For New Patients

Frequently Asked Questions – New Patients

How do I prepare for my first acupuncture appointment?

Dress comfortably – the treatment takes about 30 minutes, and we want you to be able to relax.

Have a snack before you come in.

Take it easy after the treatment – don’t plan on going to the gym.

If you can download our intake form, please do so and take your time filling it out. Try to answer all the questions even if they seem irrelevant to your problem. Your answers are crucial in establishing an accurate diagnosis and treating you more effectively.

I am scared of needles, can I still have acupuncture?

Yes, you can. Most people are uncomfortable with the thought of being treated with needles. Acupuncture needles are ultra-thin and flexible, thereby permitting a painless insertion. The sensation is sometimes compared to a mosquito bite. You may feel some heaviness, distention, or tingling either around the needle or traveling up or down the affected meridian. These sensations are normal. Many patients fall asleep during acupuncture treatments.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is extremely safe when provided by a licensed professional. We exclusively use sterile, disposable, and individually packaged needles as required by law. Every licensed acupuncturist has also completed a “clean needle technique” class and exam. All practitioners at Avicenna have invested in at least 180 hours of course work concerning needling technique and safety.

Additionally, we observed and practiced the insertion and removal of needles during multiple internships for more than 1,000 hours under the supervision of licensed acupuncture university staff.

How many treatments do I need to feel better?

We will discuss your treatment plan during your initial visit. Acute conditions are generally treated faster than chronic diseases. Most patients experience some relief of their symptoms after the first visit.

Can acupuncture treat my condition?

We are happy to give you an idea about Chinese Medicine relating to the problems you experience during a brief free consultation. Many conditions can be treated solely by Chinese Medicine effectively. At times it is necessary though to get checked by your primary physician or take prescription drugs. Often, a combination of both can be an excellent path on your way to better health. At Avicenna, we will gladly assist you in this decision-making process.

Are there any conditions that acupuncture is contraindicated for?

Generally, Acupuncture should be avoided when a person has been:

• Drinking alcohol
• Abusing recreational drugs

There are specific treatment protocols for people:

• On blood-thinning medicine (e.g. Coumadin)
• With newly diagnosed cancer
• On seizure precautions
• Who are pregnant

These treatment protocols are practiced at Avicenna Acupuncture with the utmost care.

Do you treat kids?

Children, up to the age of 18, need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the initial interview and while the practitioner is inserting the needles.

Igor has been very successful in treating bed-wetting, sleeplessness, disturbed sleep, and asthma in children.

Do you use herbs to treat your patients?

Yes, we do. We have an extensive herb pharmacy in our office. We will prepare your individualized formula at the time you receive your acupuncture treatment.

Are Chinese herbs safe?

Please refer to our Traditional Chinese Medicine page for in-depth information about our herb pharmacy and the use of Chinese Medicine.