What should I expect during my first acupuncture visit?

      For the first visit, expect to spend and hour and a half. This will involve a comprehensive intake to gather detailed health history including past and present health complaints, family history, dietary habits, and lifestyle. The pulse will be palpated and the tongue will be examined for size, shape, color, and coating. This information will be used to help arrive at a Chinese medical diagnosis. The first treatment will involve acupuncture and perhaps other modalities such as massage, moxibustion, or cupping. Small hair-like needles are inserted into the surface of the skin. The needles will be retained for twenty to thirty minutes during which time the patient can rest. Most people find acupuncture to be a relaxing experience. The treatment may also include a Chinese herbal prescription, and lifestyle recommendations such as diet, exercise, and stress reduction techniques.

What are acupuncture needles like?

     Small, thin, hair-like needles are shallowly inserted into the skin. The needles are stainless steel and disposable in nature. Needles are often retained for twenty to thirty minutes. They are generally are not painful; sometimes they are not felt at all.

Is there anything I should do before the treatment?

     Come to your acupuncture visit having eaten. It is not good to receive acupuncture on an empty stomach. Please do not brush your tongue; the tongue gives me valuable information about your digestion, constitution, etc.

What should I expect during my first massage visit?

     For the first massage visit, expect to spend sixty or ninety minutes. This will involve a brief intake to discuss the needs of the individual. Massage can be used to treat an acute or chronic injury, or simply for relaxation. Various techniques will be employed ranging from Swedish massage for stress reduction to Deep Tissue or Sports massage to address recent injuries or long-standing conditions. The treatment may include recommendations for stretches as well as education on proper posture.