What can I expect on my first visit?

Traditional Oriental Medicine as practiced here, addresses the core energetic imbalances interwoven in our bodies, emotions, belief systems and habits which predispose us  to recurrent health problems and dis-ease. We are trained and competent in a wide variety of therapeutic methods including acupuncture, Chinese herbs, nutrition and self-care education, therapeutic massage, counseling and stress reduction training.

Your first visit will last approximately 1.5 hours and involves a thorough diagnostic examination and evaluation. The initial visit will  include an acupuncture treatment, dietary and nutritional counseling and a Chinese herbal prescription if appropriate. Follow-up visits generally last 1 hour.

Chinese Medicine utilizes four methods of diagnosis: looking (observing the face, body, and tongue), hearing (listening to sound and pitch of the voice, cough, breathing), asking (asking questions regarding your medical history, present symptoms, stress levels, previous therapies, nutritional status etc.) and feeling(pulse diagnosis, palpation of points).

During your visit, you will be asked a variety of questions regarding your specific complaint and general health, some of which may seem unrelated to your main concern. With information gained from seeing the whole “pattern of  disharmony” rather than just focusing on individual symptoms, a TCM doctor can offer a more informed holistic diagnosis and treatment.

How should I prepare for my acupuncture treatment?

Please try to eat a light meal or snack before coming for an acupuncture treatment.  Wear loose fitting clothes. Massage and acupuncture are often applied to the back,  so you may be asked to partially disrobe.  The treatment rooms are quiet and warm with relaxing background music.
It’s best to refrain from rigorous exercise for at least two hours before and after treatment and to not schedule other health treatments on the same day.

How many treatments will I need?

For acute or mild conditions, like the common cold, a sprained muscle or a headache, only a few sessions are normally required to resolve the problem. Often one is sufficient—acupuncture can do miracles for relieving acute pain. However for chronic or severe conditions, a series of ten or more treatments will most likely be required.  The general rule is one month of weekly or biweekly treatment for every year the condition has been present.

The healing response depends on the condition of your body. If your body is deficient of energy and nutrients or if the energy pathways are very blocked, it takes longer to heal. Our goal is not just to relieve symptoms but to guide your body back to harmony and balance so that you remain well.  Getting to that point takes time and sometimes patience.

Even when you are feeling healthy, periodic tune-up treatments at the change-of-season are beneficial to adapt to changing climatic conditions and avoid seasonal illnesses like allergies and the flu.

Is acupuncture safe? Are there any side effects of acupuncture?

Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a Licensed Acupuncturist. There is no danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile and used once, then discarded. The few side-effects which occasionally occur are all transitory and mild. The most common side effects that can occur are from the needle insertion, such as bruising or temporary local discomfort. There is little or no danger of damaging any internal structure because the needles used are hair-thin and  are inserted shallowly.

Do the needles hurt?

The sensation caused by an acupuncture needle varies from person to person. The sensation can also vary depending on the area of the body that is being stimulated and from treatment to treatment; a variety of factors are involved in the experience. Some people do not feel the needle being inserted at all. Some people feel a momentary twinge as the needle is inserted, but the pain quickly subsides. The needles are very thin, just a little larger than a human hair.

Once the acupuncture needle is inserted, you may feel a variety of sensations from a vague heaviness, numbness, tingling, or a dull ache. Sometimes people feel a sensation of energy moving at a distance from the needle. All of these sensations are good and a sign that the treatment is working. The needles are usually left in place for 20-30 minutes while you relax and listen to soothing music. Most people feel very relaxed and many fall asleep during the treatment. After an acupuncture treatment most people feel relaxed, revitalized and experience a sense of wellness.

What if I am sensitive to needles?

If you are sensitive to needles, we can work with you in other ways to restore balance and health. Non-needle modalities include acupressure, moxibustion, gua sha, cupping, Chinese herbal medicine, nutritional counseling and therapeutic exercise. Acupuncture points can be stimulated in more than one way: lasar , heat, physical pressure (shiatsu, tuina, scraping, tapping, etc), and various types of electrical devices.

Are Chinese herbs safe?

In general, Chinese herbs are safe when recommended by a properly trained practitioner who uses products from reputable herbal companies. In the state of Oregon, licensed acupuncturists (LAc) are required to complete herbal training that includes herb safety. Because herbs can interact with other herbs/supplements and Western pharmaceuticals, it is important that you tell your acupuncturist all drugs and supplements you are currently taking. In addition, some people can experience allergies to certain herbs. If you experience any unpleasant side effects when taking Chinese herbs, stop taking the herbs immediately and call your practitioner.

In order to ensure the safety of our patients, we only prescribe herbs from reputable  US -based companies that guarantee quality. These companies test all of their herbs to be free of contaminants, heavy metals, preservatives, and pesticides.