What happens at your first appointment?
If you have not had acupuncture before, you may be wondering what happens at your first appointment. Your first visit gives us time to find out more about you, explain the treatment and answer any questions you may have.
Before you come
- Allow 45 mins to an hour for your first treatment
- Eat normally beforehand
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- Bring a large towel to cover you while you are on the couch
- Tell us about any medication you are taking
- Tell us if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or have had previous treatment for cancer
- Read our consent form (PDF) (opens in a new tab) before your appointment
Your first consultation
On your first visit you will be asked in detail about your problem, general health and medical history. Your pulse is taken and tongue examined. This information is then used to formulate an individual treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs.
Please tell us about any medication you are taking and anything important about your medical history. It is also important to let us know if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, or if you have had previous treatment for cancer.
You will be advised of how many treatment sessions you are likely to need. This can vary depending on why you have come for acupuncture and how long you have had the problem.
There will also be plenty of opportunity to ask questions before your treatment starts.
You will be asked to sign a consent form at your first appointment. You can read it in advance here (PDF, opens in a new tab).
What happens during treatment?
Treatment involves inserting very fine needles at specific points on the body to regulate the flow of qi.
The needles used for acupuncture are much finer than those used for injections or blood tests. They are sterile, single-use needles and are disposed of after each treatment.
They are usually painless but if you are particularly averse to the thought of needles, please tell us.
The needles may be left in place for a short time while you relax.
Treatment may also involve the use of massage, heat, moxibustion, electroacupuncture and cupping. We will explain anything we intend to use as part of your treatment.
Find out more about other techniques used in treatment
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing is helpful as we may need access to acupuncture points on your arms or legs.
Depending on your treatment, you may occasionally need to remove some clothing. Please bring a large towel to cover you, but if you forget, we have spares. Your privacy will be respected at all times.
Should I eat before acupuncture?
It is best not to arrive for treatment on an empty stomach. There is no need to eat anything special; just eat normally before your appointment.
How long is an appointment?
Your first appointment lasts 45 minutes to an hour.
Follow-up appointments normally last around 45 minutes.
Is acupuncture safe?
We use sterile, single-use acupuncture needles which are disposed of after treatment. As members of the British Acupuncture Council, we follow its professional and safe-practice standards.
After your treatment
Many people feel deeply relaxed and experience pleasant sensations during treatment.
Occasionally you may feel a little tired afterwards or notice a small bruise where a needle has been inserted.
It is normal to have a temporary flare-up of symptoms for about 24 hours or so after treatment. Please telephone us if you have any concerns.