When you arrive for your first acupuncture session, the completed intake form will be reviewed, followed by a brief discussion of the reason for your visit. The detailed intake form asks questions about your current state of health; dietary, lifestyle and exercise habits; past illnesses, and family history. These questions are important because the holistic approach of Oriental medicine views all of these factors as integral to your state of health and well being.
We will discuss your expectations and what conditions you would like to address using acupuncture therapy. Following a brief examination of the pulse and tongue, acupuncture needles will be placed depending upon the condition being treated and the information derived from the examination. If you are seeking treatment for a pain related condition, cupping therapy may be indicated. Cupping therapy will be performed, with your consent, prior to or after placement of the acupuncture needles. Once the needles are inserted, you will recline comfortably on a massage table for 15-20 minutes with the needles in place. Many people find acupuncture treatment deeply relaxing, it is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep during this time.
Wear comfortable, loose- fitting clothes and make sure you have eaten at least an hour before your appointment. Please bring your completed intake forms and insurance card, if we are billing your insurance.
The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative and most likely more then one treatment is necessary. For acute conditions you can expect to have 5 to 10 treatments, but you will usually begin to feel relief after 1 to 4 sessions. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond, depending on the type, severity, and duration of the condition. Preventative treatments and treatments for general well-being may also be scheduled on a monthly, quarterly, or as needed basis.
Acupuncture works by activating the body's own healing abilities through biochemical releases. It can be beneficial for many health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented many symptoms, diseases, and conditions that have been shown in controlled clinical trials to be effectively treated with acupuncture. Please feel free to contact me about your specific health condition.