What is Acupuncture?

Several thousand years ago, East Asian practitioners discovered that the body forms disharmonies as a result of the various physical and mental stresses of life. Oriental medical theory explains these disharmonies as an imbalance of opposing forces called yin and yang. This imbalance disrupts the movement of the body's vital energy (qi) along the meridian pathways, which are channels through which the body's energy is thought to flow. Acupuncture restores the smooth flow of qi. By inserting and manipulating needles at specific points on the body, I am able to return the body to its natural balance and promote the body's ability to heal itself.

What Does Acupuncture Feel Like?

Many first-time patients are concerned that acupuncture needles will hurt. They won't. Acupuncture uses hair-thin, flexible needles that you will hardly feel when inserted. When the needle is gently stimulated, it may produce a unique sensation that Oriental medicine calls de qi. Patients often describe de qi as a heavy, achy pressure, or spreading, traveling feeling. You may also feel an "electrical" sensation moving down the meridian pathways, though this is less common. Most patients find acupuncture deeply satisfying and leave the treatment feeling relaxed both mentally and physically.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative, so more than one treatment is necessary. For acute conditions you can expect to have 6 to 8 treatments, but you will usually begin to feel relief after just the first few. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond, depending on the type, severity, and duration of the condition. Preventative treatments and treatments for general well-being may also be scheduled on an as-needed basis.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Yes. Acupuncture is used by millions of Americans every year. Acupuncturists are required to undergo extensive education, including detailed study of human anatomy and training in Clean Needle Technique. Kristen passed comprehensive national board examinations administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and is licensed by the state. As required by law, Kristen uses pre-sterilized, disposable, single-use needles to ensure your complete safety.

Your First Visit

When you arrive for your first acupuncture appointment Kristen will ask you to complete a comprehensive intake form. The acupuncture intake form asks questions about your current state of health, past illnesses, and family history. These questions are important because the holistic approach of Oriental medicine takes everything into account. Your current symptoms may not seem related to past health issues, but our bodies are complex landscapes and everything that happens to them leaves its mark. After reviewing your intake form and discussing your condition, Kristen will examine your pulse and tongue, which are two of the basic diagnostic methods of Oriental medicine. Once the needles are inserted, Kristen will leave you to lie comfortably for 30-45 minutes with the needles in place. Many people find acupuncture treatment deeply relaxing, and it is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep during this time.

What Should I Wear?

More than 90% of the treatment points used are from your elbows down and knees down. Kristen suggests wearing comfortable, loose-fitted clothing. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the office.

What Can Acupuncture Treat?

Acupuncture works by activating the body's own ability to heal, so it can be beneficial for many health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented many symptoms, diseases, and conditions that have been shown in controlled clinical trials to be effectively treated with acupuncture. Below are some common conditions Kristen can treat, but please feel free to contact Kristen about your specific health condition. Pain

• Sports injuries
• Muscle pain
• Back, neck and shoulder pain
• Leg, ankle and foot pain
• Arm, wrist and hand pain
• Knee pain
• Hip pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tennis Elbow
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Jaw pain (TMJ)
• Dental pain
• Sciatica
• Arthritis
• Tendonitis
• Myofascial pain syndrome
• Headaches and migraines
• Postoperative pain

No Show / Late Cancellation Policy

We require at least 48 hours advanced notice for a New Patient cancellation of your scheduled appointment. Missed appointments without notification will result in a $65.00 missed appointment fee.

A “no show” is missing a scheduled appointment. A “late cancellation” is canceling an appointment without calling us to cancel 24 hours in advance of a scheduled appointment.

We understand that situations such as medical emergencies occasionally arise when an appointment cannot be kept and adequate notice is not possible. These situations will be considered on a case by case basis.

A charge of $35 will be assessed for each follow-up appointment no show or late cancellation if less than 24 hours notice is given. A charge of $25 will be assessed for a returned check.

Inclement Weather/Snow Policy

We follow the Concord School District. If Concord School District is delayed, our office will open at 10:30am. Anyone with an appointment before 10:30am will be re-scheduled. If Concord School District is closed, our office is closed. You will be contacted to re-schedule your appointment to an alternate day.

Please contact us with any questions.
(603) 456-8294
kristen@trendacupuncture.com

Is Trend a Fragrance Free Space?

We share the air, please keep it healthy and fragrance-free. Scented products can make some people sick, especially those with fragrance sensitivities, asthma, allergies and other respiratory ailments. Please use unscented personal care products when visiting Trend.