Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been trusted for over 2,000 years to prevent, diagnose, and treat conditions by restoring your body’s balance and achieving harmony between internal organs and external elements. Apart from alleviating pain and treating common problems such as digestive issues and a weak immune system, TCM also boost fertility, support women’s health throughout their life cycles, and resolves skin woes like acne and eczema.
The benefits of TCM are endless, making it a popular practice that many have come to believe in and love over the years. If you are planning to visit a TCM clinic in Singapore but are unsure what to expect, here is what you need to know for your first appointment.
How to prepare for your first visit
Your first visit usually doesn’t require any special preparation. However, to make sure you have a comfortable experience, here are a few things you can keep in mind:
What to wear:
Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended, as it allows easy access to your arms and legs.
What to bring:
Recent medical records, current medications list, and symptom notes (if available).
What to avoid:
Brushing your tongue excessively, heavy meals, caffeine, and strenuous exercise 1-2 hours before your visit.
It’s also important to be proactive. Don’t hesitate to share your main health concerns, symptoms, previous treatments, and daily habits, such as sleep, digestion, and energy levels, with your TCM physician.
If you’re experiencing ongoing health concerns or are looking for a personalised, natural approach to care, schedule an appointment with our TCM physicians at Thomson Medical. Our TCM physicians will assess your condition and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What to expect at your first TCM clinic visit
Your first TCM appointment usually includes three key steps: consultation, diagnosis, and treatment. Each step helps your TCM physician understand your unique health needs so they can personalise a care plan for you.
Consultation
Like any other visit to a doctor, your first appointment at a TCM clinic will start off with a one-on-one consultation with your TCM physician. During this time, you will be asked to share your concerns and symptoms to help them understand your condition.
But what sets TCM apart from Western medicine is the way your physician evaluates you. They will assess how you look and sound, ask to examine your tongue, and check your pulse.
In TCM, your tongue is considered a reflection of your overall health and body, while your pulse’s strength and rhythm can offer valuable information about your energy.
Diagnosis
In TCM, illnesses occur as a result of an imbalance of energy in your body. Different kinds of imbalances create specific symptoms, so the examination and consultation will help your physician figure out what’s causing your condition.
Based on what your physician observes during your visit, they will then form a diagnosis called a “syndrome”.
For instance, if you complain of a migraine, your TCM physician may recognise that there is an imbalance of your body’s vitals, perhaps due to long-term stress and fatigue. This leads to blockages in Qi and Blood, which might be diagnosed as Stagnated Liver Energy.
Treatment
Your TCM physician will discuss a treatment plan with you before proceeding. Treatment methods may include acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal medications, tailored to your body’s constitution, symptoms, and specific needs.
Sometimes, your physician may combine different treatments for the best results. For example, moxibustion is often done alongside acupuncture to open up your Qi pathways, while herbal medicine may be prescribed to further address imbalances.
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What happens after your first TCM clinic visit?
Your TCM physician will advise you on what to do and avoid after your treatment. For example, it is recommended that you avoid strenuous exercise after acupuncture and drink plenty of water to support your body’s natural healing process.
Beyond immediate aftercare, your TCM physicians may also offer advice on lifestyle changes, such as foods you should include in your diet and how to protect certain parts of your body from the wind.
TCM offers many benefits for your health, from pain relief to improved fertility and overall wellness. If you're looking for a natural and holistic approach to health, schedule an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our specialists will help you achieve your health goals through a treatment plan that works for you.
FAQ
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people find acupuncture comfortable. The needles used are hair-thin, much finer than injection needles, so it usually feels like a light pinch.
Once the needles are in place, you may feel a dull ache, tingling, warmth, or heaviness around the point, which TCM calls "de qi" sensation. This means the treatment is working and the sensation will fade quickly. In short, acupuncture does not hurt as much as you think.
Do I need to remove my clothes for acupuncture?
You usually don't need to undress fully for acupuncture. Most acupuncture points are located on your arms, legs, back, and abdomen, which can be accessed by rolling up sleeves or pant legs.
If your physician needs to access points on your torso or back, they may ask you to change into a gown. To make the process easier, wear loose, comfortable clothing beforehand.
Can I combine TCM with my current Western medicine treatment?
Yes, TCM can often complement Western medicine in a safe way, and you can use both approaches together to address different aspects of your health.
However, it's important to inform your TCM physician about all medications and supplements you're taking, as some herbal medicines may interact with certain drugs.
Is TCM safe for pregnant women?
TCM can be safe and beneficial during pregnancy when used under medical supervision. In fact, many women seek TCM support for pregnancy issues like morning sickness, fatigue, back pain, and preparing for labour.
However, certain acupuncture points and herbal formulas are not recommended during pregnancy. To ensure your safety, always inform your TCM physician if you are pregnant or trying to conceive so they can personalise your treatment plan.
Are there any side effects from herbal medicine?
TCM herbal medicine is generally safe, especially when your TCM physician prescribes it and you follow their instructions.
In some cases, you may experience mild digestive discomfort, changes in bowel movements, or an increase in symptoms when your body adjusts. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. That’s why it’s always important to inform your physician if you have any existing allergies, medications, or health conditions. If you experience unexpected reactions, contact your TCM physician immediately.
How do I know if TCM is right for my condition?
TCM can help address a wide range of conditions, from pain and digestive issues to fertility concerns, stress, and chronic illnesses.
It's also effective for conditions that haven't responded well to other treatments or when you're seeking a holistic, root-cause approach.
The best way to know is to consult a TCM physician who can assess your condition, explain how TCM might help, and discuss realistic expectations.
Physician Seah Ai Wei
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Thomson Chinese Medicine (TCM United Square)
English, Mandarin
Alliance MediNet
