What To Expect
For new patients, when first phoning for an appointment its helpful for me to spend a few moments hearing about your chief concerns. This lets me get an idea of what's been happening with you. A short chat is enough. It also gives you an opportunity to get some questions answered.
The first appointment is about 90 minutes long. After that, they run a little more or less than an hour. The initial session is longer because you'll spend 10 or 15 minutes with a fairly comprehensive health questionnaire. Then, we're going to talk awhile. As this will be our first chance to really speak, its best we dedicate a bit more time. It's important for us to carefully review your concerns and decide how to best respond before moving to the treatment.
You might find the interview a little different. It is a pretty thorough consultation, including a lot of particulars about your medical history and habits. The fine details are important in helping me understand what needs to be done to get you where you need to go.
Its hard saying exactly how it'll proceed, though, because each patient comes for treatment with a singular set of circumstances. This is the reason why a great number of people turn to acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. At its most basic understanding, this is an approach that recognizes patients are all of great difference and depths, and that their health reflects these unique qualities.
Many of those new to acupuncture will be surprised at how much they will be participating in their care. In this process, the relationship between us is one of partnership. While this might sound a little corny, it is also very true.
The number of treatments needed varies from patient to patient. Some patients experience significant improvement after only a few treatments, while others may take weeks or months to achieve lasting results. Nonetheless, a useful guideline for new patients interested in knowing how long something requires treatment is this: Fairly new conditions can often resolve much quicker than longstanding problems. Other factors influencing number of treatments required include the severity of the problem, the patient's lifestyle, overall health and constitution.
We can work toward whatever changes you'd like to realize in as timely and responsible way as possible, but keep in mind that quick fixes are few in the world and usually as valuable. We'll want to allow ourselves a proper chance to address the symptoms and causes of the difficulties you've been experiencing. The good news, however, is that the movement toward better health usually starts being felt almost right away.
A last word on a patient's involvement: With most problems, you're going to have to take your medicine. This means using traditional Chinese herbal remedies. It will ultimately be your choice if you want to take herbs, but I couldn't be more convinced at how they greatly increase the potential for a quicker, more satisfying resolution. In most cases, an herbal strategy will be in place by your second or third session.
The time in my office where you will actually receive needling is anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. You'll have to undress some to allow access to various acupuncture points. Not to worry, though, you will be respectfully covered.
A lot of people are concerned about feeling pain with acupuncture. Others assume its completely painless. Neither is wholly correct. You'll feel the needles. There might be a brief discomfort with some insertions. But it isn't overwhelming. Even for the most needle-sensitive, this shouldn't cause too great an anxiety.
Once the needles are in place, there isn't anything more to do than close your eyes and slow down. This time can be deeply relaxing and enjoyable.
Please, give me a call if you would like to discuss anything further. My hope is to be able to offer assistance to anyone looking for a natural, caring and effective medical perspective.