What to Expect Before and After Treatment
At your initial appointment there will be a detailed evaluation based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. I will ask you a series of questions regarding your chief complaint as well as details about all of your bodily functions from head to toe. This helps us determine a diagnosis and paint a clear picture of your specific needs.
Once I have a diagnosis, I develop a treatment plan together. This treatment plan can include an acupuncture prescription, nutritional and lifestyle recommendations and supplement suggestions.
Next is acupuncture. The needles used are sterile, single use, and superfine. They are placed at specific locations that correspond with your diagnosis.
Acupuncture needling can be uncomfortable in some cases, but overall it is minimally invasive and nothing to be intimidated by. If any needling sensation is uncomfortable or you are uncertain if it’s normal, do not hesitate to speak up.
You will feel a light pressure of the guide tube being pressed to the skin and a tap when the needle is inserted. After the initial insertion, there will likely be a warmth, heaviness, tingling or pressure around the area of the needle. These sensations are normal and desirable.
The performance of acupuncture promotes relaxation and can even lead to you falling asleep on the table. This is very common and there is often a feeling of general Ill-being post treatment.
A typical follow up appointment is about 1 hour and includes a shorter amount of interview time largely based on your progress and any new symptoms that have arisen.
Each person and medical presentation is different and therefore treatment response varies. Acute presentations can usually be resolved within 4-12 treatments whereas more chronic presentations may take longer. This will be explained to you during your treatment planning.
Like any holistic medicine, consistency is essential to success of treatment. It’s important to commit to your treatment plan, most likely with weekly treatments, in order to see the best results.
I am simply a facilitator of your healing, ultimately it is you, through the connection of your mind and body, that heals yourself. I’m here to offer my experience and perspective to guide you through your healing journey. Questions are welcome and encouraged at any point.
Have a little food in your stomach when you arrive for treatment
It is best not to receive acupuncture on an empty stomach. HoIver, having a stomach that is too full may also be less than comfortable. Do your best not to eat a heavy meal before or after your treatment session. Foods to avoid in the hours before treatment include: caffeine, drugs (even NSAIDs, unless necessary), and alcohol. These can alter your presentation and in some cases negate the effectiveness of treatment.
When you brush your teeth, refrain from brushing your tongue
There are many different ways I diagnose the body in Chinese Medicine. Interestingly enough, the color of your tongue, and even more specifically, the texture, thickness, and color of the tongue coating is important. Please avoid brushing or scraping your tongue at least 24 hours before treatment.
In the hours after treatment
Acupuncture is a technique that is aiming to teach the body to heal itself. The needles are messages to the body’s Qi to shift. These messages take a few hours to be embodied, thus it is important to relax after your treatment. Avoid any strenuous activity or stress for several hours after your session and drink plenty of water to assist your healing process.
If you catch a cold or flu, stop your supplements
In the event that you catch an acute illness, let me know. Some supplements can worsen symptoms of colds and flus and should be discontinued during the healing process. There may also be some nutritional suggestions to help your healing during that time.
Scheduling/Changing your appointment
I book appointments via phone call or text only at this time. I require 24 hours notice of cancellations or changes. If there is a reason you must cancel within that window, there may be a fee of 50% of the treatment cost. Please do your best to maintain your appointments and communicate clearly.
What to wear
Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment. Ideal clothes can be easily rolled up above your elbows and knees without cutting off circulation. If you are receiving a face down treatment, I will properly drape you. If improper clothes are worn, I will happily provide you with extra blankets for draping or alter your treatment protocol.
Your highest compliment is the referral of your family and friends
My business is majorly generated by word of mouth. If you have a loved one or friend struggling with their health I would be honored to speak with them about what I can potentially offer them. If I am not the best fit, I am more than happy to assist them the best I can in finding someone who is.
See you soon!
- Sara
