top of page
Traditional Chinese Medicine

What to expect during your treatment

I strive to cultivate a space that's both focused and relaxed to facilitate deep healing. At your initial visit we'll sit down and go through your chief complaints as well as your health history. If necessary I'll include orthopedic testing to discern which structures are affected, and then look at your tongue and pulse. At return appointments I'll check in about your symptoms, perform abbreviated testing and check your tongue and pulse. 

Will I feel the needles? Will it hurt?

You might feel the needles slightly when they are inserted but most describe it as slight pressure or a slight pricking. Once the needles are in you'll likely feel relaxed and unable to feel the needles. For reference the needles are about as thick as a human hair, and are filliform, which means they are not hollow. 

But seriously, I'm afraid of needles

I love introducing people to their first acupuncture treatment because it's always a fun exercise in meeting people where they are. I find that many people who are afraid of needles are still able to relax despite their fears thanks to the effects the acupuncture has on calming the nervous system. We can always adjust treatments to whatever you're comfortable with, even if that's just a couple of points.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is very safe and has a very low risk of side effects. I use single use sterilized needles for every treatment, and clean all other clinic materials with high-level disinfectant. 

How much do you charge?

I charge $125 for the 90 minute initial visit and $90 for return visits. I offer packages as well that save $10 per visit. 

How many treatments will I need?

I like to ask my patients for specific health-related goals so that I can come up with a realistic treatment plan for every patient, and of course every patient is different. Acupuncture works cumulatively, so I often recommend 4-6 treatments, and then we reassess to see how close you've come to your original health goals. From there we might continue at the same rate or decrease frequency of treatments, with the goal being that you're back on your feet and not needing to come in anymore (although I love it when my patients come and visit). And of course some patients prefer to just come every week or two because they enjoy the relaxation and calm that it provides. 

Feel free to email me with any other questions at 

zoe@acumissoula.com

bottom of page