What can I expect from my first appointment?

Please take the time to fill out your health history, consent to treat, insurance verification and new patient deposit to hold your spot. On day of treatment, the session will consist of an extensive health history background analysis and conversation with the practitioner. Please feel free to bring medication lists, images or additional information that you think may be helpful to the practitioner.

After the intake you will receive a full treatment and recommendation on future treatments. Cups, moxa or other modalaties may be used during treatment.

How many treatments will I need? How often will these treatments be?

Recommendations on treatment plans will vary by patient. Generally, chronic conditions take a bit longer to treat than acute conditions, however everyone responds differently to treatment, so your plan will truly be customized to your needs.  

We use scales in our intake process to gauge how things are progressing, and this helps the patient see the progress.

Do I need a “reason” to come in?

No.  Many patients come in for regular treatments to maintain their overall health and wellness.  The beauty of acupuncture is that it can be a wonderful preventative medicine.

Does acupuncture hurt?  

Acupuncture needles come in many different sizes, lengths and gauges.  For people who are needle-sensitive, we use smaller, thinner needles.

Patients can feel a dullness, tingling and heaviness at the site of insertion. This lets us know that we’ve hit the point of Qi (energy) and that is it moving. Other patients don’t feel anything at all - just a sense of calmness over the whole body.

Are acupuncture needles sterile and safe?

Yes! All of our needles are completely sterile, single use needles, they are individually packaged and disposed in a biohazard bin immediately after use.

What are common things acupuncture treats?

Acupuncture is known to treat many conditions, here are some of the most common, but are not limited to:

Pain, Headaches, Fertility, Memory, Sleep, Digestive Issues, Cardiac issues, Arthritis, Sports Injuries, Cholesterol, Weight Loss, Addiction, Recovery, Dependence, Depression, Respiratory Issues, Colds, Fevers, Chemo/Radiation Treatment, Thyroid Issues, Pediatric Issues, Coughing, Stress, Anxiety, Labor Induction, Milk Production, Libido, Sexual Dysfunction, Dizziness, Dye Problems, Incontinence, Bowel Complaints, Autoimmune Disorders and MORE.

What is involved in a pediatric acupuncture treatment?

For pediatric treatment, we mostly do not use needles unless the child is a bit older.  We will use magnets, pressballs, presstacks and non-insertive needles to stimulate points.  Moxa, light sliding cupping and massage are also used. Pedi treatments are short and simple, but children respond so quickly!

What is cupping? How does cupping work?

Cupping is an ancient medical treatment that relies upon creating a local suction to mobilize blood flow in order to promote healing. A partial vacuum is created in cups placed on the skin either by means of heat or suction. This draws up the underlying tissues, four layers deep. Cups can be left on the skin anywhere from 3-15 minutes. Light to medium bruising is normal and will go away within a few days. Cupping helps to move stagnation, relieve muscle tension and tonify underlying deficiency.

What is gua sha? How does gua sha work?

Gua sha involves repeated pressured strokes over lubricated skin with a smooth edge. Commonly, a ceramic Chinese soup spoon is used.  The smooth edge is placed against the pre-oiled skin surface, pressed down firmly, and then moved down the muscles—(i.e., friction-stroking) — or along the pathway of the acupuncture meridians, along the surface of the skin, with each stroke being about 4-6 inches long.

What is moxa?

Moxa is a warming herb (dried Mugwort) that is used to warm the body, move blood and Qi, alleviate pain, as well as tonify any underlying deficiencies.

What can cupping and gua sha help with?

Conditions that can benefit from cupping/gua sha include headache, back pain, joint and muscular pain, infertility, sexual disorders, rheumatic diseases, hypertension, fatigue, common colds and flu, insomnia, stroke, fever, constipation and diarrhea, chest pain, asthma, and blood disorders.

What is Thai massage? How is it different from a common massage?

Thai Massage is a healing, spiritual art with roots in Ayurveda and Yoga. Dating back to the time of the Buddha, this ancient form of massage is a mix of acupressure and yoga. The practitioner applies rhythmic pressure by using their thumbs, hands, and feet to stimulate the movement of energy in the body. Passive, yoga-based stretches are used to free muscular and joint tension. Designed to be both relaxing and stimulating, deep and balancing, Thai massage improves flexibility, reduces tension, stimulates internal organs, and balances the body’s energy system. Sessions are performed on a comfortable floor mat with the client dressed in comfortable loose fitting clothing.

What does Thai Massage help with?

Do you accept my insurance?

Thai massage helps to build range of motion in the body in a very passive manner.  Thai massage supports the building of flexibility,, breaking down tight muscles and fascia, as well as creating peace, and ease in the body and mind.

My practice accepts insurance for patients. To best serve you, I can verify your insurance benefits before you arrive. Please click on the link below and complete the online form. I will contact you as soon as the benefits are established.