What should I expect on my first visit?
At your first visit you will fill out a brief intake form, if possible come a couple minutes early. Following this you will consult with your therapist and go over your history, concerns, any questions you may have and your goals for the visit.
Will I have to undress?
After a brief consultation with with your therapist, they will leave the room allowing you to undress and get comfortable on the table, under the top sheet. The therapist will return after you are situated. Other than the part of your body that is being worked on, you will remained draped at all times during the session.
Will a lubricant be used?
A light oil or cream will be used during your massage to allow your muscles to be worked without excessive friction. The oils or creams have been chosen by the therapist because they are hypo-allergenic, unscented, have a non-greasy finish, and do not contain alcohol, minerals, or nut oils.
What should I expect during the massage?
During your session you should simply relax. Some people relax to the point of falling asleep while others remain awake and like to chat with their therapist. If your therapist needs help lifting your arm, or turning your head, they will let you know. Your therapist will check in to see if you are comfortable with the pressure being used.
What should I expect after the massage?
Directly after a massage some people feel increased energy but most people feel relaxed, sleepy, or even a bit dizzy. People sometimes feel soreness for a day or two, but this is normal. It is important to drink a lot of water, after your massage, in order to flush out the toxins that were released during your treatment.
How does acupuncture work?
In Chinese medical theory, acupuncture works by balancing the body’s Qi. If Qi gets blocked, it shows up as an imbalance or illness and acupuncture can be used to fix the imbalance. In Western medical theory, acupuncture appears to work by stimulating parts of the brain. It also stimulates the body to release natural biomolecules such as neurotransmitters, vasodilators, and hormones.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. All the needles are sterilized, individually wrapped, and disposed of after each treatment.
Do acupuncture needles hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very small and solid, so they gently separate the skin unlike hypodermic needles which are serrated. The needle sensation varies with individuals, but often people feel a sensation of heat, or movement, within their body as the needles regulate the energy flow.
What should I expect on my first visit?
Your first visit will be one hour and will include both diagnosis and treatment. We will evaluate your health by using variety of diagnostic systems like palpating muscles and joints to determine imbalances within the body and discuss your treatment goals. Treatment is then based on the findings and subsequently evolves as symptoms begin to improve.
How often will I need to come in for treatment?
Acupuncture, like physical therapy, is most effective when performed at regular intervals. The exact duration of treatment depends on what is being treated, your health entering into treatment, and your ability to make any necessary changes in lifestyle and diet.
Are Chinese herbal medicines safe?
Chinese Herbal medicines are extremely safe and well tolerated. We only use herbal products from American manufacturers who's manufacturing facilities are held to the same cleanliness standards as pharmaceutical manufacturers. All the herbal medicines are tested numerous times for potency, purity and for any contaminants.