Acupuncture + Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture, the art of placing thin needles along energy (qi) meridians in the body, brings microcirculation into fascial systems, unblocks muscle tension, and allows for the free flow of the body’s immune function and attention to organ systems. All bodies have the innate ability to heal, and acupuncture assists the body in this self-healing process. Using small, painless needles inserted into points along meridians of energy flow called "qi," acupuncture regulates and unblocks the flow of qi in the body, assists in re-establishing microcirculation, and releases endorphins in the process. This system works to effectively reduce pain, regain mobility and decrease stress and anxiety.
Herbal formulas are used in conjunction with acupuncture treatments as an internal approach to health and wellbeing. Herbal formulas are often designed or chosen specifically for the constitution of every individual patient. What may work for someone else may not work for you! As a practitioner, I give every patient a full assessment based on their individual presentation, and adjust treatments according to you as an individual.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), an umbrella term that encompasses many modalities of treatment, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, moxibustion, qi gong, gua sha and tui na massage, has been utilized for a millennia as a means to promote and maintain wellness in our bodies. In combination, these therapies have been recognized to treat an array of illnesses and symptoms ranging from mental-emotional disorders, stress management and insomnia, to digestive disorders, autoimmune diseases, chronic pain and sports injury.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is utilized for such an array of ailments that there is really no limit to its usefulness. The basic tenets of eastern medicine assists the body in self-regulation and balances its internal and external environments.
what does a session look like?
Sessions are 90 minutes. After a series of diagnostic questions, any number of modalities, including acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, heat therapy, visceral manipulation or Chinese medical massage are utilized to address your concerns. If needed, a regminen of Chinese herbal medicine may be prescribed.
Our extended session time together provides you with more in-depth one-on-one care. Some sessions may be more interactive and introspective and some may be more restful, depending on your body’s needs that day.
In some treatments, somatic processing (processing emotions through the tissues of the body) may be applied in a session.
how long will I need to receive acupuncture?
This really depends on the issue at hand. A general rule of thumb is that if the condition is chronic, it will take more time. Acupuncture treatments are done anywhere from bi-weekly to monthly, depending on the individual needs of the person being treated. The body always heals on its own time! You may book a free consult call (below) to get a good idea of the frequency with which you may require treatment.
Does it Hurt?
Acupuncture needles should absolutely not hurt, as they are not intended to break the skin or draw blood. There may be an occasional ache or a sensation of nerve tingling. Most people find acupuncture to be generally very relaxing, and many fall asleep during a treatment. If you have a fear of needles, please let me know in advance, as there are many techniques that may be utilized in place of needles.
I heard you specialize in women’s health - what do you work with in particular?
Please see the Areas of Focus page to read more about how we may work with your particular diagnosis!