Acupuncture for Beginners: What to Expect at Your First Session
by Elizabeth Harmon, M.S.. L.Ac. (everyone calls me Libba)
If you’re curious about acupuncture but unsure what to expect at your first session, below are some things to keep in mind as you embark on this leg of your healing journey. Many people come to their first session feeling excited and nervous. Here at Harmon Acupuncture in Omaha, Nebraska, I strive to make each session a comfortable, healing experience. Here’s what you can expect when you come in for your first acupuncture session…
1. The Initial Consultation: Understanding Your Goals
Before your first session, we’ll start with an initial consultation. On the phone or in person, I’d like to get to know you and understand your goals. I’ll ask about your medical history, current health issues, lifestyle, and anything else that feels relevant. Acupuncture is a very individualized treatment process. Understanding your specific concerns—whether it’s chronic pain, stress, trauma, insomnia, depression, fertility, hormonal, or another issue—As much info about you helps me design a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
During our consultation, I’ll also answer any questions you might have. I can explain how acupuncture works, the conditions it can help with, and how I typically work with treatment plans. At Harmon Acupuncture, I prioritize transparency, confidentiality, and open communication, so don’t hesitate to share any concerns or curiosities!
2. The Setup: Creating a Relaxing Environment
Once we have a clear understanding of your needs, I’ll invite you to lie down in a comfortable treatment room. The room is set up to be a peaceful, relaxing space with soft lighting, calming sounds, and a cozy treatment table. This atmosphere helps the nervous system relax, preparing the body to benefit optimally from the session. You’ll be asked to lie down on your back, stomach, or side, depending on which areas will be treated.
3. The Needles: What It Feels Like
Most first-timers wonder about whether acupuncture hurts! I use very thin, sterile needles that are typically painless when inserted. You might feel a prick as each needle goes in; most people find it to be minimal and brief. After placement, you may feel a sensation known as "de qi," which is often described as a dull ache, a slight tingling, a warm sensation, or the feeling of sensation traveling down a pathway.. This feeling is perfectly normal and indicates that the needle has engaged with your body’s energy flow.
A common misconception about acupuncture is that it’s painful. Some people are more sensitive at the surface than others, and some parts of the body are more sensitive than others. My teacher used to say, “You’re SUPPOSED to feel it!”, which is true. However, acupuncture sessions tend to be far less stimulating, and more relaxing, and many clients even fall asleep during treatment.
I always work with the comfort-level of each client, and use less stimulation and less needles on the sensitive people. After the first treatment, most everyone begins to associate the needles with feeling better!
4. The Healing Process: Letting Acupuncture Work Its Magic
Once all the needles are placed, I will leave you to rest for the remainder of our time together. During this time, your body will be balancing its energy pathways, also known as “meridians.” This rest period allows your body’s natural healing processes to activate. The nervous system plays an enormous role in the healing process. Many people describe a deep sense of relaxation or even a “floating” sensation.
Feel free to relax, meditate, or even drift off to sleep during this time. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, you can always let me know and we can adjust to your level of ease..
5. Post-Session: What to Expect After Treatment
After your session, I will gently remove the needles, and you may feel a slight sense of calm and relaxation. It’s normal to feel a little tired or “light” after treatment, so we recommend planning a little space after your first appointment: Move slowly, perhaps take a rest, avoid stressors and strenuous activity, and drink plenty of water. After ensuing treatments, the body is more acclimated to recovery, so many people do go back to work, etc. It’s just nice to give space after your first treatment so that your body can integrate such a new experience.
Results vary from person to person, but many people notice immediate benefits, such as reduced pain, stress relief, or an improved sense of well-being. Others may need multiple sessions to experience full results, especially if dealing with chronic issues. We can discuss a recommended treatment plan tailored to your needs.
6. Frequently Asked Questions for First-Timers
Will I feel sore afterward?
Sometimes you can feel sore after acupuncture, and some people experience slight tenderness in certain areas. This is generally mild, temporary, and part of the healing process. Sometimes theres what we call a “healing crisis”, or the Herxheimer Effect. This is where symptoms get worse before they get better, and its a good thing!
How many sessions will I need?
This varies wildly, depending on many factors: your goals, diagnoses, conditions. Acute issues may require only one or a few sessions, while chronic conditions may need ongoing support. I leave it up to the client, but I can help you determine the ideal treatment frequency.
Can I combine acupuncture with other treatments?
Absolutely! Acupuncture often works well in combination with other therapies, such as massage, chiropractic, or conventional medicine. Just let me know if you’re receiving other treatments.
Ready for Your First Session?
Acupuncture is a safe, natural way to support your body’s healing, reduce stress, and promote overall wellness. At Harmon Acupuncture, I am here to guide you each step of the way. If you’re ready to experience the magic of acupuncture, or have more questions, feel free to reach out for a free phone consultation.
Book a free phone consultation, or an appoinment HERE