What to expect

What to expect at your Initial Appointment?

At your first appointment there will be an in-depth intake form to fill out. You will then meet with Sarah and go over your health history as well as your main health concern(s).

Traditional Chinese Medicine looks at the body as a whole, so we look at all the systems in the body before diagnosing and treating. Part of diagnosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine includes inspecting the tongue and also taking the pulse. Both of these are used to get a clearer idea of what is happening internally.

 

You'll then relax on the table with soft music and heat lamps if you desire while the needles do their thing. Often the first appointment is just acupuncture with one of the other modalities added in later on!

What to expect after your Appointment?

During the treatment a lot of energy is being moved throughout the body, and as a result, many people feel very relaxed after their treatment.  Our body stores toxins, especially in tight muscles and it is very important to move these out of your system.  This process can feel a bit draining; not to worry as this is a totally natural and good response.  Drinking lots of fluids and a good rest helps!

 

Some people notice a difference or a change after the first appointment and others don't feel much changing until the third appointment. Results tend to last longer as treatments go on and results are cumulative.

 

It is also possible to experience a "healing crisis", although not the usual response it is when someone's symptoms feel worse the day or 2 after and then start to get better. This is not always comfortable but a good sign that things are moving and shifting!

How many treatments will I need?

It is important to do between 4-8 treatments to get the full benefit of acupuncture. Sometimes it can take our bodies a few treatments before they are back in balance! Since everyone is different, everyone responds differently. The amount of treatments needed also varies, and can be discussed with Sarah.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

People can often feel when the needle is first inserted; it feels like a little sting. Once the needles are in the sensations vary; some people feel nothing, others feel warmth, tingling or an ache. These are all good, normal reactions!