Acupuncture... do or don't?

I'm thinking about visiting an acupuncturist for some annoying localized neck pain related to an old shoulder injury. Has anybody any good or bad acupuncture experiences? I have a thing about needles so I want to get some of the anxiety out of the way before I go.

All thoughts appreciated!

Oh give it a try! It's brilliant. The needles are tiny, they don't really feel like anything going in- though you turn them to really get the energy flowing.  The points aren't always necessarily near your neck, may be in your feet, wrists, etc.   I always feel amazing after an acupuncture session -with a lot more movement.   

I do acupuncture regularly and I love love love it. I always feel better afterwards and the feeling while the needles are in is surreal. There is almost no pain at all, and even if you feel anything, it's more like a twinge or that feeling you get when you hit your funny bone. Try it! The worst thing that could happen is you don't like it but it may help.

I've had it for back problems and I'm afraid it didn't help. However, it didn't do any harm and it didn't cause me any pain whatsoever, so I think it's well worth a try. A lot of people respond really well to it. You have nothing to lose, so go for it!

I had it once about 10 years ago for pain in my wrist, and it worked for me.  Like the others say, the needles aren't painful, it just felt like a small pinprick that lasted for less than a second.  Like chary says, you might as well give it a try.

I figured it couldn't hurt to give it a try. I've done physio (2x), continue to do all the exercises etc and all the doctors do is recommend more physio and prescribe strong over the counter pain relievers. Yeah, that was worth the co-pay 

they don't really feel like anything going in

That's what I was worried about - the going in part. I get all stressed in anticipation of needles, which is the opposite of feeling relaxed. I always presumed it'd be a pretty relaxing experience.

I do acupuncture regularly and I love love love it.

How often do you go? Or do they "prescribe" a series of visits?

Now I have to find out how much, if any, my insurance covers.

That's what I was worried about - the going in part. I get all stressed in anticipation of needles, which is the opposite of feeling relaxed.

Don't worry about that bit at all! I have a severe needle phobia, but acupuncture has always been completely painless for me.

i have used accupuncture for many years now......it does wonders for me.....BUT.....its like anything else.....if youre not comfortable and accepting of it ......then its not going to work for you.......the only way to know is to try it......if its not for you then they can possibly reccomend another source of treatment.......i have not personally tried cupping therapy but i have tons of friends back home that love it.......just another option for you.......best of luck

I've been very curious of this as well! I usually go to the Chiropractor and get a massage that seems to do fine by me, but I'm always open to new options if it helps with pain, detox, etc. etc. etc. I used to be a massage therapist, so I like all these different options! I may give it a try! 

just got back from accupuncture ........tonight is reiki/reflexology

Don't worry about that bit at all! I have a severe needle phobia, but acupuncture has always been completely painless for me.

I feel muuuuch better. I'm gonna give it a go! I figure it can't be any more expensive than getting regular massage therapy.