FAQ

FAQ

What is NeedleCalm?
The device is about the size of a business card and has three main components, including an outer later that helps maintain the cold, an inner later that contains small protrusions to help with pressure and silicone tape to help secure the device on to the skin.
How does NeedleCalm work?
The device uses a patented combination of science and psychology to ‘close the gate’ between the needle injection site and pain receptors in the brain, thereby allowing practitioners to minimise the perception of pain and administer needle procedures with accuracy, safety and consistency. This helps alleviate the physical and mental distress of needle procedures. It works by getting in between the pain and the brain, helping the brain focus on the larger sensation of the NeedleCalm device rather than the sharp sensation of the needle. Patients can also press on it themselves during the procedure to focus away from the needle.
What causes a needle phobia?
Sometimes it can just ‘happen’ on its own. Commonly our patients aren’t able to remember an exact cause however generally vaccinations performed in childhood are a substantial source of distress due to the pain. If not addressed, this pain can lead to pre-procedural anxiety in the future, fear of needles ,healthcare avoidance and an increased perception of pain for future needles.

A negative experience is also compounded by a lack of trust in healthcare providers and a use of excessive force or restraint.
Why it’s important to address needle pain and fear.
Addressing needle fear is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it impacts individuals’ access to necessary medical care. Fear of needles can prevent individuals from seeking vaccinations, blood tests, or even life-saving treatments. Secondly, needle fear can lead to anxiety and stress, making medical procedures more difficult for both patients and healthcare providers. By addressing needle fear, healthcare professionals can create a more comfortable and supportive environment, ensuring better patient experiences and outcomes. Additionally, managing needle fear can help reduce the risk of needle-related injuries caused by involuntary movements or reactions. Overall, addressing needle fear is essential for improving healthcare accessibility, patient well-being, and the overall quality of medical care.
What ages can NeedleCalm be used for?
NeedleCalm is recommended for use on children aged 4 years and above and for adults under 65 years of age. NeedleCalm has not been tested on newborns.
NeedleCalm is usually not required when adults reach later adulthood however patients <65 years with conditions such as Dementia may benefit due to increased sensitivity to pain.
What does NeedleCalm feel like on my skin?
The underside of your NeedleCalm device has little blunt protrusions. Some of our patients say that it feels like pressing firm toothbrush on your skin. The securing tape is very soft and gentle to peel off.
Will I get an allergic reaction from NeedleCalm?
NeedleCalm is latex free and contains no medications. If you have a known reaction to silicone, NeedleCalm is not recommended for use.
Can I re-use NeedleCalm?
NeedleCalm is classified as single use only. It must be immediately discarded if it comes into contact with any blood or body fluids. It is up to the discretion of the patient if NeedleCalm is to be used more than once for home use on a single patient with appropriate cleaning.
Can I use NeedleCalm for sterile procedures?
Yes. NeedleCalm is not supplied sterile but is compatible with all professional sterilisation processes.
Does NeedleCalm numb my skin?
No. NeedleCalm activates a process called the gate control theory of pain. The additional use of a numbing cream is not necessary when using NeedleCalm and could impact the adhesion of the device to the skin. The use of numbing cream for vaccination procedures is no longer recommended by The Australian Immunisation Handbook.
NeedleCalm didn’t work for me, what am I doing wrong?
NeedleCalm should be refrigerated at 2-8degC for 4 hours prior to use. Try putting NeedleCalm in between two ice packs immediately before use to make it colder. Apply NeedleCalm to the skin and inject quicker and closer to the device (2-5cm). Make sure you are applying enough firm pressure on the device just before the needle goes in.
What ages can NeedleCalm be used for?
NeedleCalm is recommended for use on children aged 4 years and above and for adults under 65 years of age. NeedleCalm has not been tested on newborns.
NeedleCalm is usually not required when adults reach later adulthood however patients <65 years with conditions such as Dementia may benefit due to increased sensitivity to pain.
Will I get an allergic reaction from NeedleCalm?
NeedleCalm is latex free and contains no medications. If you have a known reaction to silicone, NeedleCalm is not recommended for use.
Is NeedleCalm sterile?
No. But NeedleCalm can be sterilised using the appropriate methods in a health care facility.
Can I use a numbing cream with NeedleCalm?
Please check with your healthcare provider before your procedure. In our experience, we have found that the addition of a numbing cream is not necessary when using NeedleCalm and could impact the adhesion of the device to the skin.
NeedleCalm didn’t work for me, what am I doing wrong?
NeedleCalm should be refrigerated at 2-8degC for 4 hours prior to use. Try putting NeedleCalm in between two ice packs immediately before use to make it colder. Apply NeedleCalm to the skin and inject quicker and closer to the device (2-5cm).
Does my clinic stock NeedleCalm?
A number of clinics around Australia are now stocking NeedleCalm for their patients. We’d recommend that contact your clinic directly prior to booking your appointment. NeedleCalm can also be purchased by the general public via distributors or in-store locations.
I need help urgently!
Navigating your way though needle fear and phobia can be tricky. We are here to support you. Please give us a call or send an email to enquiries@needlecalm.com.au