Modalities

Acupuncture is a type of traditional Chinese medicine that has been around for about 2,500 years. It is a complete and holistic system of medicine used to help treat illness and improve well-being. This is done by placing needles into specific points on the skin to help shift imbalances in the body’s energetic system.

Stress, environmental factors, lifestyle behaviors, and genetics are some of the things that can block qi (similar to energy) in the body. Through an extensive process of diagnosis, acupuncturists find areas of stagnation and insert needles superficially into your skin to activate that point or channel and stimulate the flow of qi and blood. Utilizing Chinese medicine we can guide our bodies to find balance and optimal health.

Both qi and blood are deeply impacted by everything we do in our daily lives and the sensitive nature of the two may easily become out of balance. The goal of your acupuncturist is to help restore that balance, nourish the body, and optimize overall health by utilizing all the tools available including acupuncture needles, dietary therapy, herbs, and additional modalities such as cupping, gua sha, bodywork, and moxibustion.

Cupping is a technique that uses glass or plastic cups placed on the skin using a suction to disperse stagnation or break up congestion in the tissue. It can be a deeply relaxing experience, similar to a deep tissue massage. It encourages blood flow, relaxes and loosens up the muscles along where the cups are applied making is great for musculoskeletal conditions. By breaking up congestion inside the tissues, cupping supports immune function by stimulating detoxification of tissues.

Gua sha is a technique using a small flat tool in a scraping motion on specific areas of the body so healing can occur. Gua sha can help break up fascia, the connective tissue surrounding the muscles, increasing blood flow and decreasing muscle tension.

Moxa, or moxibustion, is a technique in which acupuncture points and/or body regions are warmed by burning an herb called Artemisia vulgaris or mugwort over the area. The combusting herb burns evenly and provides soothing and penetrating warmth. This method is often used to alleviate pain and strengthen the body.

Herbal formulas specifically tailored to the individual, not the issue. Tinctures, herbal pills, salves and oils made with the finest quality western and Chinese herbs may be prescribed to you as a part of your treatment plan.

This is a part of each treatment plan and can include advice on stretches, exercises, and/or nutritional advice based on Chinese dietary therapy.