what to expect on your 1st visit

Your first acupuncture treatment begins with an interview in a private room to find out the specifics of your health, some of which may seem unrelated to what you’re coming in for. In the holistic view of Chinese medicine, every aspect of your health - mental, physical and emotional - is taken into account. A diagnosis based on Chinese medical theory is made from these findings and from examination of your tongue and pulse.
We then move into the community space where you choose a chair and get comfortable (we usually treat our patients in recliners which we find to be much more comfortable than exam tables). Acupuncture points are chosen according to your diagnosis and symptoms. Then you just relax and let the acupuncture do its work! A typical acupuncture treatment lasts about 20 minutes to an hour and a half. Please let us know if you need to be up by a certain time so you don’t have to watch the clock. After a few treatments, you will have a sense of how long your body needs to rest. On subsequent visits, we do a quick check-in to see what has changed since your last visit. Sometimes, in addition to acupuncture, an herbal formula may be prescribed. For certain conditions, herbs and acupuncture work together to obtain the best results.
People often ask if it hurts to receive acupuncture. You may feel a slight pinch (more like a bugbite than a needle) upon insertion of the needle, and some sensation is also experienced when the “qi sensation” is obtained. This sensation may be experienced as heaviness, tingling, or throbbing. Most patients find treatments to be quite pleasant and relaxing.
Many people with fear of needles find that they are able to tolerate acupuncture. The needles are extremely fine, the procedure is very gentle, not at all like getting a shot or getting blood drawn.

Please take note of the following suggestions:

On your 1st visit, arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time to check in and fill out paperwork. Or if you prefer, download the forms below and fill out the paperwork before you come.

Wear loose, comfortable clothes that can easily be pushed above your knees and elbows.

Please be scent free. Because many patients are sensitive to fragrances, we ask that you avoid using perfume, essential oils or scented body products before your appointment.

Eat before your treatment.

If it’s possible, plan to rest after your treatment.