How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is a specialized form of therapy that is at least 2,500 years old.  Fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body to help normalize physiologic functions.  Acupuncture treatments help a person to access their own healing potential by removing obstacles to healing.  It relieves pain by  enhancing circulation and stimulating the production of endorphins,  reduces inflammation by helping to produce anti-inflammatory substances, calms the mind and boosts the mood by altering neurotransmitter activity.  For more information and links to studies, see this article.

Does acupuncture hurt?

The average diameter of an acupuncture needle is about one tenth the size of an injection needle.  While some people feel a tiny pinch when the acupuncture needles are inserted, many experience no sensation at all upon insertion.  Patients describe feelings of warmth, tingling, and heaviness in the areas where acupuncture needles are placed.  The treatments are relaxing, and many recipients drift off to sleep while the needles are in.

What happens during a session?

I will assess your constitutional imbalances through asking questions, looking at your tongue, and feeling your pulse, and then create an acupuncture treatment based on your Chinese medicine diagnosis.  Points are selected to help free up your energy flow at certain locations in the body, or in more systemic ways. Once you are resting comfortably on soft, clean linens atop a cozy heating pad with an infrared heat lamp for your feet, I turn on soothing music and leave you to rest for about 25 minutes.  All patients are given a bell to ring in case they need to be checked on during the treatment.

What conditions does acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture and herbal medicine are effective at addressing the following complaints:

• Preconception care, infertility, IVF support, miscarriage

• Pregnancy complaints such as morning sickness, breech baby, past due labor,

• Postpartum issues including lactation support, c-section recovery, depression, fatigue

• Menstrual issues including endometriosis, PCOS, amenorrhea, cramps, PMS

• Menopausal symptoms such as mood swings, hot flashes, night sweats

• Digestive issues such as IBS, Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, chronic constipation

• Autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis

• Chronic pain conditions such as migraines, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, CRPS

• Side effects of cancer treatments and pain from cancer

• Anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia

How many treatments will I need?

For acute issues such as a recent injury, I often recommend twice weekly treatments for 2-4 weeks, then re-evaluate.  If an issue is of an ongoing nature, such as cyclical migraines or fertility support, I recommend once weekly sessions for 4-6 weeks or until the issue is resolved.  Some folks continue to come weekly for wellness support, while others may just need maintenance care once or twice a month.

How should I prepare for my first treatment?

Please have a light meal or snack about an hour or two before your appointment time.  If you arrive on an empty stomach, the treatment might make you feel woozy.  Wear loose fitting clothing that can be rolled up to the elbows and knees. In consideration of those who are sensitive, please do not wear perfumes or strong scents.  Plan some time after your appointment for relaxation and integration if possible.

How safe is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a licensed professional who follows clean needle technique.  The California Acupuncture Board regulates practitioners in this state, and licenses must be renewed with continuing education credits required every two years.  Acupuncture needles come in sterile packaging and are single use only.  Acupuncture has fewer side effects than most common medications.  Occasional side effects include bruising or soreness at the site of needle insertion.

How can herbal medicine help me?

I like to think of herbal medicine as a “take home” treatment to support you between acupuncture sessions.  Chinese herbal formulas are a gentle, safe, and effective way to address issues such as dermatological complaints, menstrual issues, insomnia, digestive disorders, pain, and more.  I prescribe herbs as tablets or a custom blended tea.  No cooking or straining is necessary.

Is herbal medicine safe?

Most of the Chinese herbs that I prescribe are considered “food grade” and are gentle and safe for anyone to take.  These food grade herbs have traditionally been eaten as foods, simmered in soups that were fed to the whole family.  When stronger herbs are used, they are carefully combined with other milder herbs that moderate their action.  A thorough review of medications is made to check for any possible herb and drug interactions before creating an herbal prescription.

Do you bill insurance?

I do not submit bills to insurance, but if your plan has an acupuncture benefit, you may be able to submit the claim yourself for reimbursement.

What are your credentials?

I hold a Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine degree from the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in San Francisco, CA.  I am licensed by the state of California to practice acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.