You might be wondering what happens when you go in for your first appointment with an acupuncturist.  Patients have usually downloaded the forms from the website and bring them to their first appointment.

The first appointment is usually an hour to and hour and half.  We spend time understanding what the problem is and what the underlying causes might be.  There are lots of questions.  Then we'll look at your tongue and take your pulse.  In Chinese medicine the tongue and the  pulse are used to help confirm a diagnosis.  We look at the color and shape of the tongue.  We also look at the coat or fur on the tongue.  These an are indicators of the body's overall health.  Their are nine pulses on each wrist.  We can confirm the overall health of the major organs in the body by taking your pulse.  We look at the color of your skin, your eyes, and your overall demeanor.  It's all part of developing a diagnosis.  

Then the patient lays on a massage table and I use acupuncture needles for a treatment.  Most needles are place on the arms or legs below the elbow or knees.   Loose clothing in these areas is helpful.

People ask if the needles are painful.  It varies from person to person but if a patient feels a needle, the sensation disappears very quickly.  Many times the needles are not felt.  They are as thin as a hair so it's easy to understand that they might not be felt.

While patient are on the tables with the needles in they may listen to a guided imagery or music or prefer silence.

I spend a lot of time explaining what I will do and why I will do it.  It's important to me that a patient understand how Chinese medicine will help them.    I answer any questions and set up a return appointment if it will be necessary.

I offer free consultations for anyone who would like to just ask questions about Chinese medicine and how it might help their medical problems.  Just call.