FAQs

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture uses the body’s different healing mechanisms to treat a wide variety of pain conditions and internal diseases. When a needle is inserted, it stimulates the release of powerful pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory substances from the brain. It also changes the way the brain responds to pain and can modify internal organ function to treat many complex diseases. In addition, acupuncture induces local effects, including relaxation of contracted muscles and an increase in blood circulation. Eastern medicine is a patient-centered system where you are seen and treated as an individual—a whole person. Each client is unique in terms of their symptoms, treatment objectives, and life experience. Each treatment is tailored for you and is mindfully focused on optimizing your health. During your visits, we also strategize together about lifestyle changes that will nourish your health day in and day out.

What does acupuncture feel like?

I am dedicated to making acupuncture a comfortable and beneficial experience. Many people are concerned that acupuncture needles will hurt. Most of my patients find acupuncture to be very relaxing and often fall asleep on the treatment table. Acupuncture needles are about as thin as a human hair and feel completely different from the thicker, hollow needles or the syringes doctors use to give shots or draw blood. Some patients notice a small pinch when an acupuncture needle is inserted, or a dull, heavy, or warm sensation for a while after insertion. These are quite common and disappear soon after the needles are inserted. If you do experience any discomfort let me know and I will adjust the treatment. My focus is to get you out of pain.

What types of bodywork services do you practice?

I offer Cupping Therapy, Gua Sha, and Electro-Acupuncture bodywork services. These forms of bodywork typically loosen tight muscles or knots with carefully placed needles or cups to increase blood flow to the body while reducing inflammation.

What is cupping therapy?

Cupping is an effective way to improve soft tissue when traditional pressure like massage may be aggravating. Cupping Therapy is an alternative, non-invasive treatment technique that uses special cups placed on the skin to encourage blood flow to damaged areas. This unique therapy is often recommended to patients who suffer from muscular pain, joint pain, skin problems, and/or respiratory disorders. I can discuss with you, in detail, what you can expect after the treatment and recommend how many sessions we believe will benefit you and your condition.

What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is an Asian healing art technique that involves stroking across the skin with a smooth edge. Traditionally, it would be the edge of a ceramic spoon; modern tools may look a bit different. I may include Gua Sha in a treatment plan to reduce inflammation, restore your immune system, or reduce acute or chronic pain. 

What is Electro-Acupuncture?

As in traditional acupuncture, needles are inserted into specific points along the body. These needles are then attached to a device that generates continuous electric pulses using small clips. This stimulation releases endogenous opiates called enkephalins which are amazing natural pain killers. They also have an antispasmodic effect that relaxes soft tissues. The ionic current increases micro-stimulation, reduces inflammation, and accelerates the healing process.

What should I expect at my first visit?

Most importantly you can expect to be welcomed and heard as a human being, not just as a set of symptoms. I will ask you detailed questions about your health history and your desired treatment outcomes. I will feel your pulse at the wrist, look at the color of your tongue, or press gently on your abdomen.

With all this information in mind, I will propose a treatment plan to you and begin your first treatment. You may receive acupuncture and/or bodywork. Throughout the visit, you will have the opportunity to ask me any questions you may have. Most of my patients leave after their first visit feeling very relaxed and positive about their treatment. I recommend you have a small snack beforehand. Wear comfortable clothes that can be rolled up past your knees and elbows. If your treatment requires your back or stomach to be exposed, I will drape you with a sheet for your comfort and privacy. If you have any further questions you’d like answered before you book your appointment, please feel free to contact me anytime.