All new patients will need to make an initial appointment by calling the Glenview Healing Arts Center at 847-998-8860 and completing the new patient intake forms which can be found under the "forms" tab on this website. These forms can also be mailed, emailed or faxed to you by calling our office.

The initial appointment is 90 minutes in duration, comprised of a 60 minute consultation and a 30 minute acupuncture treatment. During this consultation Claudette Baker will discuss the patient's health history and reason for seeking acupuncture. An individual treatment plan will then be put in effect, consisting of acupuncture, and possibly herbs and supplements.

Acupuncture needles are very thin and most people do not experience pain when the needles are inserted. Sometimes there may be a slight pricking or tingling sensation but for the most part the treatment is both relaxing and painless. Needles are inserted for approximately 30 minutes and are twisted midway through the treatment to promote the patient's Qi or the body's natural energy.

What should I expect to do after my first appointment?

Typically, patients will receive acupuncture treatments on a weekly basis for approximately six weeks and then, depending on individual progress, every other week until the condition is treated. For continued optimal health it is recommended that patients continue with their acupuncture treatments on at least a monthly basis. Claudette Baker may also recommend a protocol of herbs and nutrients. As acupuncture and herbs work together, it is necessary that the patient take the herbs prescribed to them as instructed and continue to have regular acupuncture treatments.

Chinese herbs help the body regain its balance and vitality and enhances the circulation. The form of herbs used in this clinic are usually capsules, tablets or instant teas which are all easy to use.

As no two people or conditions are identical, each patient will be given a unique treatment plan to address their health issues to support ongoing physical well-being. Most patients will need to plan on 4-6 consecutive weekly treatments and then come back on a bi-weekly or monthly basis to continue to strengthen their state of health and well-being.

• Keep your weekly appointments. The acupuncture treatments have a cumulative effect and are much more effective if you are consistent during the course of treatment. It is necessary to assess the changes that occur from week to week, which is why the treatments may be slightly different each time. Missing an occasional week is not a problem, providing you continue on your herbs while away.
• Take herbs and supplements as directed. Chinese herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years with great success. The formulas and protocols are well thought out and are most successful if you follow my instructions. The herbs are re-assessed each week. They may need to be modified or changed during different times of the month or for acute illness or injury. Please contact me if you have any questions or difficulties with them. I would prefer that you not wait until your next scheduled appointment, as we may need to change the protocol if there is an issue.
• The success of your treatments are much greater if you take the diet and lifestyle recommendation seriously. I have been studying natural health since I was a teenager and have seen many fads come and go. The tried and true practices have very wonderful results when practiced on a daily basis. If there are many changes to be made, be patient with yourself. You do not need to make all of them in a week. I will help you to prioritize the changes and support you in your process.

   

What ailments and /or conditions can be effectively treated with acupuncture?

The World Health Organization has recognized acupuncture and Oriental medicine as effective for over 43 common ailments including allergies, arthritis, asthma, depression, hypertension, indigestion, infertility, menopause, migraine headaches, pain, PMS, and post-operative pain and nausea, to name just a few.

We carry a wide variety of herbs and supplements including: Bezwecken, Blue Poppy, Douglas Labs, Evergreen, Mayway, Metagenics, Minami, Natural Vitality, Pacific Biologic, Phion Ph Balance products, and TonShen/Life Rising.