Thinking about coming in?

Before Your Appointment

A little preparation can help you feel more comfortable during treatment.

What to wear

Wear loose, comfortable clothing if possible.

For acupuncture, we may need access to areas such as the lower legs, arms, shoulders, back, abdomen, hips or neck, depending on what you are coming in for. Shorts, loose pants, a singlet, or clothing that can be easily rolled up is usually helpful.

You will always be covered appropriately, and treatment is paced according to your comfort.

Should I eat before acupuncture?

It is best not to come on an empty stomach.

Have a light meal or snack before your appointment, especially if you are coming in the morning or have not eaten for several hours. You do not need a large meal, but having something in your stomach can help reduce the chance of feeling light-headed.

Try not to arrive immediately after a very heavy meal.

What should I drink?

Water is best.

You do not need to drink large amounts, but it is sensible to be normally hydrated before your appointment. Try to avoid arriving dehydrated, rushed, or overly caffeinated.

What should I bring?

Please bring, or be ready to discuss:

• Your main health concern
• Any relevant scans, blood tests, reports, or diagnoses
• A list of medications and supplements
• Any major surgeries, injuries, or medical conditions
• For women’s health or fertility appointments, details about your cycle, pregnancy history, IVF treatment, or relevant testing if applicable

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine consultations commonly include questions about medicines, diet, appetite, lifestyle, pain, sleep, bladder and bowel function, and include checking the tongue and wrist pulse.

What Happens at the First Visit?

Your initial consultation includes a detailed discussion of your health history and current concerns.

We may ask about pain, movement, sleep, digestion, stress, energy, menstrual cycle, previous injuries, medications, and other relevant health details. In Chinese medicine, we may also check your pulse and look at your tongue as part of the assessment.

Where appropriate, your first visit usually includes treatment.

Treatment may involve acupuncture, gentle bodywork, moxibustion, laser acupuncture, or other traditional East Asian approaches depending on your needs and preferences.

If You Are Nervous About Needles

Many people feel unsure about needles before their first acupuncture appointment.

That is completely normal.

Treatment can be very gentle, and we can talk through what you are comfortable with before beginning. Options may include:

• Very gentle acupuncture techniques
• Laser acupuncture
• Shiatsu-style acupressure and bodywork
• Other needle-free approaches where suitable

You are always welcome to say if something feels uncomfortable or if you would prefer a gentler approach.

After Your Treatment

After acupuncture, many people feel relaxed, calm, sleepy, or quietly energised. Responses vary from person to person. Better Health Channel notes that some people feel refreshed, while others feel sleepy, and occasionally symptoms may temporarily feel worse before improving.

After your appointment, it is usually best to:

• Drink some water
• Avoid rushing straight into heavy activity if you feel tired
• Eat normally
• Notice how your body responds over the next day or two
• Let us know if anything feels unusual or concerning

If you feel very sleepy after treatment, take a little time before driving.

Is Acupuncture Suitable for Me?

You do not need a referral to book an acupuncture appointment.

However, please let us know if you are pregnant, taking blood-thinning medication, have a bleeding disorder, have a pacemaker, have a serious medical condition, are undergoing cancer treatment, have a compromised immune system, or are unsure whether acupuncture is appropriate for your situation.

We advise people to tell their practitioner about important medical conditions, medicines, bleeding problems, blood thinners, heart disease, immune issues, and infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV/AIDS.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can often be used alongside conventional care. You should not stop or change prescribed medication without speaking to your doctor.

Book an Appointment

You are welcome to call us directly or contact us first to discuss whether acupuncture or Chinese medicine may be suitable for your situation.

Peter & Teresa Apte
Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioners
131 James Sea Drive, Green Point NSW 2251
0458 777 061
apteclinic@gmail.com