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Your First Visit
To prepare for your visit, wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. Ensure that you have eaten, but not heavily, and that you are feeling as rested as possible.
Some of the most important acupuncture points are located below the knees and below the elbows, so easy access to these areas is essential. Other acupuncture points reside on the main trunk of the body (front and back) so access to these areas may also be required. If this is the case I will ensure that your comfort and dignity is maintained at all times.
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At your first appointment, I ask many questions in order to do a thorough evaluation of your health, lifestyle and diet. All the questions asked are essential for a proper diagnosis. I listen carefully to your concerns and I examine your tongue and pulse. A Traditional Chinese Diagnosis is made and the most appropriate acupuncture points for your condition are chosen – this constitutes a tailor made prescription for your condition. 
I then treat you with Acupuncture. Acupuncture feels like a small pinch as the needles are inserted, followed by a feeling of pressure, warmth, coolness, tingling, heaviness, or numbness around the point. This sensation is called the Qi sensation, and it means your body is responding to the treatment. The sensation may differ from person to person or indeed from one treatment to another.
Once the needles are in, you rest quietly for 30 minutes to an hour. People often fall asleep during treatment. 
If appropriate, we may discuss other treatment options such as Chinese Herbal Medicine. I generally prescribe herbal powders, which are quick and easy to take.