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What to Expect After your First Acupuncture Visit

Most people find their first acupuncture treatment to be far more relaxing and calming than they ever expected. In fact, many patients fall asleep on the table with their needles in, or report having amazing sleep the night after their treatment.


It is important to be aware of how you are feeling after your first visit; including any changes in symptoms or conditions between treatments. Sometimes even small changes can be helpful in understanding how your body is responding to treatment, and how you will progress.


Sometimes you may experience sensitivity or even a small bruise at the needle insertion point. This is temporary and will resolve on its own. You may apply a cold compress if you wish.

On rare occasion, an existing condition may temporarily worsen before it gets better. This happens because the acupuncture needles work to move energy (Qi) in the energy channels (meridians). Sometimes that energy comes upon a blockage, and, like river water encountering a dam (your area of blockage/pain/discomfort), the water must build up before it can break through the dam. The pressure from the extra “water” (Qi) against the dam (blockage) can temporarily exacerbate an issue, but it is a positive indicator that the energy is moving. Soon, the pressure of the “water” breaks through the dam, and the river (energy) can move freely again, which causes a reduction or elimination of the pain/disease. If you experience this phenomenon, it should only last a few hours to a couple of days at most.


If you received herbs, please take them as directed. This will ensure the best possible results. If you have questions about how you are responding to the herbs, please call the office. The fibrous nature of some of the pills or tablets, can temporarily cause gas, bloating or changes in elimination in some sensitive individuals. You can reduce this effect by taking your herbs with food. If these symptoms last more than a couple of days, please call the office to discuss a change in dosage until your system is more used to them.


If you have any questions regarding your treatment, your herbs, or anything else related to your treatment, please call so that we may address your individual questions.


Dawn Potter, AP, Dipl.OM: 727-475-4710

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