Empowering You Through Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a therapeutic practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and promote well-being. Here’s what you can expect from acupuncture, including the preparation, the session itself, and aftercare:
Before the Session
1. Initial Consultation:
Health History: Your acupuncturist will ask about your medical history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and overall health to create a personalized treatment plan.
Physical Examination: They may examine your tongue, pulse, and possibly palpate certain areas of your body to assess your health.
2. Preparing for the Session:
Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be easily rolled up to access various parts of your body.
Avoid Heavy Meals: Don’t eat a large meal right before your session, but don’t go in on an empty stomach either.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before and after your session.
During the Session
1. Setting the Environment:
Calm Atmosphere: Acupuncture is typically performed in a relaxing environment, with soft music to help you relax or you can ask to have no music at all.
2. Needle Insertion:
Minimal Discomfort: The needles used in acupuncture are very thin, much thinner than hypodermic needles. Most people feel little to no pain as the needles are inserted. You might feel a slight pinch or a tingling sensation.
Number of Needles: The number of needles used can vary, typically ranging from a few to over a dozen. ( Facial Enhance Acupuncture uses more needles per session).
Depth and Duration: Needles are inserted to varying depths, they are usually left in place for 15 to 30 minutes.
3. Sensations During Treatment:
Qi Sensation: You might experience a sensation known as “Deqi,” which can feel like a dull ache, pressure, warmth, or tingling around the needle site. This is a positive indication that the treatment is effective.
Relaxation: Many people feel deeply relaxed during and after the session, sometimes even falling asleep.
After the Session
1. Immediate Effects:
Relaxation: You may feel very relaxed and possibly a bit lightheaded or drowsy. Take your time getting up from the treatment table.
Initial Improvement: Some people experience immediate relief from symptoms, while for others, it may take a few sessions to notice significant changes.
2. Post-Treatment Care:
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins released during the treatment.
Rest: Try to relax and avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day.
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These substances can counteract the relaxing effects of acupuncture.
3. Follow-Up:
Multiple Sessions: Depending on your condition, your acupuncturist may recommend a series of treatments. Chronic conditions often require more sessions for lasting results.
Monitoring Progress: Keep track of your symptoms and any changes you notice, and discuss them with your acupuncturist during follow-up appointments.