What you should know before you try acupuncture

Knowing up front what to expect at your first acupuncture appointment can ease your mind and bring up questions to pose early on so that there are no surprises. At our clinic, we strive to offer you the most relaxing experience. If there is ever anything that is even mildly uncomfortable physically or otherwise during your treatment, be sure to let us know.

Before your first acupuncture session there are several things you should keep in mind:

1. Wear loose fitting clothing

Many commonly used acupuncture points are located on the lower arms and legs, so it is helpful to wear clothing that can be rolled up to allow easy access to these areas.

2. Don’t go on an empty stomach

I suggest eating a light meal 1-2 hours prior to your treatment so that your blood sugar is well maintained and your body has enough energy to maximize the treatments potential. Receiving acupuncture on an empty stomach may lead to light-headedness, nausea, dizziness or even fainting.

3. Do not scrape or brush your tongue on the day of your treatment

Acupuncturists can learn a lot about the state of your internal organs by looking at your tongue. Your acupuncturist may examine your tongue and feel for areas of muscular tension or pain. In Chinese medicine, the tongue is thought to be a “microcosm” of the entire body. This means that the entire body is reflected onto the tongue in such a way that observing the quality of the tongue in particular areas tells the practitioner something about the corresponding area of the body. Read more about tongue diagnosis.

4. Expect questions that appear unrelated to your condition

Your practitioner will ask about your current symptoms and your medical history, as well as such things as your sleeping patterns, your appetite and digestion, urinary function, sexual function, emotional wellbeing and basic level of stress. Women are also asked about their menstrual cycle and any past pregnancies and childbirth. You might feel that some questions appear unrelated to your condition but the information you give helps your practitioner form a more thorough understanding of your health and lifestyle.

5. Needle placement may not make sense to you

Based on all the information you have given, the practitioner will make a diagnosis and put together your treatment plan. Treatment will consist of the use of needles or pressure to access the chi of the channels, usually at specific points along the body. Because energy meridians range across the whole body, the points used are not necessarily close to where you experience pain or discomfort. For example, if you suffer from headaches needles might be inserted in your foot or hand.

6. Acupuncture needles are tiny

Acupuncture needles are about the width of two human hairs. You often can’t even feel the needles being placed and most people are so relaxed during their treatment that they fall asleep. If you have a fear of needles, please let your practitioner know.

7. Expect more than just needles

In addition to acupuncture, your practitioner may use other Chinese medicine techniques such as:

– Tuina: Chinese therapeutic massage relieves muscle tension, stimulates acupressure points, opens energy meridians and stimulate the flow of chi

– Cupping: glass cups with a vacuum seal are placed on the skin to stimulate blood flow and clear stagnant chi

– Guasha: vigorous rubbing of the skin increases blood flow and clears stagnant chi.

– Lifestyle advice: suggestions to enhance the long-term effects of your treatment. This may involve making changes to your diet and daily routine. If necessary you will be referred to other healthcare practitioners for specialist care.

8. One treatment is not enough

Acupuncture is a process. After your treatment, your acupuncturist will likely recommend several follow-up appointments. In general, conditions that have been a problem for longer will take longer to resolve. However, you should notice gradual improvement in your symptoms after each treatment and will usually notice other improvements as well (see side effects of acupuncture).

9. Plan to take it easy after your treatment

Most people find acupuncture relaxing and often feel very calm after a treatment. However, some people sometimes report feeling a bit spacey and for this reason you should give yourself time to relax. Try your best to take it easy, refrain from vigorous exercise following your treatment, and plan for a good night’s sleep.

Drink plenty of water to support the detoxification process and eat healthy and nutritious foods. It is also advisable not to drink alcohol for several hours after your treatment.

If you have any questions before your first treatment, please call our office and will be happy to assist you.