After your treatment you may feel relaxed or energized. It is common to feel drowsy so you may want to give yourself some time before driving. For optimal results from your treatment it is best to relax afterwards and avoid excessive stimulation such as drugs, alcohol, and heavy exercise.  Each patient is unique and results can vary based on severity of your condition and how long it has been going on. It is not uncommon for patients to experience some relief immediately after the first treatment. If you are not improving after a few treatments, your treatment plan will be reevaluated. Chinese Medicine has multiple ways to address a symptom and your treatment can be adjusted to your needs.

Your initial appointment will have a longer intake to obtain a thorough medical history. You will be asked questions about all body systems and history of symptoms. Your practitioner will then ask to see your tongue and will feel your radial pulse (at the wrist). If you are being seen for pain, your practitioner may examine you using orthopedic tests and check range of motion. For the treatment you will lie on a massage table for approximately 20-45 minutes. You will not need to completely undress, but expect affected areas of the body to be exposed, with modest draping.

Please wear loose fitting clothing and eat a small meal or snack before your appointment. You will be asked to stick out your tongue for diagnosis, so please avoid coffee and brushing your tongue immediately before your appointment.

At this time Central Penn Acupuncture does not accept health insurance. However, as alternative medicine is gaining popularity, more insurance carriers are including it. Please check with your insurance provider if Acupuncture is covered in your plan. You will be provided with an invoice that can be submitted to your insurance company for reimbursement. Cash, check, or credit card payment must be submitted at the time of treatment.

Acupuncture is usually described as a pleasant relaxing and energizing experience. In general, needle insertion is painless or has a very subtle sensation. Patients often describe a slight pressure or warm sensation at the needle site or radiating up the meridian. If the sensation becomes too strong or uncomfortable, needles can easily be removed and the treatment plan adjusted to your comfort level.

Acupuncture needles are fine, hair-like, and solid, unlike injection needles, which are much larger and hollow. It is perfectly normal to be uncomfortable with needles and Carolyn will be happy to walk you through the process at your own pace.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete medical system that has been used as primary medical care for thousands of years in China. Acupuncture can treat much more than pain and has been used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. Some common conditions include headaches, insomnia, allergies, smoking cessation  weight loss, digestive disorders, women’s health, stress, hypertension, and the common cold.