What to Expect

A Chinese medical diagnosis is based upon a thorough consultation and examination.  For your first visit, please plan on being in the office for about 75 minutes. We will talk at length about your reasons for coming in, and will go through a full health history.  It is important for us to discuss all aspects of your health even though they may not seem directly related to your current issues.  Chinese medicine considers the whole body and can often draw correlation when it doesn’t seem obvious.  A variety of diagnostic tools may be used, including: pulse taking, observation of the tongue, physical examination, and palpation of the arms, legs and abdomen. An acupuncture treatment will follow, and the number of acupuncture points needled will vary anywhere from 4-16 points.  In conjunction, Tui na, cupping or moxibustion may be performed if indicated.   We will also discuss your treatment plan which include an herbal prescription or other self care exercises.  

Return visits last for about 60 minutes and will include a follow-up interview and physical examination.  Acupuncture points and herbal prescription may be adjusted to assure they match your current symptoms.  Your progress will be monitored and the treatment plan will be updated at each visit.

For those who are new to acupuncture, here are some things you should know:

  • All of our acupuncture needles are sterile and disposable.
  • Acupuncture needles are extremely fine (as fine as a human hair).
  • Acupuncture should not "hurt", although a little bit of sensation is good.  You might feel a quick pinch depending upon the location of the needle, but sensation shouldn’t remain sharp.  What you will likely feel can be described in many different ways, often slightly dull, heavy, moving, or tingling.
  • Most people feel a deep sense of relaxation during treatment, due to acupuncture’s ability to calm the nervous system

Preparing for your visit

Please wear something comfortable and loose fitting that will allow access to your arms and legs below the elbows and knees.

It is always a good idea to eat a little something before coming in.

Please bring in a list of all medications and supplements, as well as any medical reports that may pertain to your current issue.

Cancellation Policy

Please call or email 24 hours in advance to avoid a cancellation fee.