Frequently Asked Questions
if you don’t find the answer to your question here, contact Den 415-235-2551.
What can I expect at the first visit?
Before your first visit, please fill out the New Patient Form online. This will allow your information to be reviewed prior to your first visit, so better use can be made of your appointment time.
At your initial appointment, you or your child’s complete medical history will be discussed, a treatment plan will be developed, and an initial treatment will be given (with or without needles for children).
How long does it take?
This first visit is about 1.5 hours in length for adults, and approximately 1 hour for children. Follow-up appointments will be about 1 hour for adults and 30 minutes for children.
What can I do to prepare my child for their first visit?
Your child will pick up on your energy, so try to be calm and relaxed regarding their initial visit. You can assure your child that there are no tricks or surprises at The Acupuncture Den. Everything will be explained and discussed, and a child’s verbal consent will be obtained before any treatments are given. For young children, the needles are referred to as “taps,” so please don’t speak about “needles,” as this may cause unnecessary concern. Non-needle treatments are always an option.
Will my child need to be still during a treatment?
No! Treatments for toddlers and young children are often given while they are having fun in a little play area. One of the most challenging parts of treating children is that they usually don’t want to leave the office once they’ve started playing.
What should I wear?
If possible, please wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing which allow easy access to your arms, legs and abdomen.
Should I eat before a treatment?
You should eat something within a couple of hours before you come to your acupuncture appointment, but it is best not to eat immediately before a treatment.
Does acupuncture hurt?
While many people are concerned about what acupuncture will feel like, most people find it to be gentle and easy to receive. While there is sometimes a very brief pricking sensation with the insertion of the needle, this sensation should subside almost immediately. After that, you may experience a sensation of heaviness, warmth or tingling at the site of the needle. Many people sleep or meditate during a treatment, and most find themselves very relaxed when the treatment is done.
Is it safe?
Yes. Acupuncture is very safe when practiced by a licensed practitioner. All needles are sterile, single-use, and disposable. Clean Needle Technique is used at all times.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments you will need will depend on your symptoms, how long you have had them, and the severity or complexity of your condition. This varies widely from patient to patient. We will discuss the recommended number of treatments to begin with, and this will be reassessed as treatment progresses.
Do I need to take herbs and supplements?
It is common to suggest an herbal formula and/or nutritional supplement to complement and augment your acupuncture treatment. When taken under the supervision of a licensed practitioner, Chinese herbal medicine is safe and effective. All herbs and supplements are obtained from reputable suppliers to ensure quality.
What can I do after treatment?
It is ideal to be able to take it easy after a treatment. Most people report feeling both relaxed and energized. Vigorous exercise and bathing should be avoided for a couple of hours. You can eat or drink after a treatment.
pharmacy
location
