Patient Information – Acupuncture

Initial acupuncture sessions are 90 minutes long and typically include the following:

1. A detailed interview about your health history. Don’t be alarmed if you are asked questions that seem irrelevant to your chief complaint. In traditional East Asian medicine, it is essential to consider the whole person when making a diagnosis.
2. A physical exam. This may include observation of your tongue, radial pulse palpation of both the left and right wrists, abdominal palpation and examination of any painful or problem areas.
3. Treatment. You will lie on a softly padded and heated massage table. Fine, sterile, single-use needles will be inserted with little, if any, discomfort into points in your skin as indicated for your condition. You may be treated lying face up and/or face down and the needles will be retained while you relax for just a few minutes to up to 30 minutes. Moxibustion, cupping, massage or other techniques may also be performed if necessary.
4. A discussion of recommendations your clinician may have regarding your treatment plan along with time to answer any questions you may have. This may include the frequency and number of treatments required, dietary and lifestyle suggestions, at-home exercises and recommended supplements/herbal formulas.

How to prepare

1. Please complete all new patient paperwork via the portal in advance of your appointment. This will help to maximize the time we have together for consultation and treatment during your session.
2. Please bring any lab reports or imaging results related to your condition with you to your appointment. These documents will be reviewed and included with our findings in your medical record.
3. Set aside time before and after your appointment. This will help to prevent you from feeling rushed and unable to relax.
4. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. This will ensure your comfort as well as the accessibility of acupuncture points. Gowns and sheets are always available for draping if disrobing is necessary.
5. Avoid brushing your tongue the day of your appointment. The tongue coating can be used for diagnostic purposes.
6. Eat an appropriate meal (neither too big nor too small) about 1-2 hours before your appointment. Otherwise, you may feel uncomfortable or risk feeling lightheaded during treatment.
7. Drink plenty of water. This will enhance the effects of treatment by promoting circulation and detoxification.
8. Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks) and alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol can counteract the effects of acupuncture through their dehydrating effects and influence on the body’s central nervous system.

Please feel to reach out to us via phone or email if you have any questions before your appointment!

(619) 289-7757

info@tara-acupuncture.com