Frequently Asked Questions

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Acupuncture can provide numerous benefits such as reducing pain and inflammation, improving sleep and digestion, reducing stress and anxiety, and boosting the immune system. Most patients comment that their sense of well being is better. Acupuncture is excellent when used as health maintenance. Patients will report that their seasonal issues are lessened or even eliminated. Acupuncture depends on the body systems to work and we do not use substances that suppress symptoms or organ function. IF you are currently on opioid painkillers or have had a recent steroid injection or therapy, it is not recommended to have acupuncture for 2-3 weeks after use as these stop natural body processes. While we can help you wean off painkillers, be aware of the limitations and always consult with your doctor. 

Acupuncture has been around for over 2,000 years and is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine.

Yes, acupuncture can be an effective treatment for fertility issues by improving blood flow to the reproductive organs, regulating hormone levels, and reducing stress.

Herbs are many different types of natural substances such as roots, leaves, bark branches, rocks, shells, animal products. We use a raw powder form to make decoctions or put in capsules. It is simply the raw herb ground up and doesn't dissolve in water. If we can't get the powder, we may purchase the herb and grind it in house. This results in a rougher texture. Sometimes we use powdered extract which is the raw herb, cooked, dried and does dissolve in liquid. Many of our herbs are recognizable like honeysuckle, forsythia, apricot and peach seeds, clam, mother of pearl, tortoise shell, cinnamon, peppermint and foxglove. Much effort and work so into providing the proper species of herb and we only purchase from companies that comply with cGMP or Good Manufacturing Practices. (www.who.int if you want to check that out)

Herbs are more commonly used in China than acupuncture! Pharmaceuticals and supplements are not the medicine of choice there and people don't have the tolerance for poor health like we do. Herbs can help with acute issues like cough and colds, as well as chronic issues such a hypertension, hot flashes, digestive disorders, emotional/mental disorders, the list is long! 

Herbs are very safe when used under the supervision of a qualified acupuncturist. Not all acupuncturists study herbs so be sure to check out the certifications. www.nccaom.org

Definitely not TUNA. Tuina is usually most patient's favorite part. Paula and Audrey offer tuina in their acupuncture sessions, as well as tuina only. Also called Chinese therapeutic bodywork, tuina is comprehensive in its scope. In China, tuina masters are trained to manipulate and adjust every bone in the body. In America the education is more limited and we do not crack joints, though pops may be heard as the body releases its tensions. We are trained to be aware of the patient and listen to preferences but tuina is generally very deep and thorough.