Frequently Asked Questions
How does acupuncture feel?
At the acupuncture point, many people feel only the acupuncturist’s hands or a light pinch which quickly dissipates. In the point, you may feel a sensation of heaviness, movement of energy, or nothing at all. Overall you may feel the release of your muscles, tingling as your circulation activates, or general relaxation. Many people experience no physical sensation and you do not need to feel any to get results.
If you're unsure if acupuncture is right for you, schedule a Free "Meet & needle" appointment.
What is a "Meet & needle" Appointment?
If you're unsure if acupuncture is right for you, start with a free "Meet & needle" appointment. This is a 15 minute brief discussion to answer any questions you have and we can show you how small acupuncture needles truly are. This appointment is for you. It can be to talk about your specific problem or to make sure you feel comfortable with needling.
What should I wear to an appointment?
Loose comfortable clothing is preferable. Some people like to bring shorts and a loose tank top to change into, but these are not required. Please expect to take off shoes, socks, watches, bracelets, and to roll up sleeves or pant legs.
Acupuncturists use the body to assess information and it responds in subtle ways. The practitioner takes your pulse on both arms, may look at your tongue, and may touch and press on your abdomen to gain information. We feel along areas that span your arms, legs, torso, back, or head. Please let me know if you are uncomfortable in any areas or have any concerns.
How do I prepare for my appointment?
After booking, fill out new patient information in your new online account.
Bring a list of medications & supplements you are taking. or take a photo of each bottle label so it will be on your phone.
Eat a light meal prior to treatment & skip caffeine before treatment.
When you arrive, I recommend using the restroom before every treatment.
Turn your cell phone to silent or airplane mode for treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
Acupuncture and herbs are rarely a permanent fix with one session. It is like a stone skipping across the surface of calm water, causing waves to ripple through every centimeter of the river. As the water begins to calm, we skip another stone. With multiple throws, lasting change can be made.
The amount of sessions depends on what type of injury or disharmony you are working on and your current health. Many patients start with 8-12 treatments, however, every person is different. Please schedule a consultation to get a better idea of your treatment timeline.
What does integrative mean?
I combine the study of Chinese and Japanese medicine with knowledge of Western physiology, treatment, and nutrition. In addition to acupuncture or prescribing herbal medicine, I may use other asian medicine techniques such as cupping, 7-star/plum blossom, teishin, guasha, and more. Additionally, I often discuss lifestyle modification such as nutrition, exercise, or other stress reduction techniques. Lifestyle modification is essential to keep your health going beyond acupuncture treatments alone.
We do not prescribe pharmaceuticals. However, we see many patients whom are on medications or other therapies and apply this knowledge to how we help you. We are happy to work alongside other styles of medicine, using shared knowledge to reach your health goal.
How does acupuncture help labor preparation?
It prepares the body to open the pelvis, to soften the cervix, dilate smoothly, and strengthens muscles for the upcoming uterine and pelvic floor workout.
Acupuncture also increases circulation and healing for the postpartum phase, whether your delivery is vaginal or via c-section.
What else can acupuncture and herbs help with?
Digestive Issues
IBS, constipation, acid reflux, Crohn's dx.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Diabetes, slow metabolism, low hunger then ravenously hungry.
Insomnia
Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, daytime lethargy, post travel sleep disruption.
Mental & Emotional Health
Anxiety, depression, irritability, dream disturbed sleep, "stuck" irritation in chest or throat.
Weakened Immune System
Frequent colds, asthma, congestion
Pain
Back pain, frozen shoulder, joint stiffness, sciatica, knee weakness.
Headaches
Migraines, tension headaches.
Support during chemotherapy or radiation
Help gain strength to heal and decrease symptoms by increasing appetite, reducing nausea, decreasing neuropathy, and strengthening immunity.
Post surgery symptoms
Reduced circulation, pain, loss of sensation, numbness, or "pins and needles" sensation, tightness at or below scar, stagnated lymph, puffiness or edema.
What is moxibustion or moxa?
Moxibustion, also called moxa, is an herbal preparation made of mugwort that is useful for accessing and rejuvenating certain points of the body. It has many uses such as to add energy to a person, to break up knotted areas of the body, to increase circulation, release swelling, increase white blood cell count and boost immunity. We light the moxa and transfer the heat from the herb into your body. Some patients find the warmth and smell of the herb very soothing during their treatment. There are many forms of moxa which range from no smoke to smokey. If you are sensitive to smoke, please inform me.