frequently asked questions
There is little sensation associated with the insertion of an acupuncture needle. Acupuncture needles are much finer than those used for injections and blood tests. In fact, they are 25 to 50 times thinner than hypodermic needles. While some patients feel nothing at all, others experience a brief moment of discomfort, sometimes followed by a mild sensation. Since acupuncture needles are left in place for 20 to 30 minutes, most people find the experience relaxing; some even fall asleep.
Yes. Spruce Acupuncture uses only sterile, disposable, single-use, FDA-approved needles.
During an initial 90 minute consultation, a comprehensive health evaluation will be completed that will include a detailed family medical history, current dietary habits, digestive system function, sleeping habits, and emotional patterns. As each system is examined, a complete list of symptoms will be compiled that will be used to design a treatment plan that is specific to your body.
Loose, comfortable clothing should be worn that will allow access to the knees, elbows, and torso. Please arrive 5 or 10 minutes before a scheduled appointment to allow time for relaxation before treatment begins.
What to avoid before an appointment:
- Both an empty stomach and an overly full stomach are discouraged. A modest meal before treatment is recommended.
- Do not brush your tongue on the day of treatment.
- Abstain from alcohol or drugs on the day of treatment.
A prescribed number of sessions will depend on the nature of the symptom and how long it has existed. For most conditions, a series of several sessions will be necessary to achieve maximum benefit. During an initial consultation, Sharon will create a customized treatment plan that will include specific treatment therapies and a recommended number of sessions.
The length of an acupuncture session will vary according to the condition being treated. Typically, a first visit is between 75-90 minutes. Follow up sessions are generally closer to 45 -60 minutes.
Patients undergoing acupuncture therapy normally feel relaxed and calm. However, it is not unusual to feel tired for a few hours if the experience is particularly strong. Patients may also experience a short-term flair-up of symptoms during the healing process. We recommend avoiding big meals, vigorous exercise, alcohol, and stressful situations immediately following treatment.