First Visit

Expect your initial appointment to take approximately 90 minutes. On your first visit, we will go through the "new patient intake form" with you. Health Information will be discussed thoroughly, so that we can get to know you, and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs. This is a great time to ask questions, share concerns and set goals. Your information will be kept confidential, and is used for treatment purposes only. 

Next, we will go through the "consent form" to ensure understanding of the methods used in a Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment, and outcomes you can expect. Again, please feel free to ask questions.

During your initial assessment we will continue our assessment with observation and palpation. This will include examination of your tongue’s shape, color, and coating; feeling the strength, rhythm and quality of your pulse; observing body constitution, mood, posture, complexion, and the condition of painful areas. Other additional physical examinations will depend on your individual health needs.  

Treatment generally begins with you laying comfortably on a treatment table. Treatment methods will be explained and implemented, with your consent. 

At times, you may be asked to remove or roll up parts of your clothing, to allow access to specific points. If appropriate, a sheet can be provided for your comfort.  

Acupuncture and other Traditional Chinese Medicine methods may be used during your treatment, including Tuina Massage, Cupping, Guasha, Moxibustion, Herbal Medicine, etc.  

 Sterile disposable needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points, which are situated in all areas of the body. Acupuncture needles are very thin, so insertion usually causes little or no discomfort. Between five and 20 needles are used in a typical treatment. You may feel a mild aching sensation when a needle reaches the correct depth. Needles may be manipulated by gently moving or twirling. Sometimes heat, or mild electrical pulses are applied. Needles are usually retained between 10 to 30 minutes, while you lie still, and relax. Needle removal is virtually painless. After an acupuncture treatment, most people report feeling very relaxed.  

Subsequent appointments usually take between 30 to 60 minutes.   

A common course of treatments for a single complaint would typically involve one or two treatments a week,  for 4 to 8 weeks. The number of treatments will depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and your individual response. Chronic long-term issues generally require longer periods of time for healing and recovery.   

Making Traditional Chinese Medicine a regular part of your healthy lifestyle, is a great way to keep your body in balance, and maintain or improve your overall wellness.