Acupuncture may seem like an intimidating treatment—especially for those with an aversion to needles. However, such apprehension shouldn’t prevent you from experiencing the many benefits that this treatment has to offer. Many believe acupuncture can treat a wide variety of conditions. Specifically, it may relieve discomfort associated with neck and back pain, headaches, respiratory disorders, dental pain, and chemotherapy. If you’re experiencing pre-appointment jitters, consider this guide on what to know before your first acupuncture appointment to help you prepare and keep calm. Acupuncture is relatively painless One of the biggest fears that people have when undergoing acupuncture therapy for the first time is that it will hurt. However, the insertion of acupuncture needles is relatively painless. In fact, many people who undergo acupuncture therapy don’t even feel the needle at all. Those that do, generally feel a very slight prick with a comparable pain level to getting an eyebrow hair plucked. Don’t arrive on an empty stomach If you undergo acupuncture treatment on an empty stomach, it may cause you to feel lightheaded, depleted, or dizzy. To prevent such uncomfortable sensations and fully maximize the treatment’s potential, you should eat a meal a couple of hours before your appointment. You could also consume a small snack right before you arrive.