+ How does acupuncture work?
From an Eastern perspective, acupuncture points correspond to distinct meridians of energy (or Qi) flowing through your body. A symptom or disease arises from a blockage in these meridians and the insertion of an acupuncture needle can help to restore the flow and promote healing. In biomedical terms, acupuncture stimulates and affects every major system in the body including the Immune, Cardiovascular, Digestive, Endocrine, Respiratory and Nervous systems. When strategically placed in certain regions of the body, the needles send signals to the brain to release certain chemicals and/or hormones that will relieve pain, reduce inflammation and restore homeostasis.
+ What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture can treat a variety of different conditions. The short list includes insomnia, depression, anxiety, stress, digestive disorders, immune dysfunction, menstrual irregularity, fertility, thyroid and adrenal disorders, joint pain, respiratory conditions, the common cold, side effects from chemotherapy, addiction, respiratory conditions, headaches and arthritis. Yes, that’s the short list! If you're wondering if you might benefit from treatments, please get in touch.
+ Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. When practiced by a licensed practitioner, Acupuncture is extremely safe. With nearly 10 years of clinical and academic training, including a strong foundation in western anatomy, physiology and pathology, my treatments are both safe and effective. The needles I use are sterile, disposable, and surgical stainless steel. Your well-being and safety is at the heart of everything I do.
+ Does acupuncture hurt?
I insert needles as gently and painlessly as possible. Once the needles are in you may experience a few moments of slight heaviness, tingling, numbness or itchiness around the area – this is completely normal and simply a sign of the body at work. Acupuncture can feel extremely relaxing and some patients will even doze off during the treatment.
+ How should I prepare for my first treatment?
Once you have made an appointment, please complete my intake form prior to arrival in order to maximize time for treatment. It’s a good idea to wear loose, comfortable clothing to your sessions. Have a small snack about thirty minutes before arriving and try to refrain from exercise for 2 hours before and after your visit.
+ What should I expect for my first treatment?
First-time visits include a thorough health history and a review of your current condition, physical exam and acupuncture session. The initial visit will take approximately 90 minutes while subsequent appointments may take an hour to 75 minutes.
+ What happens during an acupuncture session?
After discussing your condition and gathering some necessary information, I will take your radial pulse and look at your tongue. The condition of your pulse and tongue allows me to make an informed diagnosis so I can design the best possible treatment for you. I will then insert a few disposable needles just under the skin – making sure you remain as comfortable and relaxed as possible. The needles will remain in place for half-an-hour while you rest on a warm massage table in a dimly lit room.
+ Will you do anything in addition to the acupuncture?
I may incorporate some additional techniques such as cupping, moxibustion, gua sha, orthopedic massage, heat therapy, nutritional and lifestyle counseling and therapeutic exercises. I will be sure to thoroughly explain each modality and why it might be beneficial for you so you can decide if you'd like to try it.
+ When will it start to work?
You may start to feel the benefits after the first treatment. Typically, conditions that are more chronic and stubborn take longer to treat. If you have been struggling with your symptoms for awhile, I ask that you commit to at least 6 sessions so we can get a sense of how best you will respond.
+ What is Chinese Medicine?
Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive system of healthcare that has been practiced for more than 2,500 years. It effectively targets the root cause of disease, providing lasting effects and ongoing relief.