On the initial appointment, patients complete a health history questionnaire. The acupuncturist then interviews the patient on primary health concerns, lifestyle, diet, emotions, sleep, appetite, digestion, stress, etc. During that discussion, the acupuncturist will also conduct a physical examination, carefully noting her/his appearance, voice, tongue condition and pulse to establish a working diagnosis. An appropriate course of treatment is then determined.

A session is usually completed within an hour – often 45 minutes – including initial consultation. The acupuncturist may incorporate the following techniques during the treatment:

• Moxibustion - heating of acupuncture needles with dried herb sticks to activate and warm the acupuncture point. Also known as “moxa”.

** Moxibustion is a method whereby mugwort (artemesia vulgaris) is used to apply heat to an acupuncture point.

• Cupping - the application of glass cups to create suction on the skin. This is to relieve stagnation of qi and blood, e.g. in sports injury.

• Use of herbal medicine - Chinese herbs may be given in the form of teas, pills, and capsules to supplement acupuncture treatment.

• Electrostimulation - providing electrical stimulation to two to four acupuncture needles can provide relief from pain and muscle tension.

• Tuina (Tui Na) - is an Oriental bodywork therapy, used in China for 2,000 years. By the application of massage and manipulation, tuina seeks to establish a more harmonious flow of qi through the body’s network of channels and collaterals, allowing the body to naturally heal itself.

** Effective treatment protocols have been tested in a practical setting. Tuina is not especially useful for those seeking a mild, sedating and relaxing massage since it tends to be more task-focused than other types of bodywork.