What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medicine, first practiced in China over 2000 years ago. It is based upon the concept of Qi (pronounced "Chee") or vital life energy that flows through the body in an interconnecting web of pathways called meridians. When the normal flow of Qi is blocked or is deficient, health is compromised and illness may result.

How does Acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is designed to unblock stagnant Qi and revive the deficient flow of Qi to restore the body’s natural balance. This is accomplished through the gentle insertion of hair-thin needles into the skin at key points along the meridians.

What will I feel?
Because each needle is very fine, most people report feeling little or no discomfort; in some cases, a stronger sensation is desirable and encouraged. A feeling of momentary heaviness or slight tingling often results in a state of deep relaxation.

What happens at my first session?
At your initial visit, which can take up to 90 minutes, we will discuss in depth your chief medical concern as well as other factors, including digestion, mood, sleep, appetite, & energy. You will be asked to fill out a health history survey. After examining your tongue and pulse, and then palpating your abdomen, an individualized treatment plan will be formed. You will also receive a short acupuncture treatment at your first session.

Only sterile, single use disposable needles are used.

Will I feel different right away?
How many treatments will I need?
Many people feel a positive change after the first treatment.
The number of treatments one needs depends on many things, including how long the problem has existed and how your body responds to treatment. Progress toward your health goal is assessed
at each visit.

What Is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a traditional warming Chinese treatment which uses processed leaves of the herb Artimisia Vulgaris. The moxa leaf is bitter and acrid, but produces strong warmth and medicinal healing when used in conjunction with acupuncture. It is especially helpful with cold, damp and chronic conditions and modern research shows it can enhance vitality and actually increase white blood cell counts in severely deficient patients.

Medical texts from 862 AD China, reveal that moxibustion was used to treat the condition we currently describe as tuberculosis.

There are several forms of moxa. A heated moxa pole (Chinese) and Okyu (Japanese) are two modalities used in our office. Additionally, patients can be instructed on the use of moxibustion for use at home after their session. This helps to carry over and reinforce the effects of their acupuncture treatment.