Frequently Asked Questions

During the first appointment, I will conduct a full health history interview. I will ask you questions about your symptoms, health and lifestyle. I will also feel your pulses and look your tongue. Depending on the reason for your visit. I may conduct a physical exam. The information I gather is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis.  After the interview process, you will receive an acupuncture treatment designed specifically for your unique diagnosis. 

All initial visits last between 75-90 minutes. Followup visits last anywhere from 60-75 minutes.

 

Always wear loose comfortable clothing so that I may easily access to your arms and legs.  

Eat a light snack or meal before your appointment---but make sure to avoid a large meal, this could cause discomfort for you during the treatments.   

Avoid strenuous exercising before and after your visit.  Refrain from taking drugs or alcohol 6 hours prior to and after your appointment.  

Upon needle insertion you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or dull ache.  Most people don't even feel the needle going in.  Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading or moving around the insertion site.  This is called "qi sensation"  all these reactions are good and are a sign that the treatment is working.  After your treatment you may feel energized or may experience a sense of deep relaxation and well-being.

There are 12 pulse positions on each wrist. Each position corresponds to a specific organ system and other physiological functioning. I will be feeling for 27 individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any imbalances, they will more than likely be felt in your pulse and will influence the diagnosis.

The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general state of health overall. I will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.  This again is used as a powerful diagnostic tool.

The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some experience immediate relief, others may take months or longer to experience results.   Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes.  

Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors including your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem and your active participation in your healing. i.e doing the homework that I recommend.

Depending on your specific condition, I may suggest one or two treatments per week, monthly visits for health maintenance or seasonal “tune-ups.”  



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Afterwards it is best to avoid stressful situation and give yourself time to relax if possible.  

Between visits, pay attention to any changes that may occur, such as decrease in pain level, how far the pain radiates and any changes in frequency or type of problems.