The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes.

Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors: your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem and the quality and quantity of your body’s own resources. An acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week, or monthly visits for health maintenance and seasonal “tune ups”.

Yes. In some instances children actually respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure.

Herbs are a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. Many believe that Chinese herbs can treat on a much deeper level than acupuncture. Herbs are used to strengthen, build and support the body or to clear it of excess problems like a cold, fever or acute pain. Your practitioner may suggest starting with herbs and then adding acupuncture to your treatment in the future. This is suggested to build up your internal strength so you can receive the full benefits acupuncture has to offer. The word “herb” can be confusing to someone new to Chinese Medicine. Chinese herbs are made of up not only plant material, but also common food, mineral and animal material as well.

The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and channels. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue. The differences in these characteristics of the tongue aid the practitioner in assessing the state of health and balance in the body.

There are twelve pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific channel and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for twenty-seven individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.