Acupuncture & Company

What should I expect from my first acupuncture treatment?

Your first visit will typically take up to 90 minutes or more and is very important in order for the practitioner to create a treatment plan specifically for you. You can expect a thorough consultation where you will be asked questions about your current health and medical history. Additionally, there will be a physical assessment which will include palpation of any areas of concern as well as feeling of your pulse and looking at your tongue. Pulse and Tongue Diagnosis are used to determine your state of health in terms of Chinese Medicine and help the practitioner determine which acupuncture points to use. If the practitioner determines that you are a candidate for acupuncture, you will receive your first treatment.

Tips on Preparing for Your First Visit

• Bring a list of your medications with dosage as well as any herbs, vitamins, and supplements

• Bring copies of recent diagnostic reports (laboratory tests, MRI, CAT scans)

• Wear loose fitting clothes

• Refrain from overexertion, alcohol or drugs (except those prescribed by your doctor) at least 6 hours prior to your visit

• Do not brush your tongue

• Do not come on an empty or overly full stomach and avoid drinking or eating anything that could change the color of your tongue, such as orange juice, chocolate, strong teas, candies/mints, coffee

How long do follow up visits last?

Follow up sessions are typically 45 to 60 minutes.

How many needles are used?

On the average we use 10-15 needles, (the amount depends on the condition).

How long do the needles stay in?

The needles are retained for 15-20 minutes. You do not have to be perfectly still but it is best not to make any big movements. Acupuncture is so relaxing that it is not uncommon for people to fall asleep during the treatment.

Do the needles hurt?
When considering acupuncture, our patients often tell us they are afraid of needles. They were reassured to learn that the needles are FDA approved as medical devices and are individually wrapped, totally sterile, and disposed of after one use. While you may feel a slight prick with some points, the discomfort last for only a second. Most patients discovered that the treatment is virtually painless because acupuncture needles are extremely thin and flexible -- approximately 16 acupuncture needles together equal the thickness of a pin.

How many treatments would I need?

The number of treatments required will depend on the severity and nature of your complaint. Sometimes as little as one treatment is all that is needed for an acute condition, while longer term illness may require a series of five to fifteen treatments. It is not uncommon for a patient to come to us after trying many different types of treatment for a chronic condition without relief. In these cases, the course of acupuncture may be extended.

Benefits of Acupuncture

 Safe and effective

 Drug-free

 Few side effects

 Treats the root of the symptom

 Addresses the whole of the person, including mind and body

Do you accept health insurance? 
We will be happy to provide you with a superbill, which is an invoice that you can submit to your insurance company for partial or full reimbursement, depending on your policy. You will be responsible for full payment of services rendered. Check with your insurance company regarding limitations to your coverage on acupuncture services. 

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