Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine originated in China over 3000 years ago, drawing on careful observation of patterns of transformation and change in nature and in the body. Vitality of the body’s energy and balanced movement of that energy within an intricate network of pathways were seen as essential for good health. Acupuncture and herbal medicine, along with the other modalities of Oriental Medicine, have been developed to cultivate this vitality and balance in body, mind and spirit.
Acupuncture is well known for treating pain, but also addresses a wide range of acute and chronic conditions (see below). It is also excellent for stress reduction, and regular monthly or seasonal treatments can help support ongoing wellness. Chinese herbal medicine, though less well known in the West, is a predominant form of treatment in Asian countries and is extremely effective in addressing a broad range of conditions. The other modalities of Oriental medicine—moxabustion (heat therapy), Tuina, Cupping and other manual therapies, dietary practices, exercise, breathing, meditation and relaxation—are all methods of further cultivating greater balance, vitality and ease.
About my approach:
In more than 20 years as an acupuncture
practitioner and student, I have explored numerous styles and techniques
from the array of practices that make up the world of Oriental Medicine. In
my clinic, I will develop a unique treatment plan for each patient, using
methods that best serve the needs of that individual. I also bring insights
from Yoga therapy and meditation practices to my assessment, treatment
and therapeutic recommendations.
As a general practitioner, I have had the opportunity to work with people with extremely varied health concerns. I am continually inspired to see how this medicine can help support the body’s natural ability to heal, even with long-standing and hard-to-understand conditions. I have extensive experience and a particular interest in treating women’s health, and fertility issues for both women and men. I also enjoy working with people with pain and sports injuries, and find that combining acupuncture with manual techniques and increased postural awareness can lead to significant relief and lasting improvement.
What to expect:
Your first appointment will include
a thorough history, a physical examination and brief structural assessment,
and an acupuncture treatment. Our goal is to understand your main symptoms
within the context of your unique history, present life circumstances,
and environmental and seasonal factors, and from this understanding,
develop an individualized plan of treatment. This initial visit usually
lasts between 1 ½ and 2 hours.
The needles used for treatment are extremely fine, pre-sterilized and disposable after one use. Heat may be used when appropriate. Gentle manual therapies and bodywork techniques are often used to align the body, open the energy pathways, and treat local blockages. Treatment sessions are usually experienced as deeply relaxing and meditative, pleasantly energizing, or both. After the initial session, follow-up treatments last one hour.
Herbal medicine
Herbal formulas may be prescribed in conjunction with acupuncture, or
may be taken alone. Herbs may be taken in various forms—decoctions,
powders, capsules or pills, or topical applications—depending on the
condition treated and your preferences. Herbs are taken several times
daily, and provide a consistent, gradual balancing influence. Herbal
consults for patients not receiving acupuncture last one hour.
Self-Care
One of the greatest contributions of Oriental Medicine to health care
practices in the West is in the area of wellness cultivation. Understanding
and embracing the role of self-care is often the key to success in achieving
and maintaining good health. I have a deep appreciation of this aspect
of the healing process, and will work with you to identify the lifestyle
changes and wellness practices that will enable you to achieve lasting
improvements.
