FAQ's

Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice that has been used for over 2,500 years to treat a wide variety of health conditions and promote overall wellness. Originating in China, acupuncture is rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and has evolved into a globally recognized and respected form of therapy. Its techniques were developed through careful observation of the body and its natural processes, understanding how certain points on the body can be stimulated to promote healing.

At its core, acupuncture involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. These points are strategically located along the body’s meridian lines, which correspond with different organs and systems. By placing needles at these precise locations, acupuncture encourages the body to engage its natural healing abilities and restore balance to various bodily functions, such as circulation, immune response, digestion, and hormonal regulation.

Acupuncture is used to treat a broad range of health issues, from chronic pain and injury recovery to digestive problems, stress, and even insomnia. It works by stimulating the body’s nervous system, which in turn promotes the release of endorphins and other natural chemicals that help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and boost the body’s overall ability to heal itself.

One of the reasons acupuncture is effective for such a wide variety of conditions is its ability to address both symptoms and underlying causes of illness. For example, acupuncture can help alleviate the discomfort associated with chronic pain while also supporting the body’s healing process by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. It can also help address emotional issues like anxiety, stress, and depression by encouraging relaxation and improving the body's ability to regulate mood.

Acupuncture is not just a treatment for pain or illness; it is also a powerful tool for enhancing general well-being. Many people seek acupuncture as a way to promote balance in their body and mind, increase energy, and maintain long-term health. It is a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of the body’s systems and aims to create harmony between them.

In addition to acupuncture, I also offer complementary therapies such as cupping, guasha, electro-acupuncture, moxibustion, and tuning fork therapy. These treatments can be used alongside acupuncture or on their own, depending on your specific needs and preferences.

My short answer to anyone asking can acupuncture help? Is almost always yes!  

Below are a few examples of some of the many ailments acupuncture/TCM can help with:

Fear not! In addition to or instead of using needles, I offer a range of complementary therapies that can also offer a multitude of benefits.

Cupping: Uses glass cups to create suction on the skin. A flame is briefly applied inside the cup to heat the air, which creates a vacuum when placed on the skin. This suction draws the skin and underlying tissue into the cup, promoting blood circulation, relieving muscle tension, and helping to alleviate pain and inflammation. Fire cupping is often used to treat conditions like back pain, tight muscles, and respiratory issues.

Tuning Fork Therapy: Uses vibrational sound to promote healing and balance in the body. Tuning forks are activated and gently applied to specific points on the body, where their sound vibrations help to release tension, improve circulation, and stimulate energy flow. This therapy is often used to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and support overall well-being by harmonizing the body's energy and encouraging healing at a cellular level.

Lanshin Massager by ACERA: This is one of my most requested tools! Made of porcelain, and glazed with crushed tourmaline crystal, the Lanshin Massager uses internationally patented technology to deliver a deeply soothing massage with Far-Infrared (FIR) heat energy. 

Gua sha: Involves scraping a smooth tool, typically made of stone or metal, across the skin in gentle strokes. The technique is used to release tension, improve blood circulation, and promote healing. Guasha is often applied to areas with muscle stiffness, pain, or inflammation, and is commonly used for conditions like headaches, neck pain, and respiratory issues.

Moxibustion: Involves burning dried mugwort (a plant) near specific acupuncture points on the body. The heat from the burning herb is used to warm and stimulate the acupuncture points, promoting circulation, relieving pain, and supporting the body’s healing processes. Moxibustion is often used to address conditions such as muscle pain, digestive issues, and to strengthen the immune system. It can be performed with or without direct contact on the skin, depending on the treatment method.

Experience a Peaceful Acu Nap

An acu nap is a unique and restorative experience where you may gently drift into a peaceful sleep during your acupuncture session. Many patients find that they achieve the best sleep of their lives during an acu nap. As the carefully placed needles work their magic, you’ll relax deeply, letting go of stress and tension. When you awaken, you’ll feel incredibly refreshed and rejuvenated, ready to take on the day with a sense of calm and well-being. Discover the profound relaxation and healing benefits of an acu nap.

Unlike many acupuncturists who may see multiple patients an hour, I prioritize individualized care by seeing only one patient at a time. This approach ensures that my patients receive my undivided attention, allowing for a more personalized and comprehensive treatment experience.

By dedicating my attention to one patient, I can incorporate various adjunct therapies alongside acupuncture, such as Shiatsu, cupping, moxibustion, and tuning fork therapy. This holistic approach ensures that each session is tailored specifically to your health goals, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment and promoting overall well-being.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), everything in the body is interconnected. This holistic approach views each person as a whole being, not just a collection of isolated symptoms or body parts. Understanding the overall state of health requires a comprehensive picture of physical, emotional, and environmental factors.

This is why acupuncturists ask questions that may seem unusual or unrelated to your primary concern. For example, questions about sleep patterns, digestion, emotional well-being, and even your preferences for certain foods help identify imbalances in the body. These details provide critical insights into your overall health, enabling the acupuncturist to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your issues, rather than just the symptoms.

Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on specific body parts or symptoms, TCM aims to restore balance and harmony within the entire system. By asking these seemingly odd questions, acupuncturists gather valuable information to treat you as a whole person, promoting true healing and long-term well-being.

A TDP lamp, also known as a mineral lamp or far-infrared lamp, is a therapeutic device commonly used during acupuncture visits. TDP stands for "Teding Diancibo Pu," which translates to "special electromagnetic spectrum" lamp. This lamp is equipped with a mineral plate that, when heated, emits far-infrared energy and a unique spectrum of electromagnetic waves.

Benefits of Using a TDP Lamp:

During an acupuncture session, the TDP lamp is often placed over specific areas of the body to complement the effects of acupuncture needles. The combined therapies work synergistically to enhance healing, provide deeper relaxation, and improve overall treatment outcomes.

Your first visit is an important step in your healing journey, and it’s designed to ensure you receive personalized and comprehensive care. Here’s what you can expect: