First Time/New patient

Acupuncture consist of inserting thin needles into specific points of the body. Acupuncture needles are typically not much thicker than a hair. The needles usually do not hurt. It is nothing like receiving an ordinary injection. Most people find acupuncture to be relaxing by restoring the harmonious balance of the body.

When performed by a licensed professional, acupuncture is extremely safe. At Smart Health Acupuncture, we used individually packaged, sterile, disposable needles. Smart Health Acupuncture follows CCAOM’s Clean Needle Technique standards which are enforced by the California Board of Acupuncture.

What is a typical treatment?

1. If it is your first time with us, you will be asked to fill out a thorough medical intake form. On this form, you can let us know what health conditions you would like us to treat. In addition, you will answer questions about your past medical history. This will help the acupuncturist understand your overall health and how to best treat you.
2. The acupuncturist will take you into a treatment room and go over your medical intake. Here the acupuncturist will ask you questions about your health and current condition. This will allow patients to tell the acupuncturist about your health concerns and what health goals you want to achieve.
3. After the intake, the acupuncturist will develop a treatment plan that is specifically designed and tailored to you. The acupuncturist will explain to you their treatment plans the best course of action is for you.
4. Once all questions have been answered, the acupuncturist will then proceed with the treatment. The acupuncturist will have you lay down on the treatment table (your acupuncturist will determine the best position for you, this may include facing up, down, or on you side), and will begin the treatment by preparing and disinfecting the area of the acupuncture points with an alcohol swab.
5. After the acupuncturist has inserted all the needles, you will get to relax on the table on average of 20-40 minutes. You will be left with a bell or buzzer so if at anytime you need the acupuncturist, they will be able to attend to you at any moment.
6. The acupuncturist will return after the designated period of time to remove the needles. After the all the needles have been removed, the acupuncturist will consult with you to determine how the treatment went and inform the you of an appropriate schedule for when you should return.
7. Expect the first session to last a total of 50-60 minutes. Sessions for a returning patient are normally shorter, and last approximately 30-50 minutes.

Preparation before your treatment

There is very little preparation you will need to do before a treatment. On the day of your treatment, make sure you eat something at least a few of hours before your treatment.

Wear loose, comfortable clothes if possible. Gowns will be provided if needed.

Acupuncture Aftercare

Following your treatment, you may feel some soreness or tenderness in the areas where the needles were inserted. This is very common especially if you are being treated for pain and musculoskeletal disorders. This feeling is similar to a post workout soreness or a deep tissue massage which may last 1-2 days. This is actually a good sign. This mean that the body released muscle tension and lactic acid in the muscles. After the soreness disappears, you should feel less pain and stress in your body.

Make sure you drink plenty of water after your treatment as the hydration will diminish any soreness you may experience. You may also want to have something to eat after your treatment as well.

Throughout the time before your next treatment, make sure you monitor your conditions so that you can report your progress to your acupuncturist upon your next visit. This will help the acupuncturist adjust or change your treatment accordingly.