Treatment Options
We have many different treatment options available to find the right fit for you.
TCM Treatment Techniques
- Acupuncture
- Herbal Therapy
- Cupping
- Auricular Acupuncture
- E-stim/Electro-acupuncture
- Ear seeds or beads
- Tui Na
- Gua Sha
- Heat therapy
This is what most Americans think of when they hear Traditional Chinese Medicine. Very thin needles, sometimes as thin as a human hair, are inserted into the body at specific points. These can be recognized acupuncture points or points were there are tense muscles or pain.
Chinese herbal medicine focuses on herbal formulas, rather than single herbs like Western herbalism. One benefit of this method is that it allows the herbal formula to treat symptoms from many angles.
Herbal formulas can be prescibed as pills, granules to dissolve in warm water, or raw herbs to brew into tea.
Cupping is an increasingly common way to help soothe tight, achy muscles.
Ear acupuncture
Also known as electroacupuncture, in this treatment nonpainful electric pulses are sent through electrodes attached to the acupuncture needles. These pulses stimulate the needles while they are in place, similar to traditional manual stimulation of needles.
E-stim can be helpful for many musculoskeletal conditions, but could potentially be added to any treatment to encourage the movement of Qi.
E-stim should never be painful. Often is feels like a light tapping sensation. Even if the patient feels no sensation from the stimulation, the treatment is still working.
This is a non-invasive technique that uses small, painless metal balls or seeds stuck to acupuncture points on the patient’s ear with adhesive tape.
Chinese medical massage has some techniques in common with relaxation or Swedish massage, but is often different. Tui Na can be especially helpful for musculoskeletal issues around joints such as the shoulder.
Dermal scraping is another way to release muscle tension. The term comes from bringing “Sha”, or redness, out in the skin.
Generally used in conjunction with other treatments, heat can be helpful in the alleviation of pain and moving Qi. This heat can take the form of a compress or lamp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you ask so many questions?
I know that some of the questions we ask can be embarrassing, but to create the best treatment plan possible questions about all body systems are asked. Things that may not be significant in western medicine, such as how thirsty you are or if your ears itch, may help guide diagnosis and treatment.
You can always choose not answer any questions you wish.
Do acupuncture needles hurt?
Most of the time receiving acupuncture does not hurt – patients may not even feel the needles! Many people describe the feeling as like a mosquito a bite.
It is common for patients to experience a heavy, full sensation once the needles are inserted. Occasionally, patients may experience pain, especially when getting treatment on tight muscles. If you uncomfortable at any time, please let us know.
What happens after acupuncture needles are put in?
After needles are inserted patients are left to rest for about 25 minutes. I remain nearby while the patient rests so I can hear them if they call.
What if I don’t like needles?
No problem! There are many options other than needles, including herbs, cupping, ear seeds, and gua sha.
Can I make an appointment just to get herbs?
Absolutely! Herbal treatments can be very effective for most conditions. Herbal consultations can be virtual or in-person.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
We understand that sometimes things come up. You can cancel your appointment by text, email, or phone call. Please note: we require 24 hours notice of cancelled appointments. If an appointment is cancelled with less than 24 hours notice, the patient will be charged 50% of the fee for the missed appointment.
