WHAT TO EXPECT
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INITIAL APPOINTMENT
During the initial 90-minute appointment, I take a thorough health history before we begin treatment. After I make my diagnosis, I then insert ultra-thin, single-use, disposable needles into points on the body that correlate with the pattern I observe. There may be a brief, slight sensation upon insertion of the needles, which often subsides into a pleasant state of relaxation. You will be able to rest with the needles for about 30 minutes. If appropriate, I may also treat with cupping or Te Yi Medical Qigong.
HERBAL MEDICINE
Herbal medicine is a way to support the body’s healing process between treatments. Herbal formulas are prescribed as tinctures, a powdered tea extract, or pills and capsules. In addition to prescribing an herbal formula, specific dietary changes may be discussed to address specific health concerns.
FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS
Follow-up appointments are 60 minutes and consist of a brief intake followed by acupuncture and other appropriate modalities. I typically recommend a course of treatment of 4-10 visits depending on your condition. Acute conditions, such as a recent injury or the flu, will benefit from treatments 2-4 times a week over the course of 2-4 weeks. Chronic conditions, such as hormonal issues, often require treatment once a week for 3 months or more before lasting change can be effected.
Before you come in:
Once you get here:
After you leave:
During the initial 90-minute appointment, I take a thorough health history before we begin treatment. After I make my diagnosis, I then insert ultra-thin, single-use, disposable needles into points on the body that correlate with the pattern I observe. There may be a brief, slight sensation upon insertion of the needles, which often subsides into a pleasant state of relaxation. You will be able to rest with the needles for about 30 minutes. If appropriate, I may also treat with cupping or Te Yi Medical Qigong.
HERBAL MEDICINE
Herbal medicine is a way to support the body’s healing process between treatments. Herbal formulas are prescribed as tinctures, a powdered tea extract, or pills and capsules. In addition to prescribing an herbal formula, specific dietary changes may be discussed to address specific health concerns.
FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS
Follow-up appointments are 60 minutes and consist of a brief intake followed by acupuncture and other appropriate modalities. I typically recommend a course of treatment of 4-10 visits depending on your condition. Acute conditions, such as a recent injury or the flu, will benefit from treatments 2-4 times a week over the course of 2-4 weeks. Chronic conditions, such as hormonal issues, often require treatment once a week for 3 months or more before lasting change can be effected.
Before you come in:
- Please print and fill out the New Patient Intake Form.
- Please wear comfortable loose fitting clothing.
- If you plan on using insurance, please fill out and send your practitioner the Insurance Information Form at least 48 hours before your treatment.
- Make sure to have a little bite to eat before you come for your treatment. You don’t need to be super full, but it’s not a good idea to get a treatment on an empty stomach.
- Please refrain from wearing scents or perfumes, as some patients are sensitive to scents.
Once you get here:
- Expect to be in the office for approximately an hour.
- We’ll have a chat about your health, past and present.
- We’ll check your pulse and take a look at your tongue to help form a diagnosis and treatment plan.
- We’ll gently insert hair-thin, single use, sterile needles to regulate your body’s vital energy, or Qi.
- You may feel a small prick when the needle is inserted. You may also feel a heaviness, or a gathering sensation near the needle. If you are uncomfortable, or if something is painful, please let your practitioner know.
- The needles will stay in for about 30 minutes, during which time most people fall asleep or meditate.
- Your treatment may also include massage or cupping, if necessary.
After you leave:
- Generally people feel relaxed after an acupuncture treatment.
- Drink lots of water to flush toxins from your system.
- It’s not recommended to drink alcohol or engage in rigorous physical activity right after a treatment.
- If you have any questions or concerns, or if anything comes up for you after your treatment, please contact your practitioner.