Your First Visit
What to Expect
Starting acupuncture for the first time? Here’s what your visit to Point Therapy actually involves, step by step.
Before you arrive
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing where possible. We may need access to the area we’re treating (back, legs, shoulders).
• Eat a light meal beforehand. Treatment on an empty stomach can sometimes leave you feeling light-headed.
• Bring or email any relevant scan results, GP referrals or a list of current medications, if you have them. It helps us build a fuller picture.
• Plan for your first appointment to run longer than a standard follow-up, to allow time for a full assessment.
During your first appointment
1. A thorough intake. Your practitioner will talk through what’s brought you in, your symptoms, how long they’ve been going on, your general health history, and what you’re hoping to get out of treatment. This is also your chance to ask questions.
2. A physical assessment. Depending on your concern, this may include checking posture, movement, and the affected area, so treatment is directed at what’s actually going on rather than a generic approach.
3. Your first treatment. Your practitioner will explain what they’re recommending and why before starting. Treatment may involve one technique or a combination, for example, acupuncture alongside massage, cupping, or dry needling as part of a broader treatment plan.
4. A plan going forward. Before you leave, you’ll have a general sense of how many sessions might be recommended and what to expect between appointments.
What treatment can feel like
• Acupuncture: Needles used are very fine, most people describe a light tap, a dull ache, or a mild heaviness around the point, rather than sharp pain.
• Dry needling: Can produce a brief muscle twitch or ache, usually short-lived.
• Electroacupuncture: A gentle pulsing sensation as a mild current passes between needles.
• Cupping: A pulling or tight sensation on the skin. It’s common to have some temporary circular marks afterward, which usually fade within a few days.
• Shockwave therapy: A firm tapping or pulsing sensation over the treated area, which can feel intense but is generally well tolerated.
• Remedial massage: Pressure is adjusted to your comfort level throughout, always tell your practitioner if something feels like too much.
Everyone experiences treatment a little differently, and your practitioner will always check in with you and adjust as needed.
After your session
Most people return to normal activity straight away. Some feel immediately looser or more relaxed; others notice changes over the following day or two as the body responds. Mild tiredness, light soreness, or marks from cupping are common and usually settle on their own. Your practitioner will let you know if there’s anything specific to watch for based on your treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends entirely on what you’re being treated for and how you respond. Some people notice a difference after one or two sessions; others, particularly for longer-standing issues, are on a plan that runs over several weeks. Your practitioner will talk you through a realistic plan after your first assessment, and you’re free to ask about progress at any point.
