What does Acupuncture feel like?
Patients new to acupuncture are often surprised that they feel almost no sensation at all.
Extremely thin acupuncture needles are gently inserted at specific points in the body making for relatively pain free insertion. Once the needles are in place you may feel no sensation at all or you may experience a slight tingling, a mild ache, a traveling sensation or sense of heaviness at the place of insertion. These sensations are normal and let you know that the treatment is taking effect. I am certified in Clean Needle Technique and use needles that are sterile, single use, and individually packaged. Sterile needle technique is used at all times. Other techniques may be included in the treatment such as cupping and moxibustion. All techniques will be explained to you before the treatment.
 How Many Treatments are Necessary?
Due to the fact that each patient’s health conditions, constitution and response to treatment are unique, the number and frequency of treatments vary. Acute conditions may only require a few visits while chronic or long-standing conditions may resolve with a series of treatments. Since the effect of acupuncture treatments tend to be cumulative, as with other medical modalities, acupuncture requires a series of treatments to be most effective. It is also wise to have regular maintenance treatments once the body is healthy to keep it in harmony, prevent disease and maintain treatment results.
How will I feel after receiving acupuncture?
Everybody experiences the effects of acupuncture differently. Some individuals become deeply relaxed after a treatment while others may feel energized or euphoric. Based on the condition being treated, some people may notice the benefits of the treatment almost immediately, while for some the treatment effects are more evident several hours to days later. Others may need additional treatments before they start to feel a difference in their symptoms.
How should I prepare for my Acupuncture treatment?
Patients should try to eat a light meal or snack within 1-2 hours before coming for an acupuncture treatment. Loose comfortable clothing should be worn if possible. You should be prepared to refrain from rigorous activities for at least two hours before and after treatment.
What should I expect on my first visit?
During the first visit you will complete a detailed medical history. Once this is complete I will review your history and talk with you about your current condition. I may also ask questions that may seem irrelevant to your condition such as your sleep habits, appetite, ability to tolerate heat or cold, etc. Upon completion of the intake you may have a physical examination, which may include palpating muscles, pulses, abdomen and/or meridians, and observing the qualities of the tongue. All of this information from the intake and physical exam will allow me to develop a treatment plan. A treatment will include needles inserted into specific points on the body. Other techniques may be included in the treatment such as cupping and moxibustion. All techniques will be explained to you before the treatment. Needles are retained between 20 and 40 minutes depending on the issue, age and condition of the patient. Your first visit is typically longer than follow-up treatments, usually lasting about 60 to 90 minutes. However, you can save time by downloading the intake form and completing it prior to your arrival. Follow up visits will usually last about 45 minutes to an hour. |
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