Your first visit
What happens at a first visit
It takes about 75 minutes, most of it a conversation. Return visits are 50.
You will not be asked to undress, and nothing happens before it is explained. If anything feels wrong at any point, say so and we stop.
Your first visit, in order
- 01
Step 1: Check in
You fill in a short form about your health history on paper when you arrive.
- 02
Step 2: We talk
About 20 minutes on your health, your work, your sleep and every medicine you take.
- 03
Step 3: Pulse and tongue
Your acupuncturist feels your pulse and looks at your tongue, and explains what they see.
- 04
Step 4: Needles and rest
Needles stay in for about 25 minutes while you rest. A call button is within reach.
- 05
Step 5: A plan
Before you go, we suggest what to do next and give you a receipt.
What to wear, eat and bring
Wear
Loose clothes that roll up past the elbow and the knee. We drape you and leave the room while you change.
Eat
A light meal a couple of hours before. Do not come very hungry or very full.
Bring
A list of your medicines and supplements, and your insurance card if you will send a receipt to your plan.
Leave time
Plan to arrive ten minutes early, and to go slowly afterward if you can.
Tell us first
Pregnancy
If you are or might be pregnant, tell us. Some points are left out.
Blood thinners or bleeding
Marks are darker and last longer if you take a blood thinner or bruise easily.
A pacemaker or implanted device
Tell us before your visit, so we know what to leave out.
Lymph node removal
We avoid needles on the side where lymph nodes were removed.
Needle fear or fainting
Tell us at booking. We go slowly, and you can lie flat.
Every medicine you take
Keep taking them as your doctor prescribed, and tell your prescriber you are coming to us.