What to Expect From a TCM or Acupuncture Treatment
Being informed and understanding what to expect from the TCM process from the beginning will make you feel more comfortable about the experience.
Determine Your Goals
Are you looking for someone who will work with your current physician and offer effective pain management treatments? Are you seeking short-term treatment for a specific complaint or do you want a prevention-oriented, holistic approach to the health of mind, body and spirit that acupuncture and Eastern Medicine can provide? Do you have a work-related injury that is covered by Workers’ Compensation? Or do you have an ICBC related claim? You will be asked to complete an intake form to pinpoint your goals and offer a complete medical history. Click Here for an Intake Form ( Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader )Diagnosis
A TCM doctor’s diagnosis is determined in part using methods similar to other health care practitioners. In TCM, the diagnostic process is made up of four areas - known as the Four Examinations. These are:
- Looking: complexion, eyes, tongue, nails, hair, gait, stature and affect
- Hearing & Smelling: sound of voice and breath, odor of breath, skin
- Interrogation/asking: current complaints, health history, family health history, patterns of sleep, appetite, digestion, bowel movement, bladder, sweat, pain, emotional features, lifestyle features and gynecological features
- Touching: palpation of the body to discover body temperature, body moisture, pain; and taking of the pulse in different locations
The practitioner should
explain the nature of your problem, the recommended
treatment plan and an anticipated outcome.
