I got a bruise from the needle. Is that normal?

Slight bruising is not unusual, and is the most common negative side effect of being treated with acupuncture needles. To be clear, you shouldn’t expect bruises after every treatment, but may find one every once in a while from a needle that was placed near a larger vein. For example, the veins in your wrist area are tiny, but the veins in your upper arms are slightly bigger. Since there is more blood flowing through that area, it is therefore more likely that a small bruise may form there.
If you notice a small bruise beginning to form when an acupuncture needle is removed, use your finger tips to apply pressure for a few moments. Later on, you can use an icepack on the area to prevent further discolouration. It may be colourful, but a slight bruise is nothing to be concerned about. Feel free, however, to mention how you felt to us the next time you come in for treatment.