Gretchen Sass, DTCM - Contact Wellness LLC Acupuncture & Personalized Wellness

Your First Visit

Before you arrive for your first acupuncture appointment I ask you to log in and complete the health history form found on my scheduling website. The health history form asks questions about your current state of health, past illnesses, and family history. These questions are important because the holistic approach of Oriental medicine takes everything into account. Your current symptoms may not seem related to past health issues, but our bodies are complex landscapes and everything that happens to them leaves its mark.

After reviewing your intake form, we will discuss your condition, and I may examine your pulse and tongue, which are two of the basic diagnostic methods of Oriental medicine. The acupuncture points I choose will depend on your condition and often are in the leg, arms, neck, shoulder, back or ears depending on what we are working on. Once the needles are inserted, I will leave you to lie comfortably with the needles in place. Many people find acupuncture treatment deeply relaxing, and it is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep during this time. Usually, after 10 minutes, I will adjust the needles and insert additional needles and let you relax for another 10-15 minutes.

Your first treatment will be 1.5 hours in length. Wearing comfortable clothes is appreciated and I have gowns if necessary. And, don't worry, there is ample opportunity to use the restroom before the treatment begins. Follow up treatments are one hour.