Acupuncture seems mysterious yet intriguing to many people. The fact that it can assist in curing your body from various illnesses and injuries certainly sounds promising. Most people hesitate to move forward with acupuncture because they do not know what to expect. Once you are aware of how simple and effective Chicago acupuncture can be, it is much easier to make your decision.
The First Appointment
At your first appointment you will fill out a questionnaire, just as you do at your Western medicine doctor appointments. The difference you will notice in this questionnaire is the in-depth questions regarding not only your physical health but also your emotional and mental well-being. Ancient Chinese medicine believes the body and mind are one entity. When one part of your body or mind is not optimally performing, it affects the rest of your body.
Your acupuncturist will consult with you while going over your questionnaire. The acupuncturist needs a full picture of not only the ailments you complain of but the entire health of your body. Because of their views of the body, you might find yourself talking about completely different bodily functions than you are there to seek treatment for.
After the consultation your acupuncturist will check your tongue and wrist pulse. This furthers the acupuncturist’s knowledge about your overall health and well-being. The main goal is for the acupuncturist to find the underlying issue to your complaints. A headache is just a symptom of something that is wrong within your body. It is the acupuncturist’s job to find the underlying issue.
Chicago Acupuncture Treatment
Once the consultation is complete, it is time to start your treatment plan. You will lie on a comfortable massage table for your treatment, and the specific acupuncture points that require treatment will be located. The fine needles will then be inserted in various parts of your body. Your licensed acupuncturist will know exactly what acupuncture points need stimulating in order to treat your underlying issues. The number of needles inserted will depend on the treatment you need. The most important factor is that you lie still and simply relax while the needles stay in place for the recommended 25-35 minutes.
The needles are virtually painless, and the combination of a relaxed environment and the stimulation of certain acupuncture points will most likely relax you, allowing you peace and harmony for this short period of time. There is typically no pain involved; you might feel small sensations throughout your body but nothing painful or uncomfortable. Once the allotted time is up, your needles are removed and your Chicago acupuncture treatment is complete.
