Acupuncture works by treating the meridians, rebalancing the body’s energy flow, correcting patterns of imbalance, and normalizing organ function. Relaxed muscle tone, improved circulation, better nerve conduction, and elimination of toxins are all benefits that result from acupuncture and contribute to the healing process.
To receive the maximum benefit from acupuncture, it is best to avoid anything that is either very stimulating or draining around the time of your treatment. Please avoid the following immediately before or after your visit:
- Coffee (including decaf) and caffeine
- Smoking (including all forms of electronic devices), tobacco, and nicotine
- Alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs
- Heavy exercise and sweating
- Physical therapy, chiropractic, or massage therapy
- Donating blood, blood tests, X-rays, MRIs, and dental work
Please also:
- Avoid lotions, oils, powders and heavy make-up, as they make the insertion of acupuncture needles more difficult and less effective.
- Avoid perfume, cologne, and scented body care products, as they may cause reactions in other patients who have allergies and sensitivities.
- Arrive for your treatment clean and showered.
- Do not wear clothing that is covered in animal hair.
Before your actual treatment and during the consultation, prepare in the following ways:
- Arrive early, use the bathroom, and be ready on time for your appointment.
- Do not expect to rush and get out early; if you don’t have time, then please schedule when you do.
- Focus your time and energy with me on Chinese medicine, not on issues related to other therapies.
During the treatment, it is best to relax as much as possible. The following suggestions will help:
- Avoid casual conversation or questions in the treatment room; relax and focus on the treatment.
- Be aware of your breathing, and let it naturally slow and deepen. No breathing exercises are necessary.
- Avoid too much thinking and planning, and instead focus on your body, your breathing, and your experience.
- Stay off your phone.
- Do not leave the treatment room without shoes.
Between treatments:
- Pay attention to any changes you experience. Take notes and bring them for discussion. These may include:
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- Concentration, sleep, dreams, breathing, digestion, elimination, energy, stress level, posture immunity, emotions, and any symptoms we are addressing.
- When appropriate, keep track of food intake and bring to the next appointment for discussion.
- Contact me when necessary with questions or concerns.
The more you understand about Chinese medicine, the more benefit you can derive from your treatment. Please educate yourself by reading the literature in the waiting room and by visiting my website RobertKellerLAc.com. Please always feel free to ask me questions about Chinese medicine during your visit.