What to Expect During Your Acupuncture Session

Natural treatments for back pain

Before you attend your acupuncture appointment, it’s a good idea to prepare for the session. Ideally, you would not engage in stressful activity before or after your treatment.

Another important thing to do is take note of all your current supplements and medications so that you can advise your acupuncturist of them during the assessment stage of the treatment. This is because there are certain herbs and drugs that may affect your treatment.

You’ll also want to eat an appropriate amount before your treatment as this will help you feel comfortable and avoid the risk of feeling lightheaded during your appointment. Try to avoid consuming caffeine at least two hours before your acupuncture treatment as coffee is a stimulant, and it heightens your fight-or-flight response.

Lastly, wear loose-fitting or comfortable clothes as this will make it easier for the practitioner to access the acupuncture point locations.

Things to expect during your acupuncture session

During your first session, you can expect that your acupuncturist will conduct a thorough assessment of your general health, including the current medications you take. Each treatment is unique for each individual, so the practitioner will need to gather all the information they need in order to facilitate the most effective treatment for you.

This investigative process will enable the acupuncturist to know your past treatments, medical history, diet, sleeping patterns, emotional health, and your current symptoms.

All these evaluations will aid the practitioner in developing a unique treatment that will help boost your current energy and ease any pain. In most cases, thin and sterile needles will be inserted into specific locations, such as your hand, forehead, or other places that can easily be accessed without requiring you to remove your clothing. However, if you are required to remove your clothes, you will be provided with a towel or gown so you can properly cover yourself.

You can expect that the first treatment will be slightly longer at around 1 hour. Subsequent treatments will be shorter, around 45 minutes. Your practitioner may also recommend a diet for you at appropriate times throughout the treatment process.

Are there any side effects?

You may feel a little discomfort when the needles are inserted into your skin, but most of the time the insertion is virtually painless. The number of needles needed will vary depending on the condition and person’s symptoms, but generally will require between five to 20 needles.

Overall, acupuncture treatment is safe and effective if handled by a qualified and experienced acupuncturist like Belinda Tran. Click here to find out if you are eligible for a treatment.

What to Expect During Your Acupuncture Session