Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy. Acupuncture is the insertion of hair-thin, sterile metal needles into the skin at specific points on the body for the purpose of pain relief and treatment of various other ailments by balancing energy flow.

My scope of practice includes acupressure moxibustion heat therapy, electrical therapy, NAET for allergy, enzyme therapy, emotion release technology, checking of pH level, checking of adrenal level and herbal prescription. TBM, or total body modification, is a non-needle modality using muscle testing and reflex points to promote neural balance.

At the core of this ancient medicine is the philosophy that Qi (pronounced “chee”), or Life Energy, flows throughout the body. Qi helps to animate the body and protect it from illness, pain, and disease. A person’s health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi.

Many things influence the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, diet, accidents or excessive activity can lead to a blockage or imbalance of Qi.

Normally, when this imbalance occurs, the body naturally bounces back, returning to a balanced state of health and well-being. When the disruption to Qi is prolonged or excessive, or if the body is in a weakened state, then illness, pain or disease can set in.

There are 12 pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.

The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than smaller ones. Most patients will plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes. Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors: your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem and the quality and quantity of your Qi.

You may experience a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or dull ache where the acupuncture needle has been inserted. Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle. This is called the “Qi sensation”. All these reactions are good and a sign that the treatment is working. After treatment, you may feel energized or may experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.

• Come with any questions you have- we’re here to help you.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
• Don’t eat large meals just before or after your visit.
• Refrain from overexertion, working out, drugs or alcohol for up to 6 hours after the visit.
• Avoid stressful situations. Make time to relax, and be sure to get plenty of rest.
• Between visits, take notes of any changes that may have occurred.

The sensation caused by an acupuncture needle varies. Some people feel little pain as the needles are inserted, but most people feel no pain at all. The needles are tiny, just a little larger than a cat’s whisker or a human hair.

Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects except a feeling of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.

Herbs can be a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They are used to strengthen, build and support the body or to clear off excess problems like cold, fever, or acute pain.

Yes insurance will cover acupuncture, but only specific insurance. Please check the insurance page site for more information.