What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete health care system that has been used to diagnose, treat and prevent illness for over 3,000 years. TCM is based on the philosophy that Qi (Chee) or Life Energy, flows throughout the body along specific pathways and gathers in precise locations called acupuncture points. Pain or illness occurs when this energy becomes blocked or depleted due to trauma, poor diet, stress, medications, hereditary conditions, environmental factors, or emotional issues.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the insertion of sterile fine needles at specific points on the energetic pathways (meridians) in the body. The insertion of these hair–thin flexible needles restores the smooth flow of Qi and encourages the body's natural ability to heal itself. Acupuncture is a safe and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.

What conditions are treated with acupuncture?

The World Health Organization recognizes over 200 conditions that Traditional Chinese Medicine can effectively treat. Take a look at the treatment options for some specific conditions such as allergies, infertility, Bell's palsy, women's health issues, and pediatric care.

How long does the first visit take?

The first visit will be approximately 90 minutes. At this time a full health history will be taken with questions regarding your health, lifestyle and other information necessary to devise a treatment plan. After the interview process, you will receive an acupuncture treatment where you will lay quietly on a massage table for 30 minutes.

New patients can save time by filling out the new patient form (PDF, 164k) and bringing it with them on their first visit. To cancel or reschedule an appointment, please contact the office at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment to avoid cancellation or no-show fees.

How should I prepare?

It is a good idea to eat something at least two hours prior to treatment. Acupuncture is a very energetic medicine. If you have not eaten for several hours, your body may not have enough energy to work with.

What are acupuncture needles like?

Acupuncture needles are very thin solid needles about the size of a strand of hair. They are all pre-sterilized, individually packaged, and disposable.

Do the needles hurt?

The needles are usually painless when inserted. If there is any discomfort, it would be a feeling of a small prick that quickly dissipates.

How safe is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is extremely safe. There is no danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and than discarded. Very rarely small bruising can form where the needle was inserted.

What should I expect during a treatment?

Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle. This is called the “Qi sensation.” After treatment, you may feel energized or experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.

How often should I schedule visits?

The number of treatments differs from patient to patient and condition to condition. A treatment plan will be determined at the initial visit.

What can I expect from a treatment?

Practitioners of TCM not only look at individual symptoms but also a total picture of the patient. During the initial treatment a full health history will be taken with questions regarding your health, lifestyle and other information necessary for diagnosis. After the interview process, you will receive an acupuncture treatment where you lie quietly on a treatment table for approximately 30 minutes. Most patients feel energized or described a feeling of relaxation and well being after their treatment. Length and frequency of follow up treatments will vary depending on the individual and the nature of the condition.

Is acupuncture safe for children?

Yes! When indicated, pediatric needles can be used. Often, two to four needles will be plenty for children. These needles are quickly inserted, stimulated and immediately removed. Additionally, a non-needle technique called Shonishin is a very effective treatment for infants as well as young children. Specific acupuncture points and meridian pathways are tapped on by the acupuncturist to treat ear aches, colic, constipation and for general health.

What other techniques are used during an acupuncture treatment?

Treatment with needles is the most common method of acupuncture. Other techniques include Moxibustion (heat), Gua Sha (scraping), Cupping (suction), Auricular Therapy (ear acupuncture), Tui Na (massage) and even electrical stimulation.

What is Chinese herbal medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture are often used together in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions. Herbal formulas stimulate the body's natural healing process by addressing the underlying root cause of various medical conditions, both acute and chronic. Chinese herbal medicine is a safe, effective drug free way to become well and stay healthy, naturally.