Acupuncture

Most people are very relieved to discover that the insertion of the needle is barely perceptible. Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are very thin and are inserted with care only several millimeters into the skin. A commonly reported effect is a euphoric and peaceful feeling that occurs almost instantaneously as the treatment begins. Some people report a tingling or itching sensation around the needles and a relaxed floating sensation throughout the entire body. These are all normal healing responses during treatment as the body begins to return to a state of balance.

When you schedule your first acupuncture session, you will be emailed the new patient intake form. This will allow you to reflect on some of the questions and allow more time for your treatment. The goal is to make you comfortable and feel supported while you are in my care. It’s important to me that you understand the treatment approach and have a positive first acupuncture experience.

The initial appointment includes a comprehensive intake/ dialogue about your personal health history with the focus upon your primary reason that you seek acupuncture. Questions will also include any major life events, current mental or emotional states, repetitive themes or patterns throughout life and overall sense of well - being as it relates to you and your place in the world.

Traditional pulse and tongue diagnosis will also be evaluated as they form an important connection to your health.

Once all necessary information is gathered, a comprehensive diagnosis that is unique to Chinese medicine is formed and a treatment plan is designed and explained to you.

Questions are always welcome at any time during treatment, as well as during the days and weeks between appointments.

Time frame: approximately 90 minutes +

The effects of one acupuncture treatment can last up to three days, often with cumulative positive relief over the course of 72 hours. Most people feel very relaxed and sometimes initially tired after treatment. A series of acupuncture treatments promotes the duration of transformation, as complete or considerable relief is promoted for most health concerns. However, every person is unique, and the healing process and time expectations may vary depending on the person and presenting condition. Most people report an overall increased sense of well-being and pain relief with treatments, and many schedule monthly maintainance programs because of their positive experiences with acupuncture treatments. It is important to mention that as the person is undergoing treatment and the acupuncture is strengthening the body, it is also clearing pathogens, stresses, and traumas that may have been held in the body for some time. Occasionally people experience what I call a temporary healing crisis. A cold, for example, may appear to get worse, but has a shortened duration as treatment has accelerated the healing process. An acute emotional release is also possible if stress or grief, for example, comes to the surface to be released and healed.

Moxabustion is a technique wherein heat from a burning cluster of mugwort is applied to acupuncture points in several ways, including wrapping the herb around an inserted needle. Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), when burned, penetrates into the meridians. Like acupuncture, moxa eliminates pathogens and boosts the immune system. This combination is excellent for increasing energy, raising blood cell and T cell counts, stopping uterine bleeding and treating chronic yeast problems. One of moxabustion's most unique functions is turning an inverted fetus to prepare for birth. People love the combination of acupuncture/moxabustion treatments because it deeply relaxes the nervous system and quickly relieves muscle pain and tension.

Gua sha and cupping both produce therapeutic effects by freeing lactic acid in muscles and tendons. After massage oil is placed on the indicated areas, Gua sha technique uses a porcelain spoon that is gently scraped on or along areas of pain. Similarly, cupping uses small glass jars that create a vacuum as they are placed on the body. I find both therapies very beneficial, particularly to relieve chronic pain when other therapies have failed to work.

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine has a unique formula to assist one to return to wholeness. All “diseases” have relationships to mind, body spirit. Please let me know if you have any questions. When necessary, it’s always advised to seek traditional medical treatment or diagnosis.