Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a medical system based on thousands of years of knowledge of the human body and mind. It is accepted around the world as a safe, effective and holistic complement or alternative to western medicine.

At the core of Chinese Medicine is the idea of balance. The actual focus of Traditional Chinese Medicine is on preventative care- to create balance in body, mind and spirit to live a whole, vibrant life. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we trust that the body innately heals itself. However, when imbalance is prolonged, the body needs help to allow itself to heal; Chinese medicine can also help to support this process.

Chinese Medicine utilizes the terminology of Qi (pronounced “chee”) to describe the "energy" that flows throughout the body. Qi circulates through specific pathways in the body called meridians or vessels. These pathways transport qi to nourish and protect every cell, organ, gland, and tissue and muscle. When qi flows freely throughout the body, our bodies are in balance and we are physically, emotionally and mentally well. However, when qi flow is disrupted due to stress, trauma, improper diet, medications, or other factors, imbalance is created and pain and illness result.

During your first visit, I will conduct a comprehensive exam, including a complete health history, to evaluate your current state of health. Once a diagnosis is determined, I will recommend a treatment plan which may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutritional counseling, exercise, meditation, and lifestyle suggestions. The goal is to return the body to a balanced state- where qi is balanced and flowing freely.

With the goal of complementary and integrative medicine in mind, I will collaborate with your primary care physician and/or medical specialist.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture works by increasing circulation and restoring the body to a balanced state. Acupuncture is the insertion of fine, sterile needles at specific points in the body in order to promote healing. There are hundreds of acupuncture points all over the body. I choose points that will most effectively treat your condition. In my practice I utilize sterilized, disposable needles that are used only once. Some patients will feel very little with the acupuncture needle insertion, while some patients will feel energy or an enegetic flow from the acupuncture point. The range of experiences will vary from person to person, and even from appointment to appointment depending on a variety of factors.

Moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, and acupressure are also included in acupuncture treatments. Patients can also schedule appointments for any of these treatments separately. I often teach patients how to safely administer moxibustion, gua sha and acupressure on themselves at home. In this way, patients can be directly involved in their own healing process.

Moxibustion is a treatment that uses an herb called mugwort (artmesia vulgaris- a species of chrysanthemum). The herb is burned above the skin to warm acupuncture points, strengthen qi and promote healing. Patients enjoy the sensation of warmth and find it very relaxing.

Cupping is a treatment that uses glass cups on the skin with a suction to create a vacuum. Cupping stimulates qi and blood flow to promote healing and release muscle tension. It is often used for treating back pain, shoulder pain and can also be used to relieve colds and reduce fevers.

Gua Sha is a deeper form of massage that uses a tool to massage areas of the body. It's effectively used to treat headaches, neck stiffness, and shoulder tightness.

Acupressure involves massaging acupuncture points to promote qi flow.

Facial Rejuvenation

Acupuncture facial rejuvenation is a Chinese Medicine treatment that involves a comprehensive examination to determine a patient’s overall health and balance. Each treatment is unique to the individual. Unexpectedly other areas of health may improve through this complete healing approach. Read more about Facial Rejuvenation

Chinese Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine is a major component of Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been used for over 3000 years in China and around the world. Throughout history, herbal remedies were used to heal and balance the body. Unlike most pharmaceuticals and even herbal remedies found in health food stores, Chinese herbal prescriptions from a licensed practitioner are customized for the patient. Chinese herbal medicine may be suggested for a patient in conjunction with or sometimes in place of acupuncture. Chinese herbal medicines are prescribed according to each individual’s needs based on their diagnosis. In my practice, I use the highest quality herbs available that have been tested to be free of heavy metals and contaminants.

Nutrition

In Chinese Medicine, a balanced diet is an essential component of good health. Dietary habits can become a cause of disease if the diet is imbalanced either in types of foods, amounts of foods, or eating habits. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, foods are recommended therapeutically according to one's constitution and according to the season to create balance in the body. In order to absorb the nutrients from our food choices, it is important that we eat in a peaceful setting and in an unrushed, relaxed manner. Eating in a hurry, on the run, late in the evening, or eating in a state of emotional tension can lead to imbalances. Refer to my article on Healthy Eating in the Articles page for more information on nutrition.

Exercise

Exercise is important in order to move the qi and prevent stagnation. Each individual’s needs for amount and type of exercise varies. It is important to find exercise activities that are fun and enjoyable. Tai Qi is a Chinese Medicine form of exercise that has shown to provide many health benefits.

Meditation and Breathing Techniques

Meditiation and breathing techniques are important to relax the mind and nourish the qi. Qi gong is a Chinese Medicine form of meditation, but there are many other meditation forms. It is important to find forms of meditation that work for you. Ideally, meditiation is integrated into daily life.

Lifestyle suggestions

Balanced health requires a balanced life. In addition to the above mentioned tools, I often make suggestions to encourage patients towards healthier ways of living. These suggestions are based on each individual’s needs and goals. Chinese Medicine can be a part of a balanced life, but it is important for each individual to create a lifestyle that supports their own vision of a good life.

Oftentimes, a patient’s thoughts, attitude and actions can impede the healing process. By making subtle changes in attitude and behavior, we make room for more potential in healing.