Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular in the United States, with more insurance plans covering the treatment and more doctors referring their patients to acupuncturists for complementary care. To get the most out of your acupuncture session, it's important to prepare in advance. At Sparkes Acupuncture in Oakland, New Jersey, we work alongside Dr. Corallo, a board-certified chiropractic physician with 30 years of experience in pain management and comprehensive medical care.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for your acupuncture appointment. Before your appointment, keep a list of all your current medications and supplements. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and anticoagulants can have harmful effects, so it's important to be aware of any medications you're taking. Additionally, avoid drinking coffee for at least two hours before your acupuncture session.
As a stimulant, coffee increases the body's fight or flight response, something that acupuncture seeks to diminish. It's also important to drink plenty of water before and after your appointment. This helps the body eliminate toxins and provides the body with the resources it needs to heal. Eating a light meal an hour or two before treatment is also recommended. If you're being treated for pain or for a specific injury, the acupuncturist will want to examine the affected area and possibly treat it locally as well. When you schedule your acupuncture appointment, make sure you don't do an overly stressful activity before or after.
Feeling the pulse on each wrist gives the acupuncturist an idea of your energy status and can provide important diagnostic information. If other Chinese medicine therapies such as cupping or moxibustion are recommended, these are done along with acupuncture at no additional cost. Acupuncture is not a painful experience, although some patients occasionally feel a slight prick at the time of insertion or a temporary heaviness after they have stimulated a point. To get the most out of your acupuncture treatment, make sure you don't do strenuous or stressful activities before or after your appointment. At Sparkes Acupuncture in Oakland, New Jersey, we work alongside Dr. He is a medical specialist in acupuncture, specialist in classical Chinese herbal medicine, shiatsu practitioner and tuina therapist, educator in oriental therapies and director of the Australian Shiatsu College.
If you're considering taking advantage of the incredible benefits of acupuncture, consider these tips as you prepare for your appointment. With proper preparation and care, you can ensure that you get the most out of your acupuncture session.
