Your Visit
Whether it’s your first time trying acupuncture or you’re returning for ongoing care, knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and prepared.
Your First Visit
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![Te Tīeke acupuncture clinic waiting room in Wellington]()
Before You Arrive
If you book your appointment online, you’ll receive a new patient intake form to complete before your first appointment. If you book another way, please arrive a little early to allow time to complete the form.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing so sleeves and trouser legs can be easily rolled up. Depending on your treatment, you may be asked to remove some clothing or jewellery, but you will always be appropriately covered and kept warm.
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![Diana Hilgert providing personalised classical acupuncture treatment in Wellington]()
Getting to Know You
Your first consultation is an opportunity to talk through your health history, current concerns and anything else that may be relevant to your wellbeing.
Some questions may seem unrelated to your symptoms, but they help build a more complete picture of your health and inform an individual treatment approach.
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![Medical exam room with an examination bed, a desk with a chair, a bookshelf, a lamp, and medical supplies on a cabinet. The room has a window with brown blinds.]()
Your Treatment
Your pulses and tongue will be assessed, and gentle palpation of parts of the body may be used to gather information for your individual treatment plan. Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile, single-use needles placed at carefully selected points on the body. You’ll then rest with the needles in place for around 20 minutes, allowing your body time to relax and respond to treatment.
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![Te Tīeke classical acupuncture treatment room in Wellington]()
After Your Treatment
At the end of your appointment, recommendations will be made for future visits.
It's best to avoid strenuous activity and alcohol on the day of your treatment, allowing yourself some time to rest and absorb the benefits of your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows sleeves and trouser legs to be easily rolled up. Depending on your treatment, you may be asked to remove some clothing or jewellery. You will always be appropriately covered and kept warm.
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If you book your appointment online, you’ll receive a new patient intake and consent form to complete before your first appointment. If you book another way, please arrive a little early to allow time to complete the form.
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Acupuncture is generally not painful. Most people feel only a light sensation when the needles are inserted, often described as a brief pinch or mild pressure. Once the needles are in place, many people feel deeply relaxed or may not feel them at all. If a point being treated is uncomfortable, the needle will be adjusted or removed.
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Initial appointments usually last 40 to 60 minutes to allow time for consultation and treatment. Follow-up sessions last 30 to 40 minutes.
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This depends on your condition, how long you've had it and how your body responds to treatment. Some people notice improvement within a few sessions, while longer-standing or more complex conditions may require a longer course of treatment. Some people schedule regular appointments for well-bing maintenance. Your progress will be reviewed regularly and your treatment plan adjusted as needed.
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Yes. When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is very safe. Sterile, single-use needles are used and strict hygiene standards are followed. Side effects are rare and usually mild, such as slight bruising or temporary tiredness.
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Yes. Diana is an ACC-registered treatment provider for approved injury claims. If your claim is accepted, acupuncture treatment is generally covered. Guidance is also available to help you through the process if you're unsure about your eligibility.
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Please provide at least 24 hours' notice when cancelling an appointment. Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice may incur a $50 fee.
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