What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the Chinese medical practice of inserting needles into specific points on the body to promote health and combat disease, thereby balancing Qi (pronounced “chee”), a subtle energy that circulates via energy channels called meridians.

Practiced for over 3000 years, each acupuncture point has a specific purpose and function with a predictable result.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Unlike needles used to give injections, acupuncture needles are extremely fine, approximately the diameter of a single human hair and are designed to enter the skin with the least resistance. For your protection, Cassandra uses only single-use, sterile, disposable needles.

Acupuncture treatments involve little or no pain, and are usually quite relaxing. You can expect to feel a light tingling, a feeling of heaviness, warmth, or numbness at the acupuncture site.

How Quickly Will I Respond?

Everyone is different!

Acute problems like a sore throat can often be resolved in a single session. With chronic problems, Cassandra is accustomed to seeing significant results within 4-6 treatments. The total number of treatments depends on:

• Severity of a person’s condition
• How long the condition has existed
• Patient’s overall health, energy & motivation

What to Expect at Your First Acupuncture Visit

We have several health history forms for you to complete prior to your initial visit. A first appointment lasts about 1.5 - 2 hours. We review your history and ask questions covering the major systems of the body in detail, including: energy level, sleep patterns, digestion and emotional well-being. During your clinical intake, we also feel your pulses and look at your tongue – two more Chinese medicine clinical tools that help us access your current situation.

Once you are given a Chinese medicine diagnosis your treatment begins. Acupuncture points are chosen based on your diagnosis and clinical findings. Every acupuncture point is indicated for certain treatments and has a specific function and every acupuncture treatment is aimed at resolving both your symptoms and the root cause of your illness or imbalance.