Many people come to us after pain relievers, rest and stretching have only helped so far. You may simply want another option, or something to use alongside the care you already have.
How Chinese medicine sees it
Chinese medicine sees pain as a sign that the body's energy, or qi, and circulation are not flowing smoothly. Where that flow gets stuck, you feel it as aching, stiffness or sharp pain.
Acupuncture works by stimulating the nervous system and helping the body regain its balance. Rather than treating one sore spot in isolation, we look at the whole person, because pain in one place often has roots somewhere else.
How we treat it
- Acupuncture with thin, sterile, single-use needles at points chosen for your pain pattern.
- Custom herbal formulas, prescribed by Scott Paglia, L.Ac., an experienced Chinese herbalist, when they fit your pattern.
- Heat, electroacupuncture or cupping where they suit the area and the type of pain.
- Gua sha, a gentle press-stroke technique Ryan Barber, L.Ac., uses for tight, restricted muscles.
- Simple stretching, core strengthening and lifestyle suggestions to support the work between visits.
What to expect
- A relaxed consultation and a full health history. We'll ask about where it hurts, when it started and what makes it better or worse, and about your sleep, digestion, energy and stress too.
- A traditional Chinese medicine exam, including your pulse and your tongue.
- A clear explanation of what we found and how Chinese medicine understands it.
- A treatment plan made for you, with time for all your questions.
- We'll recommend a plan after your first appointment, and adjust it as we see how you respond.
Acupuncture fits well alongside physical therapy and the care of your physician, so please keep them in the loop.
Common questions
Can acupuncture help if I'm waiting for surgery?
Many people use acupuncture to help keep pain more manageable while they wait for a procedure such as a shoulder repair. We'll work around your surgeon's plan.
Will the needles hurt?
Acupuncture needles are about as thin as a whisker. Most people feel very little, often a mild tingling, heaviness or warmth. Tell us if anything feels uncomfortable and we'll adjust.
What kinds of pain do you see?
Many people come to us for back and neck pain, sciatica, shoulder, knee and joint pain, arthritis and nerve pain.
