How long will my course of treatment be?

The length of treatment differs widely depending on the person and the condition that is being treated.   Acute conditions like a cold or an acute injury will often only require a few treatments. Chronic conditions, including PMS, asthma, and chronic back pain, will generally require treatment over a longer period of time.  However, you should start to see changes in the condition within the first few treatments.

The general health of the person being treated also affects the length of treatment. A fairly healthy individual is expected to respond faster than someone who is depleted from long-term illness.  Since each person responds differently to acupuncture, it may take a few treatments before an accurate estimate of the number of treatments that will be necessary.

How should I prepare for my acupuncture session?

Please complete the forms that will be emailed to you prior to your visit. Please bring a current list of medications you are taking. Gather any lab tests or imaging (MRI, X-ray) results that you have for your condition and email them or bring them with you to your first appointment.

Please wear loose fitting clothing if possible and be sure to eat something within the 1-2 hour period before you come to your acupuncture appointment.  For the purposes of diagnosis, please do not brush your tongue on the day of your appointment.

What does acupuncture feel like?

Acupuncture can elicit a range of sensations.  At some points you may not feel anything, while at others you may feel a dull heavy sensation around the needle.  Sometimes that dull, heavy sensation will move during the treatment.  These are all normal responses to acupuncture.  Any sharp or nerve-like feelings are rare, and should be reported to the practitioner if they occur.  Most patients report a sense of deep relaxation after a treatment.

What happens during an acupuncture session?

In a typical first appointment, your practitioner will take a detailed health history, perform a physical exam, and fully investigate your chief complaint.   In addition to any orthopedic testing specific to your condition, the physical exam may include taking the pulse and examining the tongue.  Joel will discuss the treatment plan with you and may recommend herbal therapy and dietary changes.  Acupuncture needles are generally retained for 15-30 minutes. Depending on the complexity of your condition, the initial appointment may last up to 60-90 minutes.   Return visits typically last about 30-45 minutes

How safe is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is very safe when practiced by a licensed practitioner.  All needles are sterilized, single-use, disposable needles and Clean Needle Technique is employed at all times.  Acupuncture is also very safe for women who are pregnant and is a great way to support your health during your pregnancy.