Acupuncture does not hurt. After insertion you may feel some sensations; however, these are very different to pain. The sensations are hard to describe as they are variable depending on the point used and the individual receiving treatment. You may occasionally feel a small electric-like sensation that lasts less than a second. This is associated with a nervous system response we are trying to tap into to achieve results.  Ultimately, acupuncture is deeply relaxing, inducing a meditative or even sleeping state.