Appointment Prep

My goal is to make your session as comfortable as possible. This information will help you know what to expect before your appointment. Not finding what you want? Please contact me directly

 What Happens During An Acupuncture Session?

Your initial appointment can take about 75 minutes.  Subsequent appointments usually take about an hour.  I might ask you many questions about your symptoms, work, interests, lifestyle, and medical and family history.  I will also massage, palpate or observe:

• Your fingers, arms, head, scalp, chest, abdomen, toes and legs, back, hips, shoulders and neck

• The parts of your body that are painful or perhaps compensating for the painful area

• Your complexion and the color and texture of your nails, skin, hair, as well as the sparkle in your eyes

Most patients find the acupuncture session very relaxing and sometimes fall asleep. Using the treatment time to reconnect with our body hastens the healing process--so please relax and enjoy yourself.   Some people feel relaxed, and others feel energized.  Plan to take it easy for a while after your treatment. 

What Can I Expect During The Treatment?

After selecting the acupuncture points, the skin will be cleaned with alcohol, and a sterilized disposable needle as thin as a hair will be placed into the point. Often patients will not feel the needle, but some may experience slight heaviness or tingling. After insertion, the needles stay in place for 10-15 minutes. Most patients feel pleasantly relaxed during this time. To enhance the effect of acupuncture, the practitioner may choose to use additional modalities such as moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, and/or infra-red heat therapy. Chinese medicinal herbs may be prescribed to support the acupuncture treatment.

Will Acupuncture Hurt?

Acupuncture needles are extremely thin, and the insertion is virtually painless for most patients. Each unique person experiences acupuncture treatment differently. Patients may feel nothing, heaviness, distention, dull ache, warmth, and/or a tingling sensation. While the treatment may sometimes feel uncomfortable, it will rarely, if ever, produce pain. Your comfort before, during, and after acupuncture is of paramount importance. Do not hesitate to voice any concerns or reservations you may have before or during your treatment. Many patients experience a relaxed and peaceful state during the session.