What to expect on your first visit:
○ Your appointment will generally last from 1 to 1 ½ hours.
○ After checking in for your appointment, your acupuncturist will follow up on the information you provided in your intake forms during a 20-25 minute consultation. He/She may ask you a series of detailed questions about any health problems or symptoms you might be having.
○ In addition to your paperwork and consultation, your practitioner will also examine your tongue and feel your pulse in both wrists in order to arrive at a traditional Chinese medical diagnosis.
○ If you are taking any medication or herbal supplements please let your acupuncturist know.
○ After the initial consultation, you may be asked to remove your shoes and socks and lie down. Depending on the area to receive treatment, you may be asked to remove other articles of clothing. For your comfort and convenience we offer clean medical gowns that can be worn during your treatment.
○ After swabbing the various acupuncture sites with alcohol, your practitioner will insert very thin, sterile, disposable needles. Although some points are more sensitive than others, the patient will usually feel little to no sensation or discomfort. A heat lamp and/or space heater are available should you feel cold during your treatment.
○ The needles will be left in for approximately 25-35 minutes. During this time the practitioner will check on you several times, and a finger bell will be available should you need to contact your acupuncturist for any reason. Most people find acupuncture to be very relaxing; however, should you experience any pain or discomfort, please alert your practitioner right away so adjustments can be made.
○ If your practitioner thinks it would be beneficial to your treatment, he/she might make recommendations for traditional Chinese herbs, dietary and/or exercise changes as part of his/her suggested treatment plan.
○ After your treatment you’re invited to visit our reception desk to schedule your next appointment. Any herbs your acupuncturist recommended will be available for purchase.
After your visit:
○ Plan to take it easy after your treatment.
○ Sometimes after receiving an acupuncture treatment you may feel a little lightheaded or “woozy.” If that is the case, please sit for a while in our waiting area. In a few minutes you’ll be relaxed and clear-headed.
○ It’s best if you do not come to your appointment on an empty or full stomach.
○ Herbal prescriptions are intended only for the person for whom they were prescribed. Do not give herbal formulas to anyone else.
○ Very rarely, symptoms may become worse after an acupuncture treatment. This is often a sign that previously dormant conditions are being awakened so that complete healing may occur. This should pass quickly. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the clinic.
Article Source: https://aoma.edu/patients/professional-clinic/your-first-visit
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