The DeQi sensation in acupuncture is the connection of the patient's Qi with the needle that the therapist has introduced. The patient has a kind of reaction that is described as itching, smarting, tension, pressure at the point, current or mild cramp, tingling. It depends on the sensitivity of the person. Each one feels it differently.

• These sensations last a while and should not be bothersome. If a bothersome sensation is maintained for more than one or two minutes you need to change it, the needle is badly placed.
• The Qi is gentle. A strong cramp normally indicates that you have punctured the nerve.

Needle manipulation techniques after insertion to achieve the DeQi sensation

• Correct the direction and depth
• Very weak people sometimes need to let the needle rest. In one or two minutes the needle attracts the energy.
• Warm the meridian with the moxa stick, with the needles in place, if we don't feel anything
• Lift and lower the needle slightly without taking it out completely
• Rotate or lift and rotate: in both directions so as not to wrap the muscle fibers (in fleshy areas, like the legs)
• Massage the meridian in the direction of the meridian
• Vibration of the needle with the nail against the handle (it is more uncomfortable)