Getting Started

Treatment is begun with an initial examination and treatment that takes up to two hours, occasionally longer, and consists of a medical and personal history; documentation of chief and secondary complaints, including signs and symptoms; a review of body systems; and a physical exam.

The physical exam is conducted according to the parameters of Classical Five-Element Acupuncture and includes the palpation of the Chinese pulses (to determine Qi—or energy—levels); documentation of facial coloring, voice, odor, and emotion; and various tests to determine if any major energetic blocks are present that would interfere with treatment.

Acupuncture is applied, as appropriate, and a treatment plan is formulated, based on your unique, individual needs.

Follow-up sessions usually last about an hour. The number of follow-up sessions will depend on the findings of and response to the initial examination and treatment, as well as subsequent treatment, usually once a week until your energy system is able to stay in balance and any physical symptoms are mitigated. Periodic follow-up, to help maintain that balance, is recommended.