Your initial visit to the acupuncture clinic will involve a private meeting with the acupuncturist where you will have a chance to discuss your health concerns and issues. Your practitioner will probably ask questions to get a clearer picture of the condition and how it is impacting your life. She will then ask many more questions to help her understand your particular constitution, habits and lifestyle. She will also spend some time feeling your pulse and looking at your tongue. All this information is invaluable for coming to an accurate Chinese Medicine diagnosis of your condition. This diagnosis along with your symptoms drives the selection of acupuncture points and herbal recommendations.
After the interview, you will be shown to a chair to table to sit or lie comfortably. It is best to wear loose, adjustable clothing to allow access to legs and arms. At times disrobing is required, but privacy and appropriate draping are always at hand. Once settled, the needles are inserted. Needles are left in place for about 30 minutes. During this time you are encouraged to relax or nap if you are so inclined. If you are anxious and need more attention, just let your acupuncturist know ahead of time and she will be happy to check on you regularly. In private sessions, your acupuncturist may just stay in the room with you for the duration of the session if that is what you need. Once the needles are removed, you are free to go about your day.
To get the most out of your acupuncture session, you are encouraged to drink plenty of water throughout the remainder of the day (really, every day!), avoid known mental and emotional stressors, avoid heavy physical activity (walking is fine), and take some time to observe how you are feeling.