What to expect at your first acupuncture visit
First visits
5 min read
Mei Tanaka, LAc
How it feels, how many needles, what to wear and why so many people fall asleep on the table.
Most people arrive a little nervous about the needles. That is normal, and it usually lasts about two minutes. Acupuncture needles are about as thin as a hair, nothing like the needle used for a blood test.
Your first visit starts with a long conversation: what bothers you, how you sleep, eat and feel. Then we check your pulse at both wrists and look at your tongue, which tells us more than you might expect.
Treatment itself is usually 10 to 20 needles and 25 minutes of rest in a warm, quiet room. Most people feel a dull ache or warmth at a point, then very relaxed. Wear loose clothes and eat a light snack an hour before.
This article is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Results vary from person to person. If you have chest pain, sudden weakness or trouble breathing, call 911.
Written by
Mei Tanaka, LAc
Reviewed by the Willow Street clinical team.
