Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin, sterile, one-time use needles into specified points located on the body to produce therapeutic effects.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, a vital substance called Qi (pronounced “chee”) flows through interconnected meridians(blood vessels) in the body. Qi, sometimes translated as "energy", more deeply equates to the oxygen, blood, and nutrients in our vessels that circulate through our bodies to nourish and replenish our system. Qi also means 'function'. When you hear acupuncturists talk about the Qi of an organ, we are talking about how well that organ system is functioning in the body. Some of the functions of the organs in Eastern medicine may differ slightly from their functions in Western medicine.
Pain, illness, and disease can occur when Qi flow is blocked, stuck, in excess, or deficient. From a Western Medical point of view, scientists and doctors have several different theories based on medical studies to explain how acupuncture works. Please read our FAQs to read more in depth about Acupuncture and modern medicine.
During your initial consultation, we will discuss your main reasons for seeking treatment, your treatment goals, and your health history. Afterward, we will conduct a physical evaluation, feel your pulses, and look at your tongue. All of this information helps us to formulate a (Chinese medicine) diagnosis and treatment plan. As part of your treatment we may offer nutritional advice and lifestyle recommendations to support your healing.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, a vital substance called Qi (pronounced “chee”) flows through interconnected meridians(blood vessels) in the body. Qi, sometimes translated as "energy", more deeply equates to the oxygen, blood, and nutrients in our vessels that circulate through our bodies to nourish and replenish our system. Qi also means 'function'. When you hear acupuncturists talk about the Qi of an organ, we are talking about how well that organ system is functioning in the body. Some of the functions of the organs in Eastern medicine may differ slightly from their functions in Western medicine.
Pain, illness, and disease can occur when Qi flow is blocked, stuck, in excess, or deficient. From a Western Medical point of view, scientists and doctors have several different theories based on medical studies to explain how acupuncture works. Please read our FAQs to read more in depth about Acupuncture and modern medicine.
During your initial consultation, we will discuss your main reasons for seeking treatment, your treatment goals, and your health history. Afterward, we will conduct a physical evaluation, feel your pulses, and look at your tongue. All of this information helps us to formulate a (Chinese medicine) diagnosis and treatment plan. As part of your treatment we may offer nutritional advice and lifestyle recommendations to support your healing.
Moxabustion
Moxa, also known as Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), is a dried herb that is rolled into tiny cones and burned over points on the body to introduce warmth and promote increased blood flow and energy to the area being treated. Moxa is great for treating coldness, dampness, chronic, and deficient conditions. Moxa cones are removed before they burn down to the level of the skin. Moxa can be used alone, but is generally used along side of acupuncture during a treatment.
Tui Na
Tui na is a therapeutic form of bodywork that is often used in conjunction with Acupuncture and Moxabustion. Tui na is often compared to Shiatsu and Acupressure massage therapy. It is great for working on musculoskeletal and joint pain, headaches, tension from stress, and insomnia.
Gua Sha
Gua Sha therapy uses a special tool, a rounded spoon, or a metal lid to make gentle, repetitive strokes usually on the shoulders and back to promote "sha", or small, red marks (ecchymosis) on the skin which typically fade within 2-7 days. Gua Sha is great for treating colds, flus, fevers, coughs, and muscular pain.
QiGong
QiGong consists of specific, slow, gentle movements and breathing exercises that help to calm, strengthen, heal, and revitalize the body. Sometimes acupuncturists will teach and prescribe some simple QiGong exercises to the patient as part of a treatment plan.