How long does an acupuncture visit take?

Your first visit is approximately 1.5 hours and involves an initial consultation in which a diagnosis is made and we determine which TCM treatments are right for you. After the consultation we move right into the first treatment in the same visit. Follow up appointments consist of a much shorter intake/diagnosis period before treatment and generally last about 1 hour (Sport Therapy, Fertility, and Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments generally last an hour and fifteen minutes).

Do the acupuncture needles hurt?

Most people are surprised and relieved to learn that acupuncture needles are very thin-unlike hypodermic needles, which are thick and hollow. Acupuncturists can attain a high level of skill in gently placing these tiny needles and often the insertion is barely perceptible. The needles are usually inserted only several millimeters in depth. Patients generally do not feel the painful piercing or pricking sensation typically associated with an injection, blood sample, or other medical procedure. The acupuncture needles are disposable and only used one time.

How should I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?

Patients should eat before coming to an acupuncture treatment and should wear comfortable clothes that can be easily pushed above the knees and elbows. Patients should be prepared to refrain from rigorous exercise for at least two hours before and after treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

In China it is typical for a patient to receive acupuncture 2 times a week for several months when treating a condition. It is true that acupuncture is a process and that it is very rare for one treatment to resolve any problem. During the consultation we will be able to tell you what kind of course of treatment we expect for you and your condition. The range is generally from 4 treatments for a minor and recent complaint, to 3-6 months of treatment 1-2 times a week for a more chronic and serious complaint. In order to make treatment realistic and possible for our patients we have incorporated community acupuncture into our clinic.