Mila Zimmerman Acupuncture Charlottesville, VA

Your First Visit

Before you arrive for your first acupuncture appointment I will ask you to complete a comprehensive health history questionnaire. This form asks questions about your current state of health, past illnesses, and family history. These questions are important because the holistic approach of Chinese medicine takes everything into account. Your current symptoms may not seem related to past health issues, emotions or condition of your spirit, yet it is important to recognize the interconnectedness among these areas of life.  The Five Element tradition is a wonderful way to awaken the observer within us and helps us to initiate changes based on those enhanced observations as treatments continue.

For your first session, expect to spend about 2 hours in total so that we can review your intake form and spend time discussing your main concerns.  I will also examine your pulse and tongue, which are two main components of diagnosis in Chinese medicine.  The acupuncture points I choose in each session will vary and will always relate to your initial concerns, underlying conditions and any issues that arise between sessions. Once the needles are inserted, I will leave you to lie comfortably for 15-20 minutes 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. Everybody responds to acupuncture differently, and some people experience specific phenomena during and/or after their sessions that reflect the body's release of what is no longer needed.  After your needles are removed, we will talk more about what you notice, what you might expect until your next visit and how to schedule your following treatments.  You are on your way to feeling healthier, more vibrant and empowered about your own path to healing!