acupuncturist is properly licensed and follows clean needle technique (CNT) guidelines, which are taught as part of accredited acupuncture training programs.
Summary
Acupuncture needles are made of stainless steel and differ significantly from medical needles used in hospitals. They are thin, solid, and designed to provide gentle stimulation rather than pierce veins or deliver medication. With proper use, they are safe, hygienic, and virtually painless.
Understanding the materials and purpose of acupuncture needles can help ease any anxiety about treatment and highlight the sophistication of this time-tested healing art.
About Raleigh Acupuncture
At Raleigh Acupuncture Associates, we are deeply committed to providing the highest quality professional acupuncture while being rooted in strong Judeo-Christian values of love, faith, kindness, and truth. We guide our practice with compassionate care, where each patient is treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background, faith, or beliefs. We welcome people from all walks of life and strive to create a warm, inclusive environment promoting healing and holistic wellness. Our dedication to delivering exceptional acupuncture is paired with a genuine love for helping others, making our clinic a place where faith and professional medical care come together for the well-being of every patient.
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