Your visit

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture, which originated in ancient China over 3,000 years ago, is one of the most widespread healing systems in the world. It is done by stimulating special points on the body using fine needles, heat, pressure, friction or other techniques. Acupuncture balances and facilitates the circulation of blood, body fluids and the flow of Qi/energy, through specific pathways/meridian of the body. Qi is the energy or life force that flows through the body. This optimizes the body’s ability to heal injury, illness and other dysfunction/disharmonies. Acupuncture is backed by a large body of scientific research and thousands of years in practice. It stimulates the release of pain-relieving endorphins, mobilizes the immune system, and activates natural opioids in the brain that relieve pain and promote sleep. Acupuncture also triggers the release of neurotransmitters and hormones that positively affect health.

What is a typical acupuncture visit like?

We’ll begin by discussing your chief complaint and your overall health. Then I’ll ask you a series of questions, may examine your pulse and tongue, and start your treatment. During the follow-up sessions, I’ll track your progress week-to-week, note any major changes, and tailor your treatment to those changes.

How many visits will I need?

In the initial treatment stage, acupuncture visits take place on a weekly basis; depending on the condition and the person, this schedule may last from a couple weeks up to a few months. Once the chief complaint subsides, a biweekly, monthly, or seasonal “tune up” is recommended. Each person has a different response to acupuncture. Some people have immediate results and others may take more time responding. Our goal is to gradually space treatments further apart, thereby allowing your body to take over its own balancing process.

What can I expect to feel after treatment?

The effects of acupuncture are cumulative and will continue throughout the week. Immediately after treatment you may feel great, elated, happy, at peace! Others may also feel extremely relaxed and content. Additionally, if we are working muscularly, you might feel sore at first, as if you had a workout, then feel relief the next day. We will specifically review your diagnosis and discuss effects that can be initially expected, then adjust your treatments moving forward.

Before you come

Does acupuncture hurt?

The needles are much thinner than those used for injections. Many people feel a brief pinch, a dull ache or nothing at all. Tell us if anything is uncomfortable.

What should I wear and bring?

Loose clothing that can be rolled to the elbows and knees. Bring a list of any medicines and supplements you take.

Is it safe if I take medication?

Tell us about everything you take at your visit. Please do not change or stop any prescribed medicine without talking to your doctor.

How do I change or cancel an appointment?

Use the link in your confirmation email, or contact us. Changes and cancellations need at least 24 hours’ notice. Inside that window the appointment cannot be moved online, so please contact us directly.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Results vary from person to person. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine complement, and do not replace, care from your doctor.