Things You Should Know Before Your First Acupuncture Appointment

By Sandra M.

1. Benefits of Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Acupuncture can treat an array of concerns: the immune system, digestive issues, chronic illness, fertility, and stress are just to name a few. It can also be used as a preventative treatment or pain management.

2. Things to Consider Before Arriving for Your Appointment

It is important to eat before you come in. Consuming a full meal is not required, a small snack is fine. Getting a treatment on an empty stomach can cause dizziness or fainting. One of our diagnostic tools is the tongue. It is important that you not brush your tongue the morning before your treatment so we can see the full picture.
A few days before you come in, keep an eye on your sleep, emotions, digestion, bowel movements, pain, discomfort, cravings and/or menstruation. The more details you have, the better we can help.

3. During the Appointment

There are many acupoints all over the body. Depending on the treatment, you will likely be asked to change into a gown. You will be asked to show your tongue, your pulse will be checked, and certain areas of your body may be examined in regard to your chief complaint. Acupuncturists do more than just acupuncture. We use other modalities like cupping and gua sha.

4. Things to Keep in Mind

We treat the body as a whole. This means, there is likely a deeper cause of many symptoms. In order to obtain the best results with Chinese medicine you may be given a herbal formula, lifestyle or diet suggestions and recommendations on when and how often to return.

Looking for more information about acupuncture?
Book a session at our intern clinic https://citcm.janeapp.com/ or call us at 403.520.5258