Seattle Wellness Group: Acupuncture and What can I expect during my Treatment?

Most new acupuncture patients at Seattle Wellness Group have never received Acupuncture or Chinese Medicine treatments. Here are a list of things you can do to prepare for and what to expect during your first treatment.

Before Acupuncture Treatments: 
It is important not to come into Acupuncture treatments on an empty stomach. We suggest every patient come in with something in their stomach at last 4 hours prior to treatments. Please come in or bring a change of loose, comfortable clothes, which can easily roll up to your knees and elbows.
How Long are Acupuncture Appointments? 
First time acupuncture treatments are set for an hour and a half. Following the first visit, returning appointments are an hour. Returning patients enjoy starting their mornings, utilizing their lunch breaks, or coming in after work!
During First time Acupuncture Treatments: 
Longer intakes and examination are required for first time treatments. In addition to inquiry, our acupuncturists will check your pulse, tongue, and palpate in order to aid diagnosis and treatment strategy.
What happens During a treatment? 
After intake and monthly re-examinations, treatment involves a combination of acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, reiki, and additional bodywork. Chinese medicine is a combination of acupuncture, dietary recommendations, herbal medicine, breathing exercises and lifestyle advice depending on each person's individual constitution.
Usually, our acupuncturist prefers to do face up and face down treatments. Half of the treatment time will be used face up and half of the treatment will be face down. Our treatments are administered in a closed room for your comfort. Most patients use the needle time to meditate or take a quick nap.
How does the needle feel? 
Needle sensations create a dull, achy, radiating, heavy, or warm sensation. Our acupuncturist ONLY uses sterile, single use needles before disposing them in the bio-hazard containers.
After Treatment: 
The acupuncture points can create soreness, slight swelling, and/or bruising. These are virtually the only side effects of acupuncture.

Since most patients are new to acupuncture and everyone will be new to our treatment with acupuncturist, Alexander makes sure to frequently check in for your comfort. If you have any questions about treatment, schedule a consultation or appointment here!