Tips That Will Help You Prepare For Your First Acupuncture Session

If you are suffering from chronic back pain, participating in acupuncture sessions can help loosen sore muscles and decrease the discomfort that you have been experiencing. If you are nervous about your first session, take some steps to help prepare for it so that you know what to expect and remain calm as you are being treated.

Learn More About Acupuncture

Before heading off to your appointment with an acupuncturist, learn how acupuncture is performed and the side effects that you may experience during or soon after your sessions. Most acupuncturists will offer you a comfortable table to lie on that is set in a quiet room. Sterilized needles will be placed into parts of your body that are associated with the pain that you are experiencing.

Your muscles may twitch some when the needles are first inserted. This is your body's natural response to feeling an unusual sensation. You may experience soreness or slight bruising once your sessions are complete. Your acupuncturist may suggest a warm bath or pain relieving cream as a way to cope with these side effects. Ask your acupuncturist any questions that you have and do not be afraid to speak up if you are experiencing pain during your session or if you would like the acupuncturist to move slower. 

Bring Items That Will Help You Relax

A comfortable robe, personal listening device, soothing music, and cushioned blindfold can help make your session more satisfying. Bring these items with you to your first appointment and feel free to use them as you are being treated. While your eyes are covered, visualize a positive experience and focus on the relaxing melody of each song that you choose to listen to. Wearing a familiar garment will help you feel secure as the acupuncturist places the needles into the appropriate areas on your back. 

Satisfy Your Needs

Eat a healthy meal before leaving for your appointment. Your first session with an acupuncturist may take a while, since you will need to answer questions about your medical history and have your back examined before you begin receiving treatment.

Get a good night's sleep the night before your appointment. Eat a healthy meal so that you won't experience any cravings while you are away from your home. Fulfill all of your obligations with others and alert close friends and family members about your appointment so that they won't try calling you while you are being treated. By tying up loose ends, you won't be preoccupied during your session.

After your first session is over, take note of how you are feeling during the following days. If your back pain is diminishing and you found your initial appointment to be satisfying, continue setting up appointments with your acupuncturist on a regular basis. In time, your back pain may be eliminated altogether, encouraging you to participate in more activities that you enjoy and giving you a sense of well-being. Celebrate the satisfying results by purchasing a flattering outfit or spending a night out on the town.