Acupuncture Primers: What To Do *Before* Your First Treatment
Going to get acupuncture for the first time is not like dropping in to get your nails done at the salon last minute. There are a few recommendations I suggest to all my clients in order for them to get the MOST out of their experience (and get their money’s worth!)
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① Decide what your goals are
This may be an obvious piece of advice for some…but you would be surprised how many people come in to get acupuncture, lay on the table, and ramble a million things they want to work on. While we can definitely address multiple things at once, it helps both you AND I to have a clear list of symptoms or goals that are laid out in order of importance. That way, time is not wasted trying to figure out what you want or expect from our sessions together. What symptom or complaint stands out the MOST to you? Clear communication, reasonable expectations, and a plan of action we can both agree on is imperative to get the results that you desire. Believe me!
② Fill out your paperwork online
Help me save the planet and use less paper! I have specially designed my new patient intake forms to be filled out easily online. Once you have booked your new appointment, you will receive an email inviting you to login to your patient portal where your new patient paperwork and consent forms are waiting to be completed and submitted!
BTW - From your patient portal, you can do all kinds of fun stuff like book new appointments, change an existing appointment, pay your bill, upload documents, link your family member’s account, etc.
③ Hydrate - avoid alcohol & caffeine
Acupuncture is a form of energy medicine that releases stagnation by moving the blood, lymph, and body fluids throughout the body. It helps the tissues function optimally by releasing toxins. Being sufficiently hydrated before and after treatment helps to flush these toxins out. I recommend avoiding caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks) for at least a couple of hours before your treatment. Caffeine is a nervous system stimulant, which can directly counteract the effects of acupuncture. Caffeine and alcohol are also diuretics that have a dehydrating effect, so it is a good idea to avoid these before & directly after acupuncture.
④ Eat a nourishing meal
Acupuncture can sometimes stimulate your appetite. You might be feeling a bit hungry during your session so it is recommended to enjoy a light snack or meal before you go to your appointment. Some folks may even feel a little lightheaded or dizzy after their treatment if they arrived on an empty stomach.
A snack can help keep your hunger down and lightheadedness at bay, but be careful of what you eat – you don’t want to upset your stomach during or after your appointment with heavy, greasy foods. Remember, acupuncture is a time to relax and heal.
⑤ Don’t brush your tongue
This may sound strange, but the coating of your tongue can be very telling! The color, coating, and texture of your tongue can help with your acupuncturist’s diagnosis.
Curious why? Read What Happens in the First Acupuncture Sesh?
It is recommended that you do not brush your tongue for 24 hours before your appointment.
