The Initial Session is the most important and usually the longest. At this time we go over an extensive health history. We include aspects like sleep, diet, pain, bowel movements, past injuries, and women’s health. Some questions asked can be personal. However, they are crucial in connecting and integrating all the signs and symptoms. This helps to find the best diagnosis. As in therapy, a breach in patient confidentiality is against protocol and can result in legal action. All HIPAA rules and guidelines are strictly followed.
Once the history has been taken, your tongue will be examined. Then you will relax on the treatment table. This allows us to take your pulse. Tongue and pulse are another important tool in determining a proper diagnosis in Chinese Medicine. They give an impression on how your internal energy system is working. Specific areas on the tongue correlate to one of 12 channel systems. Each position of the pointer, middle, and ring fingers on the radial pulse also corresponds to one of these systems. The first reading is important because it will give the practitioner a foundation for variations, if any, during your follow up visits. When tongue and pulse are complete, we will discuss your chief complaint. This is only if it hasn’t been disclosed in your patient history. All first time patients receive light massage. This allows time to assess your skin temperature and texture. We can also gauge the condition and strength of your muscles and joints. This assessment provides a better picture of your physical health. Once all the information is obtained a TCM diagnosis will be given and additional therapy will begin!
Side Effects: There are virtually no side effects from receiving acupuncture. The most common side effects reported are some light headedness and syncope. Patients may also experience light bleeding in areas closer to bone. Bruising usually occurs in those who use blood thinners or have blood disorders.
Needle Sensation: Typically acupuncture is painless. It is common to feel a slight electric sensation at the time of insertion. But the sensation varies by needle location as well as the Practitioner’s technique.
Djedi Health 