“Really, it doesn’t hurt – it feels good?!”
A colleague answers this question like this (and we thought it too good not to repeat). Jean-Paul Thuot, a Chinese speaking, Canadian acupuncturist, and all around wiseguy about Taiwan says that acupuncture is nowhere near as painful as:
- biting your tongue
- a mosquito bite
- a hypodermic needle injection
- stubbing your toe
- a paper cut
- hitting your funny bone
- a cat’s scratch
- being pinched by your little sister
- your average sore throat
- ‘pins and needles’ from your arm falling asleep
- falling down
- getting a parking ticket
- being slapped
- waxing the hair from ANY part of your body
- an eyelash in your eyeball
- a bee sting
Whatever ache, pain, or syndrome that you’re experiencing, that hurts more than acupuncture ever, ever could. The anticipation is worse for the first time patient than the actual treatment! Most patients’ walk away saying, “Wow, I feel so relaxed. That’s not what I expected at all.” We promise, it’s not as bad as you think…it’s actually, pretty great.
Is acupuncture safe?
Indeed it is, when performed by a qualified professional. The professionals at our clinic have graduated from four + year medical programs, and as in most clinics throughout the Western world, we only use single-use disposable needles to insure the complete safety and well-being our patients.
What are you doing when you take my pulse and look at my tongue?
The tongue and pulse are a lot like a weather gauge to us, they tell us a lot about a person’s digestion, fluid metabolism, levels of toxicity and circulation. We look at unique characteristics and qualities in both that vary greatly from having your pulse rate taken or asked to open your mouth and say “Ahhh” at your Western doctors office.
How often should I come for acupuncture?
For chronic conditions, it is common to come once a week at first. For certain kinds of acute problems such as Parkinson’s disease, Lupus, digestive disorders like Celiac, physical and/or emotional trauma it may be twice a week for a period of time. Once major signs and symptoms have resolved, we may recommend you come in once a month or even just four times a year at the change of the seasons.
How do I prepare for my visit?
Food: First, please do make sure you’ve had something to eat prior to coming to the clinic. It doesn’t have to be right before, just make sure you’ve been well nourished that day.
Clothes: The vast majority of acupuncture points are accessible so long as you are wearing loose fitting comfortable clothes. In some cases we will need to get to your back or lower hips, so your clothing will need to be rearranged for access or a gown/drape will be provided. Your personal comfort and privacy are always respected.
Time: At the first appointment, we do a very extensive health history and intake. You can download our intake form prior to your visit. Please plan to spend about an hour and a half at the clinic. Follow up appointments can range from a half hour to an hour.
Do you work with health insurance plans?
Currently we provide superbill forms that can be submitted for personal reimbursement. We are a paid, time of service provider.
What if I don’t have health insurance?
We have a standard services fee plan, and we do offer sliding scale to those patients who may be facing financial hardship.
What are payment options for sessions?
We accept cash, checks and credit card payments.
Still have questions?
Please don’t hesitate to give us a call, or schedule some time to drop by!
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