Your First Visit
When you arrive for your first acupuncture appointment after filling out a few forms, we will discuss your condition in depth in order to have a complete understanding of your condition. The acupuncture intake form asks questions about your current state of health, past illnesses, and medication list as well as family history. I prefer to ask these questions in person as I feel you are best authority on your own health and I want to know what you know and what you really think will help you to heal. These questions are important because the holistic approach of Oriental medicine takes everything into account. Your current symptoms may not seem related to past health issues, but our bodies are complex landscapes and everything that happens to them leaves its mark.
As we are discussing your condition, please feel free to ask any questions you may have and I will do my best to answer them. Then I will examine your pulse and tongue, which are two of the basic diagnostic methods of Oriental medicine. The acupuncture points I choose will depend on your condition. Once the needles are inserted, I will leave you to lie comfortably for 15-20 minutes or longer if needed with the needles in place. Many people find acupuncture treatment deeply relaxing, and it is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep during this time.
Please allow between 1.5 hours to 2 hours for the first visit. Subsequent visits will be between 45 minutes to an hour.
