Congratulations. By Choosing acupuncture, you've taken a great step toward a more balanced, healthy lifestyle. The ancient practices of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have helped billions of people regain and maintain their health.

Acupuncture and TCM take a holistic, or whole-body approach to health. This means your practitioner will take into account your whole self, not just your symptoms, in order to get to the root of your health concerns. You will work together to find out how factors like your lifestyle and your emotional and mental well-bing may be affecting your health.

Getting the chance to really discuss your health concerns with your care provider - and having your provider really listen - maybe new to you. Think of it as your opportunity to form a partnership for better health. The more you take part in your healing process, the more successful it will be.

Initial visits generally last from 30 to 90 minutes. Your acupuncturist will take a detailed health history and physical exam, and will provide you with your unique treatment plan.

During your first exam, your acupuncturist will spend time getting to know you and your health concerns. You may be asked a wide range of questions about your symptoms, eating, exercise, sleep habits, and emotional states -- anything that may offer insight into your health.

Your practitioner will also employ diagnostic tools that are unique to acupuncture and TCM such as tongue and pulse diagnosis.

Also, as a new patient, you may download Patient Information Form, fill it out, and bring it with you at first visit. You may arrive 10 minutes earlier to finish your paper work for your first visit.

Once your acupuncturist has gathered enough information, you will receive a comprehensive diagnosis and a treatment plan that will explain:
- Your underlying imbalances
- Your time-line of care
- What types of treatment you will receive

True healing takes time and dedication. Depending on your current health and symptoms, you could feel better right away, or you may need treatments, for weeks, months, or years to achieve the results you want. In the plan, your acupuncturist will give you an idea of what to expect. With a little patience and an open mind, you will be on your way to health and vitality by following the plan.

For the best treatment results, keep a few things in mind: - Please show up on time
- Don't eat a large meal before your visit
- Wear loose, comfortable clothes
- Be sure to discuss any questions or concerns with your acupuncturist
- Refrain from overexertion, drugs or alcohol for at least six hours after treatment
- Follow your treatment plan between visits
- Keep all your appointments, as each visit builds upon the previous ones.

To treat any Qi imbalances, fine, sterile needles will be inserted at specific points along the meridian pathways. Your acupuncturist will concentrate on acupuncture points related to specific organs, based on your unique issues and symptoms.

Your acupuncturist may include other related therapies in your treatment plan, such as cupping, Gwa Sha or moxibustion. Herbal remedies are another important aspect of acupuncture and TCM, and it is important to understand and follow your practitioner's directions in order to get the most benefit from these treatments.

Your actions are a key component of your treatment plan. Focusing on your health and committing to a healthy lifestyle are the best steps you ca take for your well-bing. Together, you and your acupuncturist can heal your imbalances and help you achieve harmony and balance.

Even after your symptoms are resolved, acupuncture can assist you in maintaining your health, and possibly prevent future imbalances. The more you incorporate acupuncture and TCM into your life, the more you will learn to nurture your body, mind and spirit.