Our Quick New Patient Guide to Your Appointment 

We know you're excited, and maybe a bit nervous for your first visit.  Here's what to expect: 

 

Before Your First Appointment

  1. The day of your visit, avoid caffeine, alcohol and overly fatty foods before your session. 
  2. Stay well-hydrated so you are primed to receive the benefits of acupuncture. 
     

Your First Appointment

  1. Your first session is approximately 1.5 hours

  2. Your visit will include a comprehensive review of your medical history, including any diagnostic testing, blood work, symptoms, and illnesses.

  3. Prior to your first appointment please print and complete the forms HERE.

 

During Your Appointment

Evaluation

  1. Before receiving treatment, we will ask you a series of questions about your general health, emotional state and wellness goals.

  2. We will take your pulse, examine your tongue and perform some palpation to inform a comprehensive treatment plan customized to you.

Treatment

  1. During treatment, thin, flexible and disposable acupuncture needles are inserted into the skin at varying depths to stimulate pressure points to facilitate the optimal functioning of the immune, endocrine, and nervous system.

  2. Most patients do not experience pain and cite a mild “zinging” sensation during the procedure.

Removal

  1. After 30 minutes, the needles are removed.

  2. Depending on the condition, the treatment may conclude with adjunctive therapies such as cupping, trigger point therapy, or gentle massage.  

Although acupuncture has a cumulative effect, it is rare that someone doesn’t feel something positive even after one session.  Regardless of your main complaint, most patients will experience improvement in their sleep, digestion, mood, menstrual cycles and stress levels. Depending on the type of treatment, you may feel immediate relief from your symptoms, experience a calm euphoria or feel energized after therapy.

 

Follow up appointments

  1. Follow up acupuncture sessions are approximately 1 hour
  2. We provide you with a treatment plan and prognosis, as well as recommendations for achieving maximum results including dietary and lifestyle suggestions.  
  3. Chinese herbal medicine may also be recommended based on your health issues and goals.
  4. Most patients receive acupuncture one to two times per week for a series of six to 10 sessions. These parameters may differ depending on the condition and constitution of each patient.