Modalities & Approach
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice that uses thin, sterile needles to stimulate specific points on the body. Research has shown that this type of stimulation can restore balance and promote the body's innate healing abilities by influencing the nervous and immune system function. This time-tested therapy has been shown to effectively address a wide range of symptoms, from chronic pain and headaches to stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders. By encouraging the release of endorphins and improving circulation, acupuncture not only targets symptoms but works to address underlying imbalances that contribute to health issues. Many patients find that regular acupuncture treatments enhance their overall sense of well-being, boost energy levels, and strengthen their immune system, making it an excellent complement to conventional medical care or a gentle alternative for those seeking drug-free pain management and stress relief. Patients often find the sensation of receiving acupuncture to be pleasant and relaxing.
Learn more about how acupuncture works by visiting our FAQ.
Cupping, Gua Sha, Tuina & Related Techniques
Cupping, gua sha, and tuina are powerful manual therapies that work together to release tension, improve circulation, and restore energy flow. Cupping uses suction from glass or silicone cups to draw stagnant blood and toxins to the surface, effectively treating muscle pain, respiratory conditions, and stress while promoting lymphatic drainage. Gua sha involves scraping of the skin with a smooth tool to break up fascial adhesions and stimulate circulation, offering relief for chronic pain, headaches, and inflammation. Tuina, a sophisticated system of Chinese therapeutic massage, combines acupressure and energy work to address physical and emotional imbalances, and is particularly effective for musculoskeletal disorders, digestive issues, and stress management. These time-honored techniques provide comprehensive healing for both acute injuries and chronic conditions, promoting relaxation and pain relief.
We also offer Pediatric Tuina, a system of therapeutic massage designed especially for infants and young children using light pressure and specific techniques tailored to their delicate constitution and developing systems. This safe and effective technique can address digestive issues, sleep disturbances, respiratory conditions, and behavioral challenges. These techniques can be continued at home, offering parents a natural way to support their child's health and development between treatments.
Moxibustion, Heat Therapy, & Laser Therapy
Moxibustion (a.k.a. moxa) is another traditional therapeutic technique that involves burning a dried herb (mugwort) on or near specific points on the body to generate healing warmth that penetrates deeply into the body’s energy pathways. This subtle yet powerful treatment can strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, increase blood and lymph flow, and boost overall energy. Moxa can be a helpful technique in alleviating symptoms of chronic fatigue, joint pain, certain reproductive health concerns, and many other conditions. In our clinic, we use a state-of-the-art infrared “electric moxa” device that is specially designed to mimic the emission spectrum of burning mugwort, while avoiding the smoke and allowing for greater safety and control over how much heat is applied.
In addition, we also offer class 3B photobiomodulation laser therapy, an FDA-approved technique for the relief of minor pain and inflammation. This modality works by increasing blood flow to a local area, which can support the healing process. Laser therapy is gentle and non-invasive, and can be especially suitable for children and needle-sensitive adults.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine is a complex medical system that utilizes carefully selected combinations of herbs, roots, minerals, and other natural substances to treat symptoms, address the underlying causes of illness, and restore balance to the body. Chinese herbal formulas are precisely tailored to each individual's specific health patterns. These formulas, many with thousands of years of documented clinical efficacy, offer a targeted approach to healing that is similar to acupuncture, and the two modalities are often used together. One advantage of utilizing Chinese herbs is that formulas are taken regularly (often 1-3 times per day), and applying this frequent direction to the body between acupuncture treatments can accelerate healing. Chinese herbal formulas are typically taken orally (as pills, tinctures, or teas), or topically, and are known for having minimal side effects as compared to many pharmaceutical medications.
We offer Chinese herbal consultation as part of your acupuncture course of treatment. If you decide to try Chinese herbal medicine, herbs will be prescribed to you as part of your treatment and purchased separately for an additional cost.
Diet & Lifestyle Counseling
Chinese medical principles can be applied outside of the treatment room to accelerate healing and support each patient’s unique constitution. While our clinical sessions provide focused therapeutic intervention, the daily choices patients make between appointments significantly impact overall health and treatment outcomes. As part of each course of treatment, we may discuss personalized diet recommendations and eating habits, sleep hygiene, exercise goals, and stress management techniques with the aim of preventing illness and enhancing overall resilience. Because we know that making any kind of lifestyle change can be extremely challenging, our focus is on helping patients to refine their goals and organize any changes into incremental, actionable steps. Our recommendations are tailored to the season, the unique circumstances of each patient’s life, and their level of interest in lifestyle modifications. Through compassionate and collaborative dialogue, we aim to empower patients with the practical knowledge and tools required to set and achieve realistic wellness goals on their own terms.
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