If you’ve never been to an acupuncture session before, it’s only natural that you might wonder what to expect during your first appointment. An acupuncturist at Next Level Medical Centers will begin by asking you a series of questions regarding your overall health status and if you have any areas of pain that need to be worked on. They may also do a quick physical examination that includes checking your pulse rate, as well as the color and coating of your tongue.
This assessment will be the basis on which your acupuncturist carries out a treatment plan. The acupuncture session will then begin by lying down on a treatment table, either face up or down. Thin needles are then inserted into various acupressure points to stimulate the flow of energy and can be in place for up to 30 minutes. Most patients report feeling no to very little discomfort—and only do so if they move around during treatment. If necessary, heat therapy, massage, topical herbal medicines, and cupping may also be recommended as accompanying procedures.
