What Can I Expect?

Your initial intake will consist of reviewing your medical history and gathering vital information that will determine your diagnosis and subsequent care plan. Chris will look at your tongue and take your pulse, in addition to asking you questions that may not seem relevant to your symptoms (digestion, diet, sleep, tolerance to heat and cold, etc.). However, this is crucial information for a TCM diagnosis.

Your first visit will be approximately 30--45 minutes and on your second visit we will go over your report of findings as well as a care plan. Subsequent visits will generally last 45--55 minutes.

Acupuncture works cumulatively and therefore, takes time, like tending to a garden or learning a new skill. Each person is unique and, therefore, responds differently to acupuncture. Generally, acute conditions can be treated effectively within a few sessions. Chronic conditions, which have developed over years, may lengthen the period of time for positive results. Whatever the case is for you, be patient with your healing process and stick with it.

There are signs to tell if acupuncture is creating a positive shift and working for you. Feeling less stressed is one of the first beneficial side-effects of acupuncture. You may also notice you are sleeping better, have more energy and your digestion is balanced. Complying with any lifestyle modifications that we’ve suggested will help accelerate the healing process and get you back to prime health.

You know the saying, “Things get worse before they get better. Keep going.”? Occasionally, your symptoms may temporarily increase after your first couple of sessions. This is known as “the healing crisis” and it is completely normal, and usually only lasts a couple of days. The best course of action is to stay hydrated, rest, get more sleep and breathe deeply.