Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect:
Prior to visit:
Before you are seen we are glad to answer any questions you may have. This
can be done over the phone or in person during a complimentary 30 min. consultation.
You will be asked to fill out an in depth health questonaire so we can give
you the best care possible.
During your first visit:
A first visit usually takes about 1.5 hours. The first 30 min. is spent talking
about your condition and finding out about your overall health. Next we move
on to palpatory diagnosis looking at the tongue, feeling the pulse, and palpating
the abdoment for tenderness. These procedures help to pinpoint the imbalances
occureing in your body. Lastly, we insert the needles in specific acupoints
for your condition. Care is taken to ensure your comfort. You will relax
with the needles 20-30 min in a serene room. Many people fall asleep during
this portion of the treatment. The needles are then removed and we end the
treatment.
After your visit:
Most people feel very relaxed after an acupunctrure treatment. The body feels
more open and grounded. Usually a patient will notice a redunction in symptoms.
How to choose an Acupuncturist:
To become an acupuncturist one must go to a post secondary acupuncture school.
It is important that you choose some one sho has gone to an accredited acupuncture
school for 3-4 years and has passed the national exam given by the NCCAOM.
The practitioner must also be licensed by the state in which they practice.
It is also important that you find a person you are comfortable with and
with which you can communicate your condition effectively.
Will it hurt?
Many people are concerned that acupuncture wil be painful
due to their experience with getting shots in the past. Acupucnture
is virtually pain free because the needles are as thin as a streand
of human hair and are very flexible. Most people are surprised to
find out that they don’t
even feel the needles going in.
Are the needles safe?
All of the needles are single use disposable
needles. Licensed practioners are aware of human anatomy and know what
depths and angles are safe to insert without harming the body. All needles
sites are swabbed with alcohol prior to insertion and clean needle technique
is followed carefully to ensure the safety of the patient.
How many sessions will it take?
The amount of sessions needed to treat
a condition varies with the condition being treated as well as the health
of the patient. In general, an acute condition can be treated with 4-6
weekly or bi-weekly sessions. If a problem is chronic it will take more
treatments in order to resove the condition. Following exercise and dietary
suggestions can greatly speed up recovery time. Follow up treatments
are often suggested in order to maintain health and balance.