What to Expect
During your first consultation or treatment session, up to 20 minutes may be dedicated to discussing the issue you’d like addressed. This conversation ‘might’ include a full medical history to provide a comprehensive view of your health. Alongside asking questions specific to your condition, the practitioner may also use traditional Chinese methods like pulse-taking and tongue diagnosis to further understand your health.
Acupuncture treatment involves inserting fine, sterile needles into carefully chosen points on the body to stimulate energy flow. Typically, these needles are left in place for about 20 minutes, though the number used depends on the individual and the condition.
Each needle is single-use, prepackaged, sterile, and made from stainless steel; they’re safely disposed of after treatment. You may feel sensations like numbness, tingling, warmth, coolness, or an ache in different areas, which are normal responses.
Philip’s approach combines acupuncture with other therapies, including TuiNa massage (a Chinese medical style that may be gentle or firm, depending on your condition), cupping, moxibustion, or simple Chinese herbal formulas. Philip’s approach is gentle, and he adapts techniques to suit your comfort and needs.
Precautions
Please inform your acupuncturist if you may be pregnant, have missed a period, or are trying to conceive. Consulting a registered acupuncturist is recommended. Eat a light meal before treatment and avoid alcohol.
Does It Hurt?
When the acupuncture point is stimulated, you may feel a slight, dull sensation.
What if you’re afraid of needles?
Acupuncture needles are incredibly fine, often not much thicker than a human hair. If you feel uncomfortable with needles, acupressure can be used as an alternative, though results may differ.