Patient Guidelines Before Your First Treatment

Before Your Appointment

1. Avoid Painkillers
   Do not take pain medication on the day of your treatment unless absolutely necessary.
   Why it matters: Painkillers can mask your true symptoms, making it difficult for the doctor to accurately assess your condition and choose the right treatment.

2. Eat Properly
   Eat a light meal at least 2 hours before your appointment. Do not come on an empty stomach, and do not eat immediately before treatment.
   Why it matters: Coming hungry may cause dizziness or fatigue during treatment, while coming too full may lead to indigestion during acupuncture.

3. Avoid Caffeine
   Do not consume coffee, tea, energy drinks, or other caffeinated beverages before treatment.
   Why it matters: Caffeine alters heart rate and blood pressure. Since pulse diagnosis is a key part of your evaluation, caffeine can interfere with accurate diagnosis.

4. Avoid Alcohol & Recreational Substances
   Do not consume alcohol or recreational substances within 24 hours before treatment.
   Why it matters: These substances affect circulation, organ function, and overall body balance, which may reduce the safety and effectiveness of treatment.

5. Clothing
   Wear loose and comfortable clothing that allows access to arms, legs, and other treatment areas.
   Why it matters: Comfortable clothing helps you stay relaxed and allows your doctor to treat you more effectively.

6. Hydration
   Come well-hydrated, but avoid drinking excessive amounts of water immediately before the session.
   Why it matters: Proper hydration helps your body respond well to treatment, while overhydration may cause discomfort during the session.

7. Physical Activity
   Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy labor, or exhausting activity right before your appointment.
   Why it matters: Excessive exertion can destabilize your circulation and energy, reducing your body’s ability to benefit fully from treatment.

After Your Appointment

1. Keep the Area Dry
   Avoid contact with water (bathing, swimming, heavy sweating) on the treated areas for at least 3 hours after treatment.
   Why it matters: This helps minimize the risk of infection and protects the acupuncture points while they are still sensitive.

2. Rest and Recovery
   Plan a light schedule after your session. Do not overexert yourself physically or mentally.
   Why it matters: Your body may feel deeply relaxed or slightly fatigued after treatment, and rest allows the therapy to take full effect.

3. Monitor Your Response
   Take note of any changes in symptoms, energy, sleep, digestion, or mood after treatment.
   Why it matters: Tracking your response provides valuable information for your doctor to fine-tune future sessions.

Communication

Always inform your doctor of:

• Any medications you are taking

• Any new health conditions, infections, or recent surgeries

• Significant lifestyle changes or stressors

Why it matters: Honest and complete communication ensures your treatment remains safe, accurate, and personalized to your unique health needs.