What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture stimulates healing by manipulating the natural, bio-electric field of the body.
Currents of energy—known as Qi—flow in pathways called meridians. Acupuncture points dot these pathways, conducting this bio-electric flow through and between internal organ systems. Extremely fine metal filaments (needles) or silver & gold implements are used to focus and direct this energy in therapeutic ways. Patients often remark how relaxed yet energized they feel following a treatment.
The practitioner may use additional therapies such as cupping, bodywork, and moxibustion to move, strengthen, and balance the Qi of the patient.
Strengthening one’s Qi helps to regulate heart rhythm and blood pressure, balance brain/body chemistry, balance hormone levels, and harmonize the function of vital organs.
Benefits Of Acupuncture:
• Reduced stress
• Reduced back and joint pain
• Relief from headaches
• Increased energy
• Better sleep
• Controlling blood pressure
• Improved healing after medical procedures
Common Conditions Treated:
• PTSD
• Depression
• Stress disorders
• Musculoskeletal problems
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Infertility
More About The Experience:
After the initial consultation, you will be asked to remove your shoes and socks, and to lie down. The needles will be left in for approximately 25-35 minutes. During this time, the practitioner will check on you several times. Most people find acupuncture to be very relaxing; however, should you experience any pain or discomfort, please alert your practitioner right away so adjustments can be made.
Pricing
What to Expect During Your First Acupuncture Session:
• Your appointment will generally last from 1 to 1 ½ hours.
• As a new patient you have 2 options for paperwork:
You may arrive approximately 30 minutes early for your appointment and fill it out in the waiting room
You may download forms from our website and fill them out before your appointment.
• The New Patient paperwork includes 1 Consent Form and 1 Health History Intake Form that should be read and filled out.
• After checking in for your appointment, your acupuncturist will follow up on the information you provided in your intake forms during a 20-25 minute consultation. Kathleen may ask you a series of detailed questions about any health problems or symptoms you might be having.
• In addition to your paperwork and consultation, your practitioner will also examine your tongue and feel your pulse in both wrists in order to arrive at a traditional Chinese medical diagnosis.
• If you are taking any medication or herbal supplements please let your acupuncturist know.
• After the initial consultation, you may be asked to remove your shoes and socks and lie down. Depending on the area to receive treatment, you may be asked to remove other articles of clothing. For your comfort and convenience we offer draping in all cases.
• After swabbing the various acupuncture sites with alcohol, your practitioner will insert very thin, sterile, disposable needles. Although some points are more sensitive than others, the patient will usually feel little to no sensation or discomfort. A heat lamp and blankets are available should you feel cold during your treatment.
• The needles will be left in for approximately 25-35 minutes. During this time the practitioner will check on you several times. Most people find acupuncture to be very relaxing; however, should you experience any pain or discomfort, please alert your practitioner right away so adjustments can be made.
• If your practitioner thinks it would be beneficial to your treatment, Kathleen may make recommendations for traditional Chinese herbs, dietary and/or exercise changes as part of his/her suggested treatment plan.
• After your treatment you’re invited to schedule your next appointment and make a payment if you have already not done so.
After Your Visit:
Plan to take it easy after your treatment.
Sometimes after receiving an acupuncture treatment you may feel a little lightheaded or “woozy.” If that is the case, please sit for a while in our waiting area. In a few minutes you’ll be relaxed and clear-headed.
It’s best if you do not come to your appointment on an empty or full stomach.
Herbal prescriptions are intended only for the person for whom they were prescribed. Do not give herbal formulas to anyone else.
Very rarely, symptoms may become worse after an acupuncture treatment. This is often a sign that previously dormant conditions are being awakened so that complete healing may occur. This should pass within 24 hours. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the clinic.