This was a single-blind, randomised, crossover pilot study. Patients were drawn from the orthopaedic hip and knee joint replacement waiting list. Intervention consisted of either 2 weeks of treatment with real acupuncture followed by 2 weeks of placebo, or vice versa. The prime outcome was a needle sensation questionnaire and there was a range of secondary outcomes. Thirty-seven patients were randomised and completed treatment. Groups were well balanced at baseline. No significant differences between groups or needle types were found for any of the sensations measured. Most patients were unable to discriminate between the needles by penetration; however, nearly 40% were able to detect a difference in treatment type between needles. No major differences in outcome between real and placebo needling could be found.