What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?
Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will feel like hypodermic injections at the doctor’s office. They won't. Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that you will hardly feel when I insert them. When I gently stimulate the needles they may produce a unique sensation that Oriental medicine calls de qi. Patients often describe de qi as a heavy, achy pressure, or spreading, traveling feeling. You may also feel an "electrical" sensation moving down the meridian pathways, though this is less common. Most patients find these acupuncture sensations deeply satisfying and leave the treatment feeling relaxed both mentally and physically.
Acupuncture treatment creates deep relaxation
in both mind and body.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more then one treatment is necessary. For acute conditions you can expect to have 10 to 15 treatments, but you will usually begin to feel relief after just the first few. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond, depending on the type, severity, and duration of the condition. Preventative treatments and treatments for general well-being may also be scheduled on an as-needed basis.
Before and After My Acupuncture Visit
Please fill out the digital forms sent to your email address when you scheduled your appointment. The link can be found in your confirmation email.
Before My Visit:
- Have a light meal or snack at least 30-90 minutes before each treatment. Heavy meals may cause nausea, and acupuncture on an empty stomach may cause dizziness.
- Wear loose clothing to allow the acupuncturist access to the problem area. Usually if you can easily pull your clothing up to knees and elbows comfortably you should be fine. Blankets are always available if needed.
- Do not drink alcohol for at least 12 hours before each treatment.
After My Visit:
- Eat lightly for the rest of the day.
- Drink plenty of water and get adequate rest.
- Take note of any changes in the way you feel so that you can report them to your acupuncturist on your next visit.
- Call, text, or e-mail with any questions, comments or concerns.
How Long Will I be in Counseling?
Counseling, psychotherapy, is individualized to each person. Treatment length is dictated by diagnosis and personal need. Patients participate in an intake assessment during the first meeting to help better understand any potential diagnosis and course of treatment. At the end of the intake assessment the clinician will recommend a length of treatment based on current symptoms. Typical treatment can range from 5-20 individual sessions.
Can I Receive Acupuncture and Counseling Concurrently?
Ohio counseling law is very directive. Clinicians are prohibited from touching patients physically. There are very sound reasons for this, primarily for the safety of patients. Because of this, counseling clients will not be appropriate for acupuncture services. Referrals can be given to other acupuncturists or psychotherapists when needed.
