One of the first questions most clients ask is: “How many treatment sessions will I need?” This is a great question, with a varying answer. I have certainly had patients that visited once for the treatment of something simple like lingering cold or flu symptoms, they improved almost immediately, and did not feel they needed further treatment. However, most patients find that this is not the case for them.
Acupuncture is most effective when it simultaneously treats your current symptoms and the underlying issues that caused those symptoms to occur. Most of us did not just wake up yesterday with a sudden pain or ailment, but rather have been living with ongoing or increasing pain and illness. It took time for these ailments to build up and it will take time to break them down.
One patient being treated for chronic knee pain felt immediate relief at the start of his very first treatment! This was exciting for both of us as he had been living a compromised lifestyle working around the constant paint. Because the pain was due to a decades old car accident, he understood that one treatment would not be adequate. With 80% of his pain relieved, follow up treatments focused on secondary issues, and an herbal formula to help move blood and support further pain relief.
For women carrying a breech pregnancy, the recommended number of treatments is generally 1-3 visits per week for 10 days to 2 weeks.
Some patients living with chronic pain or ongoing conditions such as anxiety or high blood pressure, have received treatments monthly for several years.
After your initial consultation and treatment, follow up sessions are generally recommended. While individual cases vary, four to eight visits over a four-week period often achieves desired results.
How many treatments are needed is varied, and depends on your individual health, your lifestyle needs, and your budget. Multi-treatment packages are available at a discounted rate. Call or email me and we’ll make time at your next appointment to discuss your long-term care needs.