What to Expect at Your First Visit

Your first acupuncture appointment at ZJC Acupuncture is designed to be thorough, informative, and comfortable. Here's what you can expect when you visit our Greenwich Village practice.

Before Your Appointment

Prior to your visit, you'll receive intake forms to complete. These forms gather your health history, current concerns, and wellness goals. The more detailed information you can provide, the better we can tailor your treatment plan.

Your Initial Consultation

Your first appointment will last approximately 90-100 minutes. We'll begin with a comprehensive discussion about your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and treatment goals. This conversation helps us understand your unique constitution and develop a personalized treatment approach.

During this consultation, we'll also perform diagnostic assessments traditional to Chinese medicine, including pulse reading and tongue observation. These methods provide valuable insights into your body's internal balance.

Your First Treatment

After the consultation, you'll receive your first acupuncture treatment. You'll lie comfortably on a treatment table, and we'll insert hair-thin, sterile needles at specific points determined by your individual needs. Most people find the sensation minimal—perhaps a slight tingling or warmth—and many experience deep relaxation during treatment.

Depending on your condition, we may incorporate complementary therapies such as cupping, gua sha, or moxibustion. The needles typically remain in place for 20-30 minutes while you rest.

After Your Session

Following treatment, we'll discuss your personalized wellness plan, which may include dietary recommendations, lifestyle adjustments, and a suggested treatment schedule. Many people feel relaxed, energized, or experience immediate symptom relief after their first session, though results vary by individual and condition.