Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient medicinal modality that encourages the body to promote natural healing and to improve functioning. This is done by inserting thin filiform needles at specific acupuncture points. (Do they hurt? Click here )This effective Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) method involves our body’s channels of energy known as Qi (What’s Qi? Click here ) which flow in regular patterns within the body and over its surface. These energy channels are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish the tissues. An obstruction in the movement of these “energy rivers” is like a dam that backs up. The channels can be influenced by needling the acupuncture points; the acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the dams and reestablish a regular energy flow through the body. While experiences and outcomes vary person to person, it’s a unique alternative to keep in mind for various conditions such as stress, anxiety, depression, back or joint pain, headaches, shingle pain, digestive issues, menstrual issues etc. Other healing modalities you may experience during your treatment may include moxibustion, gua sha, tui na (Chinese massage), electroacupuncture or cupping.Cupping
• Cupping is a therapy that relieves blockage within the body’s tissues. Applied to different parts of the body, it’s able to improve circulation throughout the lymph and musculoskeletal systems. It’s commonly used to treat many types of pain, relieve tension, reduce scar tissue, and improve range of motion. • Fair warning – It is normal for cupping to leave marks on the skin that may last 3-7 days. Think of it as a badge of honor for doing your body good!Moxa
Moxibustion involves the heating of acupuncture points with smoldering mugwort herb (known as moxa). Moxibustion stimulates circulation, counteracts cold and dampness in the body, and promotes the smooth flow of blood and qi. This safe, non-invasive technique may be used alone, but it is generally used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment.Electroacupuncture
Needles are inserted on specific points along the channels of body just like a traditional acupuncture treatment. The needles are then attached to a device that generates continuous electric pulses using small clips. Depending on the condition being treated, the frequency and intensity of electrical impulses being delivered are adjusted. This method allows for the body to receive a more intense and direct message especially helpful in certain cases such as chronic pain.Guasha
Gua sha, also known as ‘coining, spooning or scraping’, is a technique using unidirectional press-stroking of a lubricated area of the body surface to intentionally create transitory therapeutic petechiae called ‘sha’. Raising sha removes “blood stagnation” considered pathogenic in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The petechiae produce an anti-inflammatory and immune boost effect that persists for days following a single treatment. Accounting for the immediate relief that patients feel from pain, stiffness, fever, chill, cough, and wheezing.Tui na
Tui na means “pushing grasping,” and is a powerful form of Chinese medical bodywork. Based on the same medical principles as acupuncture, tui na seeks to improve the flow of qi through the meridian channels. Tui na is particularly effective for conditions involving muscles, tendons and joints, such as structural misalignment, orthopedic problems and sports injuries. It can also be used to treat internal diseases.Other Services
Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine is one of the primary complementary components within acupuncture medicine. Herbal medicine uses plants (roots, stems, branches, leaves, seed, or flowers) and other natural substances to facilitate the changes necessary for your body to heal. Just like acupuncture medicine, herbal treatments focus on identifying the symptoms and causes of why you are not feeling well – delving into your medical health and wellness history, including your emotional wellness, looking for patterns and connections of what may be out of balance. Once these patterns are identified, we use herbal formulations to address the symptoms and underlying causes of your specific scenario. In our clinic we use herbs in a variety of forms: granulated powders, liquid tinctures, capsules & caplets, as well as topical applications such as soaks & plasters. All the herbs we use are quality tested to ensure safety & efficacy. Herbal medicine is often used while you are also receiving acupuncture treatments or can be used as a stand-alone therapy. Please make sure that your herbalist has current lists of all medications, supplements, and all other medical care while you are using herbal medicine – as we must make sure that all of your therapies work well and safely together. We encourage you to schedule a free consultation to explore if herbal medicine is right for you.Kinesiotaping
Kinesiotaping is a unique application of taping that is helpful in a wide variety of conditions. It’s commonly seen on athletes; however it is quite useful for non-athletes as well. The tape is flexible and comfortable enough to stay in place for up to 3-4 days, providing continual healing benefits for an extended period of time. It works according to these 5 basic functions: – changes pain signal messaging between the body & brain – decompresses areas of swelling/inflammation – delays muscle fatigue – normalizes muscle tone & coordinates muscle group activity – distributes physical stress of muscles/tendons/ligaments I received my taping certification in Functional Movement Techniques with Rocktape. I regularly treat patients with these conditions with kinesiotaping (often in addition to other therapies in my clinic): • plantar fasciitis • low back pain • IT band tightness • knee pain/weakness • scar tissue/adhesions • carpal tunnel • elbow tendonitis • upper back/neck/shoulder pain, tightness, fatigue • preparation for endurance activities (long run, race day, vacations involving increased hiking, biking) For more details and access to videos, visit https://www.rocktape.com/products/tape/how-it-worksYoga and Mindfulness
Yoga, mindfulness, and meditation are ancient practices proven to benefit our bodies and minds. Most of our lives are spent focusing on things in our external world. Yoga and meditation cultivate our connection to our inner world, helping bring a sense of quiet, receptivity, and groundedness. It’s not about being perfect to gain the benefits – start where you are, and slowly build the practice. We offer yoga and mindfulness instruction and practice in classes and small groups, in workshops, and in private sessions. Ask about the current schedule of mindfulness & yoga sessions. . .Specialty: Pediatrics
Acupuncture safely and effectively treats many common pediatric conditions. At our clinic, we believe that every child is unique and deserves an equally unique approach to treatment. The environment is safe and compassionate. We strive to treat your child with as much comfort for both the child and parent. We focus on understanding your child’s health condition and creating an individual healing program that addresses your child’s symptoms along with the underlying cause. Individual healing programs include a combination of acupuncture or non-needle techniques: • Acupressure and massage techniques to use at home • Diet and/or lifestyle adaptations • Education and direction of natural remedies • Determining your child’s unique Five Element Type • Seasonal and preventative support Pediatric Acupuncture Works Well for the Following Conditions: • Sinus infections, headaches • Allergies, colds, congestion • Ear infections, ear pain, clogged ears, cough • Bronchitis, asthma, cough • Constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, IBS • Growing pains, sports injuries, broken bones, rheumatoid arthritis • Eczema, hives, rashes • Tics, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, autismCheck out our informational booklet on preparing your child for acupuncture treatment!
Reiki
Reiki is a technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. Developed in Japan in 1921 by Mikao Usui and brought to the United States in 1938, this treatment technique is administered using light touch which gently facilitates each person’s own ability to find and maintain balance in body, mind and spirit.
The word Reiki is made of two Japanese words – Rei which means “Higher Wisdom or the Higher Power” and Ki which is life force energy known in Chinese medicine as Qi (pronounced “chee”) So, Reiki is actually “spiritually guided life force energy.” However, it is not a religious practice. Much like acupuncture and the Chinese concept of nourishing and moving Qi to balance the body, Reiki is based on the belief that Qi flows in and through all living things. When this energy is low or blocked, we are more likely to get sick and feel stressed.
A treatment feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and well-being.