First Visit Questions
First Visit Questions
What can I expect at first visit?
Treat the root cause, not just symptom.
All your pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, emotion, sleep quality indicate fundamental physical, physiological imbalance. At your first visit, a full health history will be taken. Diagnosis will begin with questions regarding your health and lifestyle and any other information that is pertinent. Dr. Arken will then conduct a TCM exam. All this information is used to form a diagnosis based on the theories and philosophies of Traditional Chinese Medicine. When the needle is inserted, you may feel numbness or tingling. Some say that they feel energy (also known as Qi氣) spread from the point of insertion. All of these are signs that the treatment is working.
How long the treatment time is?
We treat patients in an open but individual room, where multiple 2-3 patients are there simultaneously, each at a different stage of their appointment. For the first 15 minutes or so of your appointment, your acupuncturist will go over your needs one-on-one, and give treatment. You will then rest on treatment and allow the needles to do their work for 30 minutes, for a total appointment time of 30 to 45 minutes.
Can I address more than one health issue at a time with acupuncture?
Absolutely. Acupuncture and TCM modalities acts like a re-set button for the entire body. Often, patients who come in for one issue will notice an improvement in something that seems unrelated. That’s because TCM and treatment are holistic system and everything is connected.
How should I prepare before visit?
Treatments take place in a peaceful, relaxing healing space. You will be treated in a fully sanitized comfortable treatment table or reclining chair.
Wear loose and comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points. It’s not necessary to undress, just roll up your pants to the knee and sleeves to the elbow.
Keep your routine diet. Do not come after and especially large meal, nor should you come in hungry.
Do not overexert yourself after the treatment or use stimulant or alcohol up to 8 hours after the treatment.
Make note of any changes that occur in your body between visits. Alleviation of pain or movement of pain to another area should be noted. Any information will assist Practitioner.
Can I combine Acupuncture with Physical Therapy, Chiropractic, or other healing modalities?
Yes! One of the great things about acupuncture is that you can combine acupuncture with other therapies. Very few things make it less effective, and it doesn't interfere with anything else. It's one of the reasons that so many doctors and therapists refer their patients to acupuncture.
How many sessions do I need?
Treatment result depend on individual case, people feel great relief from one treatment while others find a more gradual improvement with acupuncture. The number and frequency of treatments will be discussed with you at your initial visit. In general, acute conditions tend to be quicker to respond while chronic conditions can take longer.
Clinic & Cancellation Policies
Our clinic works because our patients value the resource we offer. Please make yourself aware of the following policies so you can participate in keeping this clinic an affordable and cooperative resource.
In respect for our intention to offer affordable health care, we ask for a 24-hour advance notice to cancel or reschedule appointments. Failure to cancel within this timeframe will result in a $40 fee. This includes missed appointments without notice.
To maintain a calm and therapeutic atmosphere, we ask that all patients turn off or silence their phones before entering the clinic.
Please bring all personal belongings with you into the treatment room.
The soothing ambiance in the community space is created by the patients as they relax together. This kind of collective stillness is a rare and precious thing in our busy world. Please help us to maintain this by speaking in whispers and refraining from socializing while in the room.
Part of our clinic’s success lies in patients learning “the routine” and taking responsibility for appointments. Scheduling and making payments happens online or at the front desk before each session – that way, you can simply relax and enjoy your treatment.
Questions about Herbs
How do herbs work?
Many of the individual herbs listed in the Materia Medica, the traditional Chinese compendium of herbs, have undergone scientific analysis. However, it is the combination of multiple herbs into a formula that creates the most powerful therapeutic effects. Ancient texts classify each herb by its properties, including the channels it influences, the organs it affects, as well as its taste, temperature, and its relevance to specific diseases or symptoms. A trained practitioner will assess your imbalance and prescribe the appropriate blend of herbs tailored to your condition.
Why can't I just buy them at the pharmacy?
Many Chinese herbs are now readily available in health food stores and online, it is crucial to consult a certified specialist, as each person’s TCM symptoms are unique and require a specific blend of herbs. Additionally, it’s essential to purchase your herbs from a trustworthy source to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How do I know the herbs you prescribe are safe?
We source only from suppliers that uphold the highest standards of quality and purity. All herbs are rigorously tested to ensure they are free from pesticides, fungi, and heavy metals, and they are GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certified. The herbs are available in various forms, including pills, tinctures, and granules that can be dissolved in water. Herbs are prescribed on an individual basis, ensuring you receive the appropriate form and combination tailored to your needs.
Some individuals may have allergies to certain herbs, which is why it is essential to consult a qualified herbalist. For example, people allergic to plants in the ragweed family may have reactions to herbs like chamomile or chrysanthemum, which belong to the same family. A trained herbalist would be aware of such potential sensitivities.
What do herbs taste like?
Herbs come in a range of flavors, from sweet to bitter, with some being relatively mild in taste. Many patients develop a strong craving for their specific herbal formula, as their bodies feel better when they take it. Others prefer to take herbs in pill form to avoid the taste altogether.
What if I'm taking prescription medications? Will the herbs interfere with them?
Always consult a qualified healthcare provider, such as a licensed physician or certified herbalist, before starting any new herbal regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have existing medical conditions, or are taking prescription medications.
Herbal supplements may interact with medications or have side effects, and individual responses may vary. The statements regarding herbal products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and these products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Use herbal supplements responsibly and discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine are considered complementary medicine at US, meaning they are used alongside, not in place of, conventional medical care. It's crucial to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before using any complementary therapies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual needs and health conditions.
Herbs & Teas Suppliers