Before beginning treatment, I will conduct a thorough interview and evaluation to determine an appropriate strategy based on your symptoms and history.
I will make sure you're comfortable and relaxed before I insert any acupuncture needles. These are very thin (about the size of a human hair), sterile and disposable, and the treatment is usually painless. It is normal, however, and even desirable, to experience a dull ache, tingling or warm sensation once the needles have been inserted.
The needles are usually left in for about 30 minutes, and most people become very relaxed or even fall asleep during the treatment. Patients tend to feel refreshed, centered and calm afterward. An initial treatment lasts 90 minutes, and follow-ups are one hour. For more details about what to expect after acupuncture, please read New Patient Information on the left of this page.
If you're apprehensive about what acupuncture may feel like, please let me know and I'll address your concerns beforehand. I can suggest relaxing breathing techniques, massage the points first and/or use extra thin needles. However, in my experience, the great majority of people who are nervous about getting acupuncture relax immediately after one or two needles are inserted, when they realize how very mild and even pleasant the sensation is.
