During the acupuncture treatment, needles are inserted into the skin at targeted areas and depths depending on each patient’s individual symptoms. Only sterile, single-use needles are used during acupuncture in order to ensure patient safety. The needles are usually kept in place for 5 to 20 minutes, and may receive electrical or heat impulses during this time. Patients often undergo a series of weekly or biweekly treatments, usually with 12 total treatment sessions.