Acupuncture

Gentle acupuncture is a wonderful way to manage the symptoms of chronic illness. Research shows reduction in pain and improvement in quality of life for people living with insomnia, headaches, menstrual issues, and digestive disorders.

Acupuncture and related modalities have been used for millennia to help relieve pain. Some of my patients are using acupuncture to get enough pain relief that they can delay surgery or avoid it all together. Some patients are able to use less medication when they have regular acupuncture. Some patients can engage in activities they haven't been able to do for 25 years because they've been in too much pain.

I practice a gentle style of acupuncture, drawing from multiple Japanese styles. My training emphasized pulse diagnosis and palpation to determine the necessary treatment. I typically use shallow needle insertions or non-insertive needling techniques. I often include bodywork (shiatsu or sotai) and other modalities: moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, polarity tools, and shonishin.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is burning the herb Artemesia (Mugwort). There are various methods of moxibustion, including burning it while it is in contact with the skin (pictured), above the skin, on the head of a needle, and on another material (e.g. a slice of ginger). I commonly use tiny "rice grain" cones and burn them directly on the skin (without burning the skin!).

Non-insertive acupuncture - Shonishin

Shonishin is a non-insertive form of acupuncture that works really well for kids. I use metal tools to tap and stroke acupuncture points and channels, with the effect of re-balancing a child's system. Children are very quick to respond, so treatments usually only last a few minutes. Shonishin also works well for sensitive adults, including those living with PTSD, Lyme disease, autoimmune issues, cancer, and multiple chemical sensitivities.

It works on adults, too.