WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT MY INITIAL VISIT?
At your initial visit, I will conduct a thorough evaluation, develop a treatment plan, and provide you with your first acupuncture treatment. The first visit is about 1.5 hours in length including acupuncture treatment. Based on your medical history and current symptoms, I may provide herbal recommendations and suggest supplemental modalities such as cupping, moxa or gua sha to accompany your acupuncture treatment. Supplemental modalities are included during your initial treatment. Follow up treatments are 1 hour and include consultation, exam, and acupuncture treatment. You will not be charged for supplemental modalities unless we have discussed them first and you have provided your consent.
DOES ACUPUNCTURE HURT?
While many new patients express concern about being “needled” for the first time, almost every patient is surprised at how easy, painless and gentle acupuncture really is. You may feel a pricking sensation with the insertion of the needle but this sensation should subside almost immediately. Other feelings you may have during your treatment can be heaviness, tingling, numbness or electric sensations which are positive signs of the efficacy of treatment. Most patients experience a deep sense of relaxation and calm during the course of their treatment.
HOW MANY TREATMENT SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
The frequency and number of treatments differ from person to person. Some people experience dramatic relief in the first treatment. For complex or long-standing chronic conditions, one to two treatments per week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, fewer visits are required. An individualized treatment plan that includes the expected number of treatments will be discussed during your initial visit.
DO I NEED TO TAKE HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS?
I may recommend an herbal formula to complement and augment your acupuncture treatment and/or to speed up the process of recovery. Herbal supplements come in the form of pills, powders (to be consumed as a tea), or raw herbs that are decocted (cooked) at home. The herbs from Lore Acupuncture and Wellness have been carefully sourced. I am considerate of both budget and lifestyle when customizing the best herbal prescription for you.