~Turtle Dragon~
What to Expect
What will my acupuncturist do?
During the initialexam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive evaluation of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment. Visits with your acupuncturist may last from 30 to 90 minutes.
Why do they want to feel my pulse?
There are 12 pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for 27 individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.
Why do they want to look at my tongue?
The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist willlook at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.
How many treatments will I need?
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 your problem and the quality and quantity of your Qi. An acupuncturist may suggest one or two treatments per week, monthly visits for health maintenance or seasonal "tune ups".
What should I expect during treatment?
Where the acupuncturist needle has been inserted, you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or dull ache. Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle. This is called the "Qi sensation". All these reactions are good and a sign that the treatment is working. After treatment, you may feel energized or may experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.
How should I prepare?
- Come with any questions you have- we're here to help you.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
- Don't eat large meals just before or after your visit.
- Refrain from overexertion, working out, drugs or alcohol for up to 6 hours after the visit.
- Avoid stressful situations. make time to relax, and be sure to get plenty of rest.
- Between visits, take notes of any changes that may have occurred, such as the alleviation of pain, pain moving to other areas , or changes in the frequency and type of problems.
Do the needles hurt?
The sensation caused by an acupuncture needle varies. Some people feel a little pain as the needles are inserted, but most people feel no pain at all. The needles are tiny, just a little larger than a cat's whisker or a human hair.
How deep do they go?
The depth of the insertion varies. For example, your acupuncturist will use a needling technique that is different in fleshier areas, such as your buttocks. Typically, needles are inserted at depths ranging from 1/8" to 1 1/2".
Call me: (210) 738-9200 ... and we'll talk about your healing.
E-mail: ernieakers1@yahoo.com
Come over: 4823 Fredericksburg Rd., San Antonio, Tx. 78229 ...and we'll get started.