At a home-visit acupuncture appointment, Anthony comes to your home, talks through your health and goals, and then provides treatment on a portable treatment table, in an armchair or in bed, whichever is most comfortable. Your first appointment takes about 60 minutes, including the assessment. Follow-up appointments take about 45 minutes. You don’t need to prepare much beyond a quiet space and loose, comfortable clothing.
Who this is for
- People who find travelling to a clinic difficult, tiring or painful
- Older adults who prefer to be treated in familiar surroundings
- People recovering from illness, surgery or cancer treatment
- Adult children and carers arranging care for someone else
- Care coordinators looking for a reliable mobile provider
When this question usually comes up
Most people ask this just before they book their first visit. They want to know whether there’s enough room at home, whether a family member can be there, and what will actually happen. These are sensible questions, and the answers are usually simpler than people expect.
What happens during the visit
Before Anthony arrives
You’ll agree on a time that suits your routine. If you’re booking for someone else, it helps to have a list of their current medications and any recent medical letters ready.
The first conversation
The first appointment starts with a holistic health assessment. Anthony asks about the main concern, your medical history, your medications, your sleep, energy and daily routine, and what you’d like to be able to do more easily. This shapes the treatment plan.
Treatment
Anthony can bring a treatment table. If getting on and off a table isn’t comfortable, treatment can be given in an armchair or in bed. Fine, single-use sterile needles are used. Most people feel a light tap or a dull ache when a needle goes in, then very little. The needles usually stay in for around 20 to 30 minutes while you rest.
Afterwards
Anthony will explain what he found, what the plan is, and what to watch for over the next day or two. Some people feel relaxed or a little tired after treatment. That’s common.
How much space you need
There’s no need for a dedicated room. A space about the size of a single bed with room to walk around it is enough for the treatment table. A quiet room helps, with pets settled elsewhere and the TV off. For armchair or bed treatments, very little extra space is needed.
How acupuncture may help
Acupuncture is commonly used to help with symptoms such as musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, tension and poor sleep. It’s also used as supportive care alongside medical treatment. How much it helps varies from person to person. Anthony will tell you honestly whether he thinks acupuncture is a reasonable option for your situation, and how many sessions it makes sense to try before reviewing.
When to seek medical review as well
Acupuncture isn’t a replacement for medical care. See your GP or call 000 if you have:
- new or severe pain without a clear cause
- chest pain, shortness of breath or sudden weakness
- a fever with pain, or signs of infection
- unexplained weight loss, or changes in bladder or bowel control
If you’re under the care of a specialist, it’s a good idea to let them know you’re having acupuncture.
Frequently asked questions
Which areas do you visit?
Home visits are available across Sydney’s North Shore and Northern Beaches. Visits outside these areas may be possible by arrangement, and extra travel time and charges may apply. Call to check your address.
Can a family member stay during the appointment?
Yes. Many clients like having a family member or carer present, especially for the first visit.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed. If you have relevant medical letters or test results, it helps to have them on hand.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing that can be rolled up to the knees and elbows.
How much does a home visit cost?
See the Fees page for current pricing.
Talk to Anthony
If you’d like to know whether a home visit suits you or a family member, call or text Anthony on 0450 790 038. You can also read more about home-visit acupuncture in Sydney.