Acupuncture - Consultation

What to expect

What happens on my first visit?

You will be asked about your current symptoms, what treatment you have received so far, your medical history, and that of your close family, your diet, sleeping patterns and emotional state. To discover how the energies are flowing in your body, pulses on both wrists are felt, noting their quality, rhythm and strength. The structure, colour and coating of your tongue also gives a good guide to your physical health. Diagnosis according to the Chinese Medicine principles is established, following the identification of the underlying patterns of disharmony, and you will receive your first treatment. The consultation and treatment on your first visit lasts usually about an hour.

How many sessions will I need?

According to traditional acupuncture philosophy, each person is considered as unique, so the frequency and length of treatment depend on you as an individual. Change is usually felt after five treatments, but occasionally the effects of treatment are noticeable after only one or two treatments. With other patients, especially in ongoing chronic conditions, treatment may continue over several months or long-term.

Should my doctor know?

If you have been prescribed medication, you may want tell your doctor that you are planning or are having acupuncture treatments. You should always tell your acupuncturist about any medication you are taking as this may affect your response to the acupuncture treatment.

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