Falling Out

Dear Patient,

Sometimes during an acupuncture treatment, a needle or two will fall out while you’re resting.

This can happen if you move around a lot—movement will relax the muscle fibers around the needle, and if they get too slack, they won’t be able to hold it in place. So it’s best not to move too much. Just be still. Allow the needles to stay.

But sometimes you’re lying there still as a statue, and a needle will fall out anyway. Even though you haven’t moved, the muscle fibers relinquish their hold. When this happens, it’s usually because the needle has done its job. Your body doesn’t need it anymore, so it lets go.

I take this as a good sign—your body surrenders control and trusts the process. It doesn’t grip too tightly or hang on after a needle has served its purpose. The body releases it, secure in knowing that in this moment, it has everything it needs.

The next time you’re resting in stillness and a needle falls out, send a thought of thanks to your body for holding on, and for letting go.

Love and gratitude,

Your Acupuncturist