Frequently Asked Questions

  • Email or bring any relevant test results, scans, treatment plans to your consultation.

    • It is recommended that you eat something light at least 30 minutes prior to your appointment.

    • If you brush/scrape your tongue, please avoid doing this on the day of your consultation, as the tongue forms an important part of the Chinese Medicine diagnosis.

    • Please arrive 5-10 minutes before the commencement of your appointment to ensure that your consultation will run for the full allocated time. Additional time will not be offered if you arrive late to your appointment and 100% of the consultation fee will still be applied.

    • All new clients are required to complete the Initial Intake and Consent Form for any treatment appointment at least 12 hours prior to their scheduled appointment. If you have not completed the form prior to your appointment, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to complete the form, to ensure we can maximise the time for your treatment. ​​​

  • It’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing. Here are a few tips on what to consider:

    • Comfort is Key: Choose clothing that allows you to relax and move freely. This can include yoga pants, shorts, or loose-fitting tops.

    • Accessibility: Since acupuncture is often performed on specific areas of the body, consider wearing clothes that make it easy for the acupuncturist to access your arms, legs, or back. Layers can help if you feel cold during the treatment.

    • Footwear: Opt for comfortable shoes, such as sandals or slip-ons, that can be easily removed.

    • Avoid Heavy Fabrics: Steer clear of stiff or tight clothing that may restrict circulation or make you uncomfortable during the session.

    Following these guidelines will help ensure a positive and relaxing experience during your acupuncture treatment!

  • ​At the initial consultation, I will go through your intake form and ask you what your primary concern is. I will ask lots of questions and details about diet, lifestyle habits, sleeping patterns, appetite, digestion and bowel movements, menstrual cycle, stress reactions and food or other sensitivities (there is no such thing as TMI!). 

    To further identify, I will observe and note other health indicators such as the colour of the face, have a look at your tongue, the sound of the voice and the characteristics of the radial pulse of both wrists. It all helps to form a Chinese medical diagnosis. 

    The treatment commences once assessment and diagnosis are completed. I will discuss with you the treatment options and come up with a plan.

    The duration of the treatment and the type of techniques used will vary according to both the patient’s condition and the treatment principles.  Acupuncture is the most common technique used and other techniques may include moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, tui na and or the prescription of Chinese herbal formulas.  
    ​
    With your informed consent, I will apply acupuncture needles in areas specifically designed for your individual condition. I may ask how you are feeling after the needle is inserted. If you have a specific pain, for example, you may find the pain easing or disappearing altogether.  Most people don’t feel pain — the sensation is often described as a dull ache, tingling, heaviness, or warmth.  The number of needles depends on the condition. 

    Once the needles are in, I usually leave the room. This allows you time to relax and the treatment to have a greater effect.  The needles are often left in for approximately 25 – 45 minutes.  Many people feel deeply relaxed, fall asleep, or experience a meditative state.

    A heat lamp, eye pillow or soft music may be used to enhance comfort. 

  • You may feel relaxed (like after a massage or deep rest) or energised or mentally clear.  Occasionally, you might get slightly emotional, light-headed, or very tired — this is normal and temporary.​​

    Occasionally there may be a small bruise, mild soreness, or a feeling of heaviness at needle site.

  • To maximise the benefits of TCM therapies, follow these post-treatment recommendations:

    • Stay hydrated to help flush out toxins.

    • Avoid intense physical activity for a few hours.

    • Eat a nourishing meal to support your body’s healing.

    • Take note of how you feel.

    • Mild soreness at needle sites is rare but normal. If needed, a warm compress or light stretching can provide relief.

  • TCM works on momentum.  In order to receive the maximum expected benefit from your treatments, it is essential that you:

    • Stick to the prescribed treatment schedule

    • Implement recommended lifestyle and dietary changes

    • Avoid exacerbating activities

    • Get quality sleep

    • Drink plenty of pure water 6 to 8 glasses. Drinking coffee, tea, juice and soft drinks does not count.

  • The frequency of acupuncture treatments varies depending on your individual condition, treatment goals, and overall health. For acute issues, such as a recent injury, sessions might be recommended 2 times per week initially. For chronic conditions or long-term wellness, weekly or bi-weekly treatments are common. As symptoms improve, treatment frequency often reduces to maintenance sessions every few weeks or months. Your practitioner will tailor a treatment plan based on your specific needs and progress.

  • At Wild Heart Acupuncture, HICAPS is available (Bupa, Medibank and AHM currently) to claim your Private Health Rebates for acupuncture treatments. Just check with your health fund to ensure you are covered for acupuncture in your extras.  

  • At Wild Heart Acupuncture, we completely understand that life happens, and plans can change. If you are unable to attend your appointment, we kindly ask that you please notify us no later than 24 hours prior to your scheduled time. This allows us to offer your appointment to someone else who may be waiting for care.​ 

    Cancellation Fees

    • Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice will incur a 50% cancellation fee.

    • Missed appointments (no-shows) will incur 100% of the appointment fee.

    • Rescheduling is welcome at any time up to 24 hours before your appointment.​ 

    You can manage your booking online or get in touch directly by:

    ​In some cases, cancellation or no-show fees may be emailed to you and can be paid via bank transfer or at your next visit. Fee enforcement is at the discretion of the clinic owner.​ 

    We understand that genuine emergencies or unexpected situations may occur. If this happens, please reach out as soon as possible to discuss your circumstances — I'm here to help.​

    Thank you for your understanding and support.

  • I am located within Chiro Collab at 212 Main Road, Blackwood SA 5051.

  • Please allow extra time to find parking. There are a small amount of time restricted parking on the side streets. There is also parking at vacated Karkoo Nursery or Library across the street.