Your First Treatment
Your first treatment
What to expect
If this is your first Acupuncture treatment you may be feeling unsure of what to expect. Below describes what will happen during the first visit and most frequently asked questions
During your first visit with me, I need to gain a thorough understanding of your main complaint and your general health and lifestyle. This involves asking questions about your current symptoms and your medical history, as well as such things as your sleeping pattern, your appetite and digestion, and your emotional wellbeing. 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 to form a more complete picture of your health and lifestyle. I will also take your pulse on both wrists and may examine your tongue and feel for areas of muscular tension or pain.
Your main health complaint
When talking about your main complaint, I might ask you to describe in your own words what the symptoms feel like and how severe they are. You may also be asked how long you have been having the symptoms, whether they are constant or intermittent and how frequent they are. You should mention any medication that you are taking and whether you have tried any other therapies.
In order to make a diagnosis according to traditional Chinese medicine theory and to find the right treatment approach, I will also want to know more specific details.
Treatment plan and treatment
Based on all the information you have given, I will make a diagnosis and put together your treatment plan, which may include lifestyle and dietary advice as well as acupuncture. I use very fine, single-use, pre-sterilised needles to stimulate specific acupuncture points on your 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.
Techniques
As well as needling acupuncture points, I may use other Chinese medicine techniques such as:
- Moxibustion Therapy: Heat is applied to an acupuncture point or meridian using moxa (a therapeutic herb) and/or heat lamps to warm and relax muscles and qi
- Cupping: Glass cups with a vacuum seal are placed on the skin to stimulate blood flow and clear stagnant qi
Lifestyle advice
It is likely I will suggest ways in which you can 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.
Before treatment
What to expect
Before your first acupuncture session there are several things you should bear in mind:
- Many commonly used acupuncture points are located on the lower arms and legs, so it is helpful to wear clothing that allows easy access to these areas
- Try not to go for treatment on an empty stomach or straight after a heavy meal
- Do let me know if you are completely new to Acupuncture so that I can take extra time to explain what happens and ensure you are comfortable with the treatment.
After effects…
What to expect
- Most people find acupuncture relaxing and often feel very calm after a treatment. You may feel a little tired or sleepy and should take this into account if you are planning to drive or use heavy machinery straight after your treatment.
- You should refrain from vigorous exercise after treatment and, ideally, give yourself a little time to rest. It is also advisable not to drink alcohol for several hours after treatment.
- Acupuncture has very few side effects and any that do occur are usually mild and self-correcting. Cupping can sometimes temporarily mark the skin., such bruising is painless and generally clears within a day or two.
On the day…
What to expect
Turn off or silence your mobile.. You have entered a peaceful space
Consultation: We will review your health history, issues and goals. The practitioner may take your pulse, examine your tongue and palpate areas of your body to identify tender spots.
Acupuncture Treatment: Hang up your jacket. Remove your shoes and place your belongings under your chair. Take a deep breath & prepare to relax. Needles are generally placed in the arms and legs but might also be placed in other locations. All needles are sterile, single use, non-toxic and disposable.
Relax! After the needles are applied most patients feel a sense of deep relaxation. Treatments typically last from 20min to 30 minutes, after the consultation. I will leave you alone to relax for this period. I will come and wake you gently when it’s time to remove your needles. Falling asleep is not uncommon and I actively encourage deep relaxation/meditation during your treatment.
Your Questions Answered
If you have any questions about any of the information on this site please head over to the FAQs page or get in touch using the contact form below and I’ll be happy to help.
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