During your first appointment your acupuncturist will spend time getting to know you and your health concerns. You may be asked a wide range of questions about your symptoms, eating, exercise, sleep habits, emotional states and anything that may offer insight into your health.  Initial visits generally last 60 minutes and we will provide you with your unique treatment plan as well as your first acupuncture treatment.  Your practitioner will also employ diagnostic tools that are unique to acupuncture and TCM such as tongue and pulse diagnosis. Treatments can include acupuncture (TCM), motor/trigger point acupuncture (ahshi), cupping massage, guasha therapy or ear acupuncture.

Question: What does a treatment feel like? Does it hurt?

When the needle is inserted into the skin, you may feel a slight sensation of pain similar to a mosquito bite. There may also be a feeling of numbness, heaviness, warmth, or slight pain in the affected area.  People often associate needles with pain, but acupuncture needles are NOT anything used in the hospital.  Our acupuncture needles are many times smaller and are sharpened to a point making it virtually painless.  With insertion of an acupuncture needle most people only feel a minor sensation but often they feel nothing at all.  Once the needles are in place some may have a sensation of heaviness or pressure which will fade away within a few minutes.

Question: When can I expect results? How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments will vary with each individual and the condition being treated. Treatments usually last between 30-75 minutes. Relief may be immediate or within a few hours or a few days of treatment. Most patients notice an improvement after the first couple of treatments. If no improvement is experienced within 4-8 treatments, the overall changes expected may be minimal.

During your first visit your practitioner will ask many questions about your health history, lifestyle, previous illnesses and the medications and supplements you are taking.  After acquiring the details about you main compliant (what brought you here) your acupuncture treatment will begin.  Once the needles are in place, you will be allowed to rest with them for 20-30 minutes.  Most people find the treatments relaxing and often fall asleep.  

The initial consultation and acupuncture treatment can take as long as 60 minutes.  Follow up treatments can take between 45-60 minutes. Be sure to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your practitioner.

The number of acupuncture treatments required varies, depending on the nature, severity and history of the illness.  The longer the body is out of balance the longer it takes to rebalance it.  Acupuncture is subtle and powerful, allowing the body to heal from the inside out.  In general acupuncture treatments are done on a weekly basis for a total of 6-12 sessions.  For patients who are in extreme discomfort, 1 - 2 treatments weekly maybe recommended.

What do I need to do prior to my first appointment?

We will need you to complete your health history form online prior to your first appointment, this will be emailed to you.  * Please check your Junk Mail folder for clinic emails.

How treatment works:

To treat any imbalances, fine sterile needles will be inserted at specific acupuncture points along the meridian pathways. Your acupuncturist will concentrate on acupuncture points related to specific organs and muscle groups, based on your unique issues and symptoms. Your acupuncturist may include other related therapies in your treatment plan, such as cupping massage, gua sha or ear acupuncture. Herbal remedies are another important aspect of acupuncture and TCM, and it is important to understand and follow your practitioner’s directions in order to get the most benefit from these treatments.

Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?

No, you do not need to believe in acupuncture to benefit from the treatment. Acupuncture is effective on infants and animals. In China it is often given to comatose patients. It is natural to feel skeptical at first, but this will not affect the outcome of the treatments.  

For the best treatment results, keep a few things in mind:

Please show up on time
Don’t eat a large meal before your visit
Wear loose, comfortable clothes
Be sure to discuss any questions or concerns with your acupuncturist
Refrain from overexertion, recreational drugs or alcohol for at least six hours after treatment
Follow your treatment plan between visits
Keep all of your appointments, as each visit builds upon the previous ones, 24 - 48 hours notice is required to change or cancel all appointments.  

Your role in the healing process:

Your actions are a key component of your treatment plan. Focusing on your health and committing to a healthy lifestyle are the best steps you can take for your well-being. Together, you and your acupuncturist can heal your body's imbalances and help you achieve your goals.  Even after your symptoms are resolved, acupuncture can assist you in maintaining your health, and possibly prevent future imbalances. The more you incorporate acupuncture and TCM into your life, the more you’ll learn to nurture your body, mind and spirit.

Acupuncture is not an instant fix.

True healing takes time and dedication. Depending on your current health and symptoms, you could feel better right away, or you may need treatments for weeks or months to achieve the results you want. Your acupuncturist can give you an idea of what to expect. With a little patience and an open mind, you’ll be on your way to health and vitality.  Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine offer a safe and effective holistic health care system. This natural approach can both resolve symptoms and improve your overall health and well being.

Cancellation Policy: If you are unable to attend your appointment and you do not cancel within 24 hours, the right is reserved to charge you the full amount of your missed appointment plus $2.75 credit card processing fee. Missed appointment fees are not eligible for insurance reimbursement.