What to expect?
Your first visit requires approximately an hour. During this time you will have an opportunity to speak at length about your health concerns. Your practitioner will do an intensive intake interview covering your medical and social histories as well as a review of your systems. After this, a physical exam will take place, as well as an akabane (heat) treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions, one or two treatments per week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required. For health maintenance, four sessions a year (or seasonal tune-ups) may be all that is necessary.
What are the side effects?
Usually, there are no side effects. As energy is redirected in the body, internal chemicals and hormones are stimulated and healing begins to take place. Occasionally, the original symptoms worsen for a few days. Other general changes such as appetite, sleep, bowel or urination pattern, or emotional state may be triggered. These should not cause concern, as they are simply indications that the acupuncture is starting to work.
Does it hurt?
Often people are interested in acupuncture, but are afraid of needles. However, the tiny, sterile, disposable filament needles used for acupuncture bear no resemblance to painful hypodermic needles, and insertion is virtually painless. Brief needling sensations vary from a pinching or stinging sensation, to a numbness or distension and are a sign that the treatment is having a positive effect. In fact, most people find acupuncture treatments relaxing and refreshing.
How Do We Pay?
We require payment a the time of service. While we do not file insurance for you, we do provide you with insurance coded receipts so that you can file yourself if you are covered. Acupuncture is a tax deductible medical expense. Many people also pay through their flex spending accounts at work.