What can I expect on my first visit?
Your first visit includes a comprehensive health consultation. We will review your intake form together and discuss your primary complaint/s. The answers to the questions on your intake form will help me to assess your overall condition and your current state of health. I will examine your tongue and pulse (Chinese medical diagnostic tools) and then palpate both the abdomen and areas of tenderness along meridians, which may correspond to your complaints. From here, I will develop a treatment plan according to your particular pattern of disharmony, and insert the needles. It is common for a first office visit to last 60-90 minutes. Return office visits are generally 45-60 minutes.
What does acupuncture feel like?
People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. The typical sensations can be described as dull, achy, or a distending feeling around the area of needle insertion. Some people feel energized by the treatment, while others may feel relaxed. After the needles are inserted into your body, you will rest, which allows your body, mind and spirit time to incorporate the treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments needed varies from patient to patient, and acupuncture's effects tend to be cumulative. Acute disorders can often resolve in fewer treatments, while chronic issues may require more treatments to affect change. Typically, treatments are given once per week for 3-7 weeks. As your symptoms improve, we can re-evaluate the treatment plan. Periodic maintenance as well as preventative treatments for general well-being are also encouraged.
What conditions does acupuncture treat?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), acupuncture treats and can help alleviate symptoms from the following disorders:
| Pain Conditions: • Facial pain • Neck pain • Upper back pain • Low back pain • Shoulder pain • Upper and lower extremity pain • Repetitive strain injury • Carpal tunnel syndrome • Osteoarthritis • Rheumatoid arthritis Neurological: • Headaches/migraines • Neuralgia • Neuropathy Psychological/Behavioral: |
Respiratory Conditions: • Allergies • Sinusitis • Asthma Gastro-intestinal: Women's Health: Other: |
If your condition or symptom isn't on this list, acupuncture can still be helpful.
For more information on the list of conditions successfully treated by acupuncture, go to World Health Organization (WHO) www.who.int