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THE FIRST CONSULTATION
At your first consultation (approx. one to one and a half hours)
I will ask you detailed questions about your condition, your bodily
functions, your lifestyle and your medical history. I will feel
the pulse at your wrist and examine your tongue. A physical examination
may be necessary.
WHY DO YOU ASK SO MANY QUESTIONS?
I will not be looking for one or two symptoms in isolation. Rather,
through detailed questioning and observation I will try to build
up a comprehensive picture of you and the condition of your qi and,
from this, formulate a diagnosis. This will allow me to select the
appropriate combination of points in which to insert the needles.
It will also determine whether a herbal remedy is appropriate and
which remedy you should take.
DOES IT HURT?
I use extremely fine sterile needles and the process can be almost
painless for most people, though for those who are very sensitive,
there may be some discomfort. You may feel a sensation of dullness
or heaviness in the area needled. This indicates that the qi is
being activated.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR TREATMENT?
Before your treatment you should avoid alcohol and coffee; also
avoid foods or drink which colour your tongue. If you are in the
habit of brushing your tongue, please don't do this on the day of
your first consultation. Try not to have a large meal within the
hour before your treatment, though you should also avoid coming
on an empty stomach. Please wear loose clothing for your appointment.
You may find it easier to wear separates.
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER TREATMENT?
After your treatment you may feel particularly calm and perhaps
a little light-headed. It is best to avoid planning anything too
strenuous for the next couple of hours. I also suggest that you
avoid alcohol on the day of treatment.
CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE
In addition to acupuncture, I may offer you treatment with Chinese
herbal medicine, usually prescribed in the form of pills. These
are used to help to revitalize the qi and the blood. They
support and enhance the effect of acupuncture on the qi,
particularly where there is long-term chronic illness.
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