What can I expect during my first visit?
A complete TCM exam will be taken. We will discuss one-on-one, in depth, your health history, lifestyle, current health concerns or goals, and questions you may have. You will be asked personal questions about your sleep patterns, digestion, menstruation (for women), bowel movements, mood, and more. Your pulse will be checked on both wrists, and your tongue color and coat examined. Energy channels on the body may be palpated for temperature changes, to locate and understand the nature of your pain, and to select the most effective treatment. Certain lifestyle and dietary suggestions may be discussed. You will receive treatment based on your individual condition. In most cases disrobing is not necessary, however gowns and linens are available.
How long will my appointment be?
First time office visits including treatment may range from an hour to a little over. Returning visits are about forty five minutes.
Can I do anything to prepare for my first visit?
Please wear comfortable clothing to your treatment. Be sure to eat sensibly within two hours of your treatment and not have an empty stomach. It is best to avoid caffeine and alcohol prior.
What can I expect during my treatment?
Acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, or gua sha may be used and/or herbal medicine prescribed. Single use, sterile, disposable needles are used. Needles are retained from anywhere between 15-45 minutes depending on the treatment. You are encouraged to take this time clear your mind, focus on your breath, and allow your body to rest.
What does acupuncture feel like, does it hurt?
We have a gentle yet effective approach to treatment and believe that acupuncture shouldn’t be painful. Each person’s body experiences acupuncture treatments differently, however most feel little to no pain. Some patients notice a sensation of warmth, feel movement in their body, feel tingling, sharpness, numbness, or tightness. These are all normal. Some find the process energizing and others relaxing.
How often should I receive treatment?
The length and number of treatments differs from person to person depending on the age, lifestyle, condition being treated, and how your body responds to treatment. Acupuncture is a gradual process assisting your body in making changes. Conditions that are more acute generally take less time to treat than those that are chronic (have been ongoing for years). Some notice positive results immediately, while others experience them over a period of time. Some conditions require multiple visits per week, while others once per week. For menstrual issues it is advised to give the treatments three menstrual cycles for the body to respond. Once balance has been maintained it is helpful to get regular ‘tune up’ treatments to maintain health. Taking herbal medicine and making lifestyle changes along with acupuncture can accelerate treatment.
What is your cancellation policy?
Out of respect for other patients please give at least 24 hours notice to change or cancel an appointment. Patients who do not adhere to the cancellation policy will be charged the full cost of an office visit.
Do you take insurance?
We are an out-of-network provider for insurance plans. We can provide you with a super bill for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement if your insurance covers out-of-network acupuncture services.