How should I prepare before a treatment and what should I do after?

           Before:
                -wear loose fitting clothes if possible or you can bring a change of clothes
                -eat a light meal or snack before each treatment
                -avoid alcohol and caffeine before coming to your treatment
                -please refrain from using perfumes/cologne and make-up during your first visit for proper diagnosis.

          After:
                -drink plenty of water.
                -get adequate rest, avoid extraneous exercises and activities.
                -eat lightly and well balanced meal
                -avoid any substances: alcohol, smoking, etc can alter the effectiveness of the treatment

What does acupuncture feel like and does it hurt?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine, sterile, single use needles. Most times you will feel a slight sensation, not pain. The sensation of the needle is called "De Qi" and patients describe it often as a pulling or grabbing sensation, however, this is different for everyone. Once the point is stimulated, there may be a rush feeling followed by relaxation. Similar to the flow of water when a hose is no longer kinked. 

How many treatments will I need?
Everyone responds differently to treatment, however, in general, basic cases with acute conditions can take 4-6 treatments, while the more challenging and/or chronic cases can take 10+ treatments.

Acupuncture works cumulatively, each treatment works on the one before. Think of it as going to the gym: the first few weeks you go at least 2-3 times a week as the body gets accustomed to the work outs. Once you reach your goal, you continue to work out once a week or every other week for maintenance while continuing your new healthy habits at home.

Acupuncture treatment works the same way. In the beginning we treat often to build on your progress, about twice a week for 1-2 weeks.  As long as your symptoms are improving and the treatment is holding between appointments, then we'll back off to once per week, then every 10 days, and so on until we reach the maintenance point.