"After three treatments I feel great. Before seeing you I went to our family doc and an orthopedists for my lower back spasms and elbow pain. Your exam was more thorough than the two of them put together. Thanks again." ~S. Willis, Emmett
For over a quarter of a century, Dr. Alderman has been providing Traditional Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture to thousands of patients in a relaxed, caring, family-like atmosphere. Patients immediately feel comfortable with Dr. Alderman's relaxed demeanor and keen ability to listen and fully understand your health concerns and health goals.
Your Initial Visit
Initial New Patient Appointments usually require one hour but could go longer depending on your health concerns. Your initial consultation might not include needle treatment, as only those patients suffering with extreme pain will be considered for the same day Acupuncture therapy. Depending on the complexity of the problem, this initial consultation may be devoted to a detailed inquiry to your symptoms, history and physical examination and review of the medical records. Additional diagnostic studies such as laboratory or radiological examinations may be requested or reviewed. Dr. Alderman likes to have the chance to thoroughly review any previously conducted laboratory or radiological and MRI findings, prior to your scheduled appointment. This evaluation helps him determine the full spectrum of your treatment options, to confirm preceding diagnostic impressions, and to decide if acupuncture is appropriate.
Dr. Alderman will also provide you with a Traditional Oriental Medical evaluation—a comprehensive evaluation consisting of “The 4 Examinations:” visual examination, audio-olfactive examination, inquiry, and palpation. The inquiry portion will include diet and lifestyle and familial and personal factors such as taste, color, seasonal preferences, preferences toward heat and cold, perspiration, stools and micturition, state of your head and body, chest, hearing and thirst. Your tongue, pulses, and ear will be closely examined in addition to a standard western physical examination.
Report of Findings
Following the initial interview and examination, you are welcome to return the next day, preferably, accompanied by your spouse or significant other, for the “Report of Findings.” At this time Dr. Alderman will review with you your health concerns, medical history, report his diagnosis based on his examination findings and a specific treatment plan will be discussed. In addition, you will discuss the fees for service and applicable insurance coverage. The “Report of Findings” usually takes approximately 20 minutes and there is no charge for this consultation. After your “Report of Findings” and if Dr. Alderman agrees that Acupuncture Therapy is the appropriate path for you, you will receive your first treatment.
What To Expect During Treatment Dr. Alderman's almost three decades of experience and his caring and professional bedside manner make treatments comfortable and relaxing for most patients. A typical treatment session lasts 30 to 45 minutes, with visits starting at weekly intervals or more often—and as improvement occurs, visits are spaced further apart.
During treatment you will lie on a comfortable massage-type table while as few as one needle but occasionally up to 30 needles are commonly inserted on your extremities, trunk, ear, or other selected points. These needles are then either manually manipulated, heated with an herb called moxa ( Artemisia vulgaris ), or gently stimulated with an electrical medical instrument, similar to a typical transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit. Some styles of treatment require fewer needles for shorter periods and do not use the electrical stimulation. Imbedded tacks are sometimes left in place for a few days, particularly when a patient’s schedule does not permit the standard recommended treatment frequency.
You may experience a mild euphoria and being pleasurably relaxed. Some patients can feel somewhat drowsy, and will be advised not to drive or operate machinery immediately after the treatment, although this is not the norm. You are also advised to avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy meals, alcohol intake, or sexual activity for up to four hours following treatment to improve the effectiveness of treatment.
And as always, Dr. Alderman will answer all your questions fully—before, during, and after treatment.
