Study Purpose: This study aims to understand how acupuncture, a technique where tiny needles are placed on the skin, can help manage pain for people with sickle cell disease (SCD). Instead of strong pain medicines like opioids, acupuncture might be a safer option.

What to Expect: Participants will visit the study site 14 times over 6-8 weeks and have follow-up visits for 12 months. The study is randomized, meaning participants will be placed into one of two groups by chance. One group will receive traditional acupuncture with needles, while the other will have laser acupuncture without needles. Each session is 30 minutes. Researchers will ask health-related questions and conduct tests, including brain scans and blood tests, to see how acupuncture affects pain.

• **Duration:** Approximately 6-8 weeks with follow-ups for 12 months.
• **Procedure:** Participants undergo acupuncture, answer questions, and have medical tests.
• **Eligibility:** Open to individuals aged 14-80 with SCD, but not suitable for those with recent acupuncture or certain health conditions.