What to Expect
What to Expect at Your Acupuncture Visit
If you’re new to acupuncture, it’s natural to have questions about what the experience will be like. At Solasta Acupuncture & Wellbeing, each visit is designed to be calm, thoughtful, and personalized.
Your care is guided by Dr. Valerie Grau, MD, combining modern medical insight with the traditional healing practice of acupuncture to support whole-body wellness.
During your appointment, Dr. Grau will take time to understand your health history, current concerns, and goals. Treatment is tailored to your individual needs and designed to support your body’s natural ability to restore balance.
Many patients find acupuncture treatments deeply relaxing and leave feeling calm, refreshed, and supported.
Your First Visit
Your first appointment includes a comprehensive conversation about your health history, symptoms, lifestyle, and wellness goals.
This evaluation helps guide a personalized treatment approach designed specifically for your needs.
Your Treatment
Acupuncture involves the gentle placement of very thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body. These points help support circulation, regulate the nervous system, and encourage the body’s natural healing processes.
Once the needles are placed, patients rest comfortably while the treatment works.
After Your Appointment
Many patients leave acupuncture sessions feeling relaxed and balanced. Some people notice improvements shortly after treatment, while others experience gradual progress over several visits.
Dr. Grau will recommend a treatment plan that supports your individual health goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are extremely thin — much thinner than needles used for injections or blood draws. Most patients feel little to no discomfort. Some may notice mild sensations such as warmth, tingling, or heaviness near the acupuncture points, which are normal responses to treatment.
How long does an acupuncture session last?
Initial appointments are typically longer to allow time for a full evaluation and treatment. Follow-up visits generally last about one hour, with shorter sessions available for relaxation-focused care.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments varies depending on your health concerns and goals. Some patients seek acupuncture for short-term issues, while others choose periodic treatments as part of their long-term wellness routine.
Is acupuncture safe?
When performed by a trained practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture is considered a safe and well-established treatment.
What conditions can acupuncture help?
Acupuncture may help support relief from chronic pain, stress and anxiety, digestive concerns, hormonal imbalance, headaches, sleep issues, and overall wellness support.
Do I need to prepare for my acupuncture appointment?
It’s best to arrive having eaten a light meal and wearing comfortable clothing. Avoid coming to your appointment on an empty stomach, and try to stay well hydrated beforehand. If you have recent medical records, test results, or a list of medications, bringing that information can also help guide your treatment.