In a first consultation, to make a diagnosis, the acupuncturist has a conversation with the patient about their general state of health, not only asking them about the specific illness for which they come to the consultation, but also taking an interest in their condition. emotional. Additionally, he takes her pulses on her wrists and checks the color of her tongue.
In acupuncture, the insertion, and rotation (to tone or disperse energy), of needles produces a slight pinching or tingling sensation, not actually pain. The depth to which the needles are inserted is usually between 1 and 2 centimeters.
In this therapy, moxas are also often used, elements generally shaped like a cigar and usually made with mugwort. The moxas are burned and brought closer to the chosen points, providing heat to stimulate energy. Suction cups, a type of round glass cups that suck air manually or by introducing a flame, can also be applied to these points. They are used in points where there is stagnation of blood, energy or fluids. There are acupuncturists who place beads, seeds or tiny needles with an adhesive on a point, often on the ears, to maintain pressure for a few days and achieve the desired therapeutic benefit.
