Jul 08 2005
What should I expect from my first treatment?
During your first visit, the practitioner may ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behaviour. An in-depth assessment is important to gain an overall picture of your health and specific condition. By asking a range of questions such as diet and eating patterns, digestion, sleeping patterns, location and nature of pain etc, a TCM practitioner can decipher the underlying cause of the problem, and decide on appropriate treatment.
It is important to inform your acupuncturist of any medications you are taking, as well as past accidents and injuries that may be of importance.
The practitioner will also take your pulse and may ask to look at your tongue. In some cases the practitioner will palpate areas of your abdomen and gauge the sensitivity to pressure of points known as alarm points. They may also check the relative heat & cold of different areas of the torso.
The practitioner will then insert the needles and commonly leave them in place for about 20 minutes.
Besides needling, the practitioner may use other techniques including -
Moxibustion - the acupuncture point is warmed using moxa (Artemisia vulgaris). This will be done with either a lighted moxa roll above the point, with loose moxa wrapped around the head of the needle or by applying a cone of moxa to the point.
Cupping - a vacuum is created in a cup which is applied to specific areas, most often on the back, causing light suction and relieving pain as well as treating conditions.
Chinese herbs - herbs may be prescribed to reinforce the acupuncture treatment. The herbs will be dispensed as freeze dried granules, pills or raw herbs.
