What Happens at Your First Acupuncture Appointment?
Booking Acupuncture for the first time can feel like a bit of an unknown. You may be wondering what you will be asked, what you should wear, whether treatment happens at the first appointment and what the needles actually feel like.
A first appointment with me is deliberately unhurried. It gives us time to talk properly, build a clear picture of what has brought you to acupuncture and make sure you understand what will happen before any treatment begins.
Before you arrive
You do not need to prepare a perfect medical history. It can be useful to bring a list of any medication or supplements you take and details of relevant tests, diagnoses or recent treatment if you have them. Comfortable clothing is helpful, particularly clothing that can be moved easily around the arms and lower legs.
The consultation comes first
My initial appointments usually last around 70-90 minutes. We start with a detailed conversation about your main reason for coming, your general health, sleep, appetite, energy, lifestyle and any other information that may be relevant. Traditional acupuncture looks at the person as a whole, so questions can sometimes feel broader than you might expect from a short medical appointment.
This is also your opportunity to ask anything you want. If you are nervous about needles, unsure about a part of the treatment or simply want me to explain why I am asking a particular question, please say.
A few simple observations
Depending on the appointment, I may also use traditional diagnostic observations such as taking your pulse. The purpose is to gather information that helps me plan an individual treatment rather than using the same routine for every person.
Will I have acupuncture at the first appointment?
In most straightforward cases, there is time for treatment during the first appointment after the consultation. If anything needs further discussion first, I will explain that clearly. You are always in control of whether treatment goes ahead.
What do the needles feel like?
Acupuncture needles are very fine and are quite different from the needles used for injections or blood tests. Some people feel very little as a needle is inserted. Others notice a brief tingling, heaviness or dull sensation. If anything feels uncomfortable, tell me straight away so I can adjust the treatment.
After the appointment
Many people enjoy having a little space after an acupuncture appointment rather than rushing straight into a packed schedule. How you feel afterwards can vary, so notice how your body responds and follow any practical advice we have discussed.
What happens next?
There is no useful one-size-fits-all number of acupuncture appointments. If you decide to continue, we will review how you are getting on and agree the next step rather than booking an arbitrary course without discussion.
First acupuncture appointments in Tring and Berkhamsted
I see patients from my clinics in Tring and Berkhamsted. If you are thinking about acupuncture but are not ready to book, I also offer a free 15-minute consultation so you can ask questions first.
Ready to ask a few questions or book your first appointment? Get in touch with Sasha Godfrey Acupuncture or use the online booking page.
Member of the British Acupuncture Council
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