Acupuncture

I offer a gentle but very potent style of Japanese acupuncture (Kiiko Matsumoto style - kiiko.com) that is effective with a wide range of health problems—even those that haven’t responded well to other styles of acupuncture. I also incorporate classical Chinese acupuncture and myofascial trigger point-release techniques. Acupuncture treatments often include one or more of the other services/techniques described below.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a technique used to stimulate acupoints or symptomatic areas with heat by burning “moxa,” the dried and refined leaf of the mugwort plant (Artemisia vulgaris). It is used with acupuncture needles and alone. Moxa-only treatments are available for those who are too sensitive to needles.

Micro-Electrical Techniques

Used with or without needles, micro-electrical techniques common to Japanese-style acupuncture involve ion pumping cords, diodes and magnets to harness the relationship between the body’s electrical potentials and its healing ability. Mild, safe, and extremely useful for acute injuries, pain and inflammation, sinus and skin problems.

Dietary Counseling

As part of your acupuncture session, or as a stand-alone service, I offer nutritional counseling that emphasizes whole, natural foods and East Asian dietary theory. Practical guidance helps to identify problem foods and helper foods for that individual.

Gua Sha

Gua sha is the Chinese term for a form of cutaneous friction-therapy common throughout the Far East. It uses a blunt tool and a lubricant salve to manipulate the surface of the body in a characteristic, sliding way that feels akin to a deep tissue massage. Gua sha clears heat, removes toxins and improves circulation, and helps with conditions ranging from muscle tension, spasms and whiplash to cough, allergies, fever and digestive problems. It is effective with acupuncture or as a stand-alone treatment.

Cupping

Cupping is an age-old form of folk medicine that uses a vacuum effect to pull flesh slightly up inside of the cup. I do traditional Chinese “fire cupping,” which uses fire to create a vacuum inside of glass cups, which are immediately placed on the body and left on from 10-20 minutes. Cupping can remove deep-level stagnation in points and tissues, reduce swelling, and greatly relieve tension in muscles and connective tissue. It is effective during acupuncture or on its own.

Qi Gong

Chinese for “breath energy work,” Qi Gong is a broad term for exercises that coordinate movement, intention and breathing. I often teach simple Qi Gong exercises appropriate to a patient’s condition. I also offer private Qi Gong lessons for those interested in learning a series of exercises.

Currently offering group classes-- please inquire as to schedule and rates.

Bodywork

Shiatsu or Tui na are offered in stand-alone treatment sessions or are used as needed during the acupuncture treatment.

Shiatsu is a Japanese type of energetic massage that uses deep pressure to re-establish meridian balance and overall health; it is extremely balancing as a whole-body therapy.

Tui na, a Chinese style of bodywork, uses powerful gripping, pushing and pulling techniques to relax tissues and promote health; it is excellent for specific injuries, constrictions and problem areas.