What to Expect

Your first visit

Your first acupuncture visit is an opportunity to talk about what’s bringing you in, understand your health history, and develop an individualized approach to treatment.

We will discuss your current concerns, when they began, what affects them, and anything else that may be relevant to your health. You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions and talk about what you’d like to get from acupuncture.

A traditional Chinese medicine assessment is part of the process. This may include looking at your tongue and feeling your pulse, along with considering other patterns in your health.

Your treatment is then designed around your individual situation.

During treatment

Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile, single-use needles inserted at specific points on the body.

Needles may be placed in areas related to your primary concern, as well as other points chosen according to your individual treatment.

Once the needles are in place, you will generally rest quietly for a period of time.

Many people find acupuncture treatments deeply relaxing. You don’t need to do anything during treatment. Simply allowing yourself to rest is part of the experience.

If you have questions or concerns about the needles, sensations, or anything else during your treatment, you’re always welcome to ask.

How long is a visit?

Your first visit allows additional time for your health history, assessment, discussion, and treatment.

Follow-up visits generally include a brief check-in about what’s changed since your previous treatment, followed by your individualized treatment.

The frequency of treatment depends on your concerns, how you’re responding, and what makes sense for you. Some people begin with more frequent visits and gradually space them out. Others come periodically for ongoing support.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the areas being treated.

Loose-fitting clothing is often easiest. Depending on your treatment, you may be asked to roll up sleeves or pant legs or otherwise expose specific areas.

If you’re coming directly from work or another activity, don’t worry about having a particular type of clothing. We’ll work with what you’re wearing.

What does acupuncture feel like?

Acupuncture needles are much thinner than the needles commonly used for injections or blood draws.

You may feel a brief pinch or sensation as a needle is inserted. Once the needles are in place, you may notice sensations such as heaviness, warmth, tingling, or a feeling of relaxation. Some people barely notice the needles at all.

Everyone responds differently, and you can always let me know if something doesn’t feel comfortable.

How many treatments will I need?

There isn’t a fixed number of treatments that applies to everyone.

The number and frequency of visits depend on what you’re coming in for, how long you’ve been experiencing the concern, your overall health, and how your body responds to treatment.

We’ll reassess as we go rather than continuing treatment simply because a particular number of visits was recommended at the beginning.

What should I do before my appointment?

It’s generally helpful to eat normally before treatment rather than arriving very hungry.

Wear comfortable clothing and allow yourself enough time that you don’t have to rush into your appointment.

If you take medications or have significant medical conditions, please include that information when discussing your health history so your treatment can be appropriately considered.

Acupuncture and your other healthcare

Acupuncture can be used alongside conventional medical care and other healthcare approaches.

If you’re seeing a physician, physical therapist, fertility specialist, chiropractor, or another healthcare provider, acupuncture can be part of that broader approach to your health.

Acupuncture does not replace appropriate medical evaluation or treatment. If you have a new, severe, unusual, or worsening symptom, seek appropriate medical care.

After your treatment

Give yourself a little time after your appointment before immediately rushing into your next activity if your schedule allows.

People respond to acupuncture differently. Some feel relaxed or tired after treatment, while others simply go about their day normally.

Your response is also part of what helps guide future treatment.

Questions before you begin?

If you’re not sure whether acupuncture is appropriate for what you’re experiencing, you’re welcome to get in touch.

Contact Stephanie