What to Expect

I want to make sure you are fully prepared and aware of what acupuncture is and what the experience is like.

  • There are energy channels called meridians that originate with each organ and travel through the entire body. Life-promoting ‘substances’ such as Qi circulate through these meridians to nourish and replenish every cell, tissue and organ in our body- as well as our mind and spirit! Specific sites along these meridians are stimulated to either encourage the circulation of Qi to areas of the body that are stagnant, or to increase the strength of Qi in the areas that are depleted. The overall objective is to balance the bodily systems so that Qi energy may circulate unimpeded with vitality.

  • Typically, acupuncture is not painful. Most people find it to be a very pleasant experience. Insertion of the needle produces little or no sensation at all. When the body’s Qi is activated, some people may feel a mild tingling, burning, achy, heavy or electric sensation at the acupuncture sight or within the affected meridian. This sensation usually dissipates quickly.

  • Absolutely! Acupuncturists are required to follow strict protocol regarding the sterilization of needles. Only single-use, sterilized, disposable needles are used to ensure the safety of all patients.

  • There is no set formula for the number and frequency of treatments as each patient’s health history and response to treatments are quite unique. Typically, the recommendation is 1-3 treatments per week depending on the severity and duration of the condition. Patients may respond favorably after one treatment, or may require several months of treatments to reach their health goals.

  • Yes. Acupuncture will not interfere with other healthcare modalities. In fact, it may enhance other therapies such as; massage, chiropractic care, physical therapy and fertility care. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are frequently used to reduce the side effects of cancer treatments and complications of HIV/AIDS medicines.

  • A Chinese herbal formula may be recommended as it may add a deeply nutritive benefit to your treatment plan. The use of herbs may enhance the healing process as they serve as a daily treatment.

  • · Accidental injuries (promotes healing)

    · Acute or Chronic Pain

    · Alcohol, food, and tobacco addiction

    · Allergies

    · Arthritis

    · Back pain

    · Circulatory disorders

    · Cold & Flu treatment and prevention

    · Constipation

    · Diarrhea

    · Digestive disorders

    · Fatigue and stress

    · General Health & Well-being

    · Gynecological disorders

    · Insomnia

    · Migraines and headaches

    · Neck and shoulder pain

    · Nervous system disorders

    · Repetitive stress syndrome (including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)

    · Sprains

    · Women’s Health Issues

    Acupuncture can treat the above ailments and many more. When done correctly it is very safe and there are no side effects as opposed to some Western medicines. At your first visit Karen will give you an overall assessment, acupuncture and herbal consultation and create a personalized treatment plan to bring your body back to balance so you will feel healthy and strong.

  • Acupuncture

    Acupuncture is successful in treating many difficult and painful conditions. To promote healing and overall health, an acupuncturist inserts very thin needles into specific points on the body. The points are located on pathways called meridians or channels which carry our Qi (life force or energy). Each meridian is associated with a certain organ in the body. Like a dam in a river, if the meridian is blocked, Qi will not flow properly, the organ will not work correctly, and the body will be out of balance. The inserted needle unblocks the meridian and restores the flow of Qi making the patient feel better.

    Needling acupuncture points can release blocked energy and regulate areas of deficiency. It helps correct internal imbalances in the body. According to modern science, research suggests that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system to release certain chemicals in the brain, spinal cord and muscles. These chemicals either change the perception of pain or stimulate the release of other chemicals and hormones which affect the body’s internal system. These effects produced by acupuncture enhance and activate the body’s ability to heal itself, promoting physical and mental health. It is also exceptional for reducing stress and tension, the cause of many emotional and physical complaints.

    Most patients feel very relaxed during and after an acupuncture treatment. You may also notice changes in your sleep patterns, digestion, menstrual cycle and emotional attitude. These are all normal and positive side benefits of treatment.

    Herbs

    Herbal remedies are tailored to each individual’s need. Herbal supplements are recommended to enhance or further treat conditions along with acupuncture for maximum effectiveness.

    Cupping

    Cupping is a method of extracting pathogens that are lodged in the muscle layers. This method helps to warm and promote the free flow of Qi (energy), dispel colds, and alleviate pain.

    Moxibustion

    Moxibustion is a warm therapy that treats an interior cold condition. Not only will it warm the body from the interior but will also help with gynecological issues and promote circulation.

    Celluma

    Celluma LED Treatment is designed to treat a variety of pain as all well skin conditions. This device emits low-level light therapy to treat pain by promoting micro-circulation to increase cell growth.

  • I carry quality Chinese herbs and Whole Food Vitamins: Evergreen Herbs, Standard Process, Focal Evolve, Food Research, QuickSilver Scientific, and 3RD Planet.

    I also carry full spectrum, hand crafted CBD tincture - CBD Mendo.

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