Your first visit
Some patients may feel a bit of anxiety about their first visit, which is a perfectly normal reaction to a brand new experience.
On the other hand, many of our patients have routine acupuncture visits for relaxation and therapeutic purposes.
Even those of our patients who are nervous around needles find the experience to be vastly different from the typical doctor's office experience.
Below, you'll discover what you can expect before, during, and after your first acupuncture session.
Preparing for your visit
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing if possible.
It's best not to come on an empty stomach, so have a bite to eat before treatment.
We ask that you avoid alcoholic beverages on the day of your treatment.
PRIOR TO TREATMENT
You'll be asked to come to the office about 30 minutes early on a full stomach to fill out some preliminary paperwork.
You'll be escorted back to a private treatment room with a bed.
Barry will meet with you to discuss your condition and explain the treatment procedure in detail.
Depending on the treatment, you may be asked to change into a gown for your own comfort.
During Treatment
For acupuncture, the acupuncture points will be prepped with an alcohol pad before sterile needles are administered.
Once the needles are placed, the lights will be dimmed and you'll be asked to lie still for about half an hour.
After half an hour, the needles will be removed. There's typically no bleeding or bandages involved.
For details on cupping therapy, click here.
After Treatment
During payment and checkout, your next appointment will be scheduled, if applicable.
You'll be asked to avoid very cold food or drinks for two hours after your treatment ends, but to remain well hydrated.
You'll also be asked to avoid exercise or strenuous activity on the day of your treatment.
“Where medicine only treated the symptoms, acupuncture treated the root of the problem.”