Faq

How does acupuncture work, from an energetic standpoint?

Energy flows through the body in channels, much like the flow of a river. If there is stagnation in these channels, the flow of energy will be impeded, like a river that has been dammed up by debris. Acupuncture helps to free up the flow of these channels so that healthy energy can easily reach all areas of the body.

How does acupuncture work, from a scientific standpoint?

Acupuncture has been shown to regulate the entire nervous system by activating the parasympathetic response and allowing the patient to relax. Many studies have shown that acupuncture can affect various aspects of the central nervous system, including heart rate/HRV, blood pressure, pupil size, muscle response, skin temperature, and skin conductance. There is also evidence that acupuncture activates specific brain regions, balances the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and stimulates neurogenesis.

Does it hurt?

My goal is always to alleviate pain, not cause it. Many patients tell me they cannot feel the needles at all. That said, there are hundreds of acupuncture points on the body and some can be momentarily uncomfortable, depending on a myriad of factors, including the energy present at the point, the constitution of the patient, and the way the current imbalance is manifesting. Through our dialogue prior to the treatment we will determine which modality is right for you. I specialize in treating highly sensitive people, and many treatments may not require needles at all. I am also trained in Chinese deep needling styles and trigger point therapy, representing a more visceral approach. I will always discuss the benefits and pain level expectation with each patient, no matter the treatment. You are an active participant in the healing process, and your best interest and comfort level will always be foremost when determining the treatment plan.

How big are the needles?

The needles are hair thin; about 40 of them can fit in a typical hypodermic needle.

Is acupuncture dangerous?

In the hands of a trained professional, acupuncture is very safe. Side-effects are few and infrequent. Most patients report an improved sense of well-being, both during and after treatment.

Is acupuncture safe for kids?

Yes, though often children are so energetically sensitive that a more subtle technique, outside of needles, works more effectively. Kids love teishin treatments, moxa, gua sha, massage, qigong, and anything that helps them connect to their senses and their natural ability to feel the flow of qi (energy). Needles are safe for any age, but can be scary for younger patients. I find that other treatment modalities are just as beneficial until kids are ready to make the decision for themselves to receive needles.

What is a teishin?

A teishin is a Japanese acupuncture tool that is used in exactly the same way as a needle, except it has a blunt tip and doesn’t puncture the skin. It is a more subtle tool than a needle because it is used to contact the energetic body directly, without breaking the skin barrier (or sometimes without even touching the body). I favor the teishin for highly sensitive patients and anyone who is apprehensive of needles. I also find that, in certain types of treatments, it is actually more effective than a needle.

What other non-needle treatments are available?

I am trained in tui-na (Chinese medical massage), as well as shiatsu, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, medical qigong, and herbal therapies. I also use tuning forks and singing bowls in some treatments. I love combining therapies in a treatment to find the perfect balance for each patient.

What kinds of conditions can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture is famous for being excellent at treating pain, but that is only one of its many strengths. As a holistic medicine, acupuncture is well-suited to treat any systemic problem, including auto-immune and chronic conditions. This may include common conditions such as migraines, cluster headaches, digestive disorders, infertility, and menstrual abnormalities. Acupuncture is also excellent at treating mental and mood/emotional disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, etc. An acupuncture treatment brings the body and mind into better alignment by treating the whole being. In fact, body and mind are not seen as separate in Chinese medicine, but as aspects of a unified whole.

Do you take insurance?

I do not currently bill insurance, but I am happy to provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance company.

What happens in a typical acupuncture session?

In a typical appointment the patient will undergo an in-depth interview prior to treatment that explores all aspects of health. This allows the practitioner to develop a holistic picture of the patient and the origin of the imbalance. A good acupuncturist is an ally in your journey to health, and the patient is at all times encouraged to maintain their agency in the treatment plan. Once a plan has been agreed upon, the practitioner selects a prescription of acu-points, energetically dynamic points on the body. These points are found along energetic pathways, called channels, that connect to internal organs and flow throughout the body, along with blood vessels, nerves, and lymph. It is the role of the acupuncturist to determine where the imbalance has occurred and create a bespoke prescription of acu-points for that person in that moment to bring them back to balance. The points are then stimulated in a number of ways, the most famous of which is with hair-thin needles. Learn more here.

Acupuncture