Because acupuncture needles are so thin, most patients do not feel them being inserted. However, common sensations reported are heaviness, tingling, or pressure. If you are afraid of needles, please mention this to your practitioner so that they can tailor your treatment plan.

The World Health Organization and National Institutes of Health have expressed support for acupuncture in treating the following conditions: Addiction Anxiety Arthritis Asthma Bronchitis Carpal Tunnel Chronic Fatigue Depression Digestive Issues Dizziness Emotional Disorders Eye Problems Facial Palsy Fatigue Fertility Fibromyalgia Headache Incontinence Indigestion IBS Low Back Pain Menopausal Symptoms Menstrual Issues Migraine Morning Sickness Osteoarthritis Pain Rhinitis Sciatica Sleep Disturbances Smoking Cessation Stress Tennis Elbow Trigeminal Neuralgia If you do not see the health condition that you are seeking treatment for in the list above, please contact our office.

While side effects of acupuncture are rare, the most commonly reported side effects include: bruising, fatigue, soreness, and bleeding. The most common side effect of cupping is bruising, which can last for 1-10 days. As with any medical procedure, please notify your practitioner of any prior diagnosis or prescription medications that could cause worsening of these symptoms, such as bleeding disorders or consumption of blood-thinning medications.

Acupuncture is beneficial for those seeking relief from a variation of health issues. Balance can be restored in the body through a holistic approach that maximizes your body’s healing process. Acupuncture is safe for pregnant patients, young, elderly, and everyone in between.

Your first appointment will begin with a complimentary 15-minute consultation. Should you decide that acupuncture is not for you, you will not be charged for the appointment. If you choose to continue with the appointment, we will then discuss your medical history, current health concerns, specific symptoms, and lifestyle. After proper assessment and examination, I will look at your tongue and take your pulse in order to determine the underlying root causes of your presenting symptoms. We will then walk through your tailored care plan, which maps out the number and duration of recommended sessions in order to address your health concerns. Sessions in your care plan may include, but are not limited to: acupuncture, cupping, ear seeds, infrared therapy, and nutrition education. Next, we will begin your first acupuncture treatment. Please wear clothing that will allow the problem area to be examined easily. Your first session will conclude with post-treatment care instructions to enhance and prolong your first acupuncture treatment! Please note: We ask that you submit all new patient paperwork at least 24-hours prior to your first appointment.

There are several things you can do before and after your appointment to make sure you receive the maximum benefit from each treatment. Before your appointment: Have a light meal or snack 30-90 minutes before your treatment to avoid dizziness or fainting, wear loose clothes to allow the acupuncturist to access the problem area, and do not drink alcohol for at least 12 hours before each treatment. After your appointment: avoid strenuous activity for at least 8 hours, avoid alcohol and heavy/greasy meals, properly hydrate, get adequate rest, take note of any changes in the way that you feel so that you can report these changes during your next appointment, and call or email with any questions, comments, or concerns. For cupping appointments, it is recommended that you avoid extreme temperatures (hot showers, saunas, cryotherapy) for at least 4-6 hours after your treatment.

A recommended treatment plan will be given to each patient during their first appointment after a proper consultation and diagnostic process. Follow-up sessions are typically estimated based on the duration and severity of the disease or complaint. Generally, improvements in acute conditions are seen faster than chronic/severe conditions. While each patient’s treatment plan is different, most appointments are recommended once or twice a week for the 2-3 week, followed by weekly or bi-weekly appointments. Upon improvement of the chief complaint, many patients choose to continue monthly appointments to maintain and achieve continued and optimal health.