Acupuncture professional with 29 years of experience

It is a comprehensive healthcare system that can address a wide range of health conditions, including:

• Pain management. Chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, back pain, migraines, menstrual cramps, and more.
• Digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and constipation;
• Respiratory conditions: asthma, allergies, bronchitis, and sinusitis.
• Stress and mental health issues: holistic approaches to managing stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
• Women's health: menstrual irregularities, menopausal symptoms, infertility, and pregnancy-related issues.
• Immune support: can strengthen the immune system and help prevent recurrent infections.
• Skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and overall skin health improvement.
• Chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Acupuncture (Traditional Chinese Medicine) takes a holistic approach aiming to restore balance and harmony within the body to improve overall well-being.

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body, using very thin needles. Acupoints are located along pathways, called meridians, which are believed to conduct energy (qi) throughout the body.

By inserting needles an acupuncturist can help to regulate the flow of qi and blood, as well as stimulate the body's natural healing processes. This can trigger the release of the body's natural painkillers - endorphins, and other neurotransmitters that help to reduce pain and inflammation and promote overall well-being.
It is also thought to influence the autonomic nervous system, which regulates things like heart rate, digestion, and immune response.
By modulating the activity of the nervous system, acupuncture can help restore balance in the body and address a wide range of health issues.

A comprehensive assessment of your health and well-being, typically consisting of:

• Health history: I will ask you detailed questions about your medical history, including any past illnesses, surgeries, medications, and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, sleep patterns, and stress levels.
• Physical examination: I may conduct a physical examination, which may include observing your tongue, feeling your pulse, and touching certain areas of your body to assess tenderness, pain, or other signs of imbalance.
• Diagnosis: Based on the above information I will make a diagnosis according to TCM principles, which involve identifying patterns of imbalance in your body's energy (qi), blood, yin and yang, and the functioning of your organs.
• Treatment plan: After making a diagnosis, I will make a treatment plan tailored to your specific health needs and goals. This may include a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary and lifestyle recommendations.
• Education and guidance: I will explain the proposed treatment plan, including the rationale behind each recommendation and what you can expect during the course of treatment.

Chinese herbs are safe when used appropriately and under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner.

• Herbs should be prescribed based on the patient's specific constitution, health condition, and other factors. It's crucial to disclose all medications and health concerns to your practitioner before starting herbal treatment, since some herbs may interact with medications or worsen certain health conditions.
• Herbs should be sourced from reputable suppliers to ensure their quality and authenticity.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare professional before using Chinese herbs, as some herbs may not be suitable during pregnancy or lactation.

When used correctly and under professional supervision, Chinese herbs can be a safe, natural, and effective complement to medical treatments.

Generally, it is safe but since it is all individual, some side effects may occur:

• Mild soreness, bruising, or pinprick bleeding at the spot where the needle was inserted, but these are temporary and usually resolve quickly.
• Fatigue: some may feel tired after an acupuncture treatment, but this is rather rare.
• Temporary worsening of symptoms: some may experience a temporary worsening of their symptoms after an acupuncture treatment before they improve. This is referred to as a “healing crisis” and it is considered normal in TCM and part of the healing process as your body adjusts to the treatment. May also occur after physiotherapy, massage, and chiropractic treatment.

It depends on various factors, including the state of the issue, the individual's response to treatment, and overall health.
A recommended course of treatment that provides the best results is 10 sessions.

Yes.
It can complement Western medicine by providing holistic care that addresses the root causes of illness, promotes natural healing processes, and enhances overall well-being.
Many patients find that integrating TCM with conventional treatments offers additional benefits and improves treatment outcomes.
It is important that you let your medical doctor know that you are receiving TCM so we can work in tandem.

It depends on your insurance provider and policy.
Some insurance plans cover acupuncture and other TCM modalities, especially when used for specific medical conditions. Please verify that with your insurance provider.

It is the vital energy that flows through the body, nourishing tissues, organs, and systems. In TCM theory, the smooth and balanced flow of qi is essential for health, while imbalances or blockages can lead to disease and disharmony.

Yes.
Acupuncture (TCM) can help manage chronic pain conditions like back pain, arthritis, migraines, and fibromyalgia by addressing root imbalances in the body and promoting natural healing processes.

In general - yes, but it is all very individualized and a diagnostic consultation is necessary. It can offer supportive treatment for fertility issues by regulating the menstrual cycle and promoting reproductive health in both men and women.

Yes.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine can be effective in managing stress, anxiety, and other emotional imbalances by promoting relaxation, reducing tension, and restoring balance in the body.

Yes.
TCM can help alleviate digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, bloating, and constipation by promoting optimal function.

TCM views allergies as distortions in the body's immune system and aims to address them by regulating the immune function, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the body's resistance to allergens.

I take an individualized approach with every patient, but in general, TCM offers treatments for such issues as menstrual irregularities, menopausal symptoms, fertility challenges, pregnancy support, and gynecological disorders.
These treatments aim to regulate hormonal balance, support reproductive health, and increase overall well-being.

Yes.
It offers a holistic approach to weight management that focuses on improving digestion and metabolism, regulating appetite, and promoting overall health and vitality. Treatment plans may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle modifications.