Welcome to the Eastern Medicine & Acupuncture Center! Below is a description of what you can expect to experience during and after your appointment, as well as some suggestions to maximize the effectiveness of your treatment.
The Visit
- As a new patient, your first appointment will take approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
- In a treatment room, I will review the information you have provided on the new patient forms and ask questions about your health and concerns or problems you may be experiencing. These questions and your answers allow me to arrive at your traditional Chinese medical diagnosis & patterns upon which I will base your treatment.
- The diagnosis will also include examining your tongue and feeling your pulse in both wrists, among other common diagnostic methods. Please do not brush your tongue while brushing your teeth a day or two before your visit.
- Although acupuncture and herbs may be used with other forms of treatment, if you are taking any medication or herbs, please make sure to let me know.
- After the initial diagnosis, you will be asked to remove your socks and shoes and lie down. For an acupuncture treatment, after swabbing the point sites with alcohol, I will insert very thin, sterile, single use disposable needles. Although some points are more sensitive than others, usually you will feel little or no sensation or discomfort. An infrared heat lamp may be used to keep you warm during your treatment. Please wear comfortable clothes.
- Acupuncture needles may be left in for 15 – 35 minutes. During this time, I will remain with you or check on you regularly. Most people find the treatment very relaxing and many meditate or sleep. Should you experience any discomfort, be sure to tell me right away and I will make adjustments. It is also generally preferable if you do not come to your appointment on an empty or a full stomach.
- In traditional Chinese medicine, herbs are an essential part of the treatment and I may ask if you are interested in receiving herbs.
- At the end of your rest, acupuncture needles will be removed. I will propose a continued treatment plan, which may include additional acupuncture treatments, herbal remedies, and dietary and exercise recommendations. If an herbal prescription is recommended you will receive instructions on how to prepare and take the herbs. It is highly recommended that you follow the treatment plan to maximize your results.
- Please address any remaining questions or concerns you may have for me prior to the end of your appointment.
After the Visit
- Plan to relax and rest after your treatment as your body is still experiencing a physiological rebalancing. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, drugs, and strenuous exercises.
- Some people feel a little light headed after receiving an acupuncture treatment. If this is the case, please sit for a while in the waiting room. In a few minutes you will feel relaxed and clear headed.
- Herbal prescriptions are intended only for the person for whom they are prescribed. Do not give herbal formulas to anyone else.
- Very rarely, following an acupuncture treatment, you may feel that your symptoms may become worse. This is often a sign that previously dormant conditions are being awakened so that healing may occur. This should pass quickly. If you have any questions or concerns at any time, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information – Dr. Sophia Pan