David Cherry Acupuncture David D. Cherry O.M.D., L.Ac.  |   (916) 789-1007

Your First Visit

When you arrive for your first acupuncture appointment you will be asked 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, we will discuss your condition, and I will give you a traditional Asian exam, including taking your pulse in a very Chinese way, looking at your tongue, palpating (feeling) your abdomen and limbs for sensations of hot or cold, and examining the look and texture of your skin, nails, and hair, all of which are the basic diagnostic methods of Oriental medicine. All of these lead me to an understanding of the flow of Qi and blood in your body. The acupuncture points I choose will depend on your condition, but you can expect approximately 20 needles. Once the needles are inserted, I will leave you to lie comfortably for 25-30 minutes with the needles in place. Most people find acupuncture treatment profoundly relaxing, and it is not uncommon for patients to fall asleep during this time.