Services

Acupuncture is the gentle insertion of tiny, disposable, solid, sterile needles. Acupuncture points are selected in order to regulate the vital energies of the body. What do we mean by regulate? Many health problems manifest as excess or deficient, with symptoms of heat, cold, dryness, excess phlegm or fluids, stagnation, or pain.

Cupping involves applying a glass cup to the skin with suction over an area where there is muscle pain, decreased sensation, coldness, or limited movement. Cupping moves blockage in the tissues that have built up as a result of injury, illness, or poor circulation. The suction action restores adequate blood flow to the area, accelerating the healing process after an injury or illness. Can be done with or with out acupuncture.

Gua Sha is a technique in which an oil is applied to the skin over an area where pain or limited function occurs. Then a flat edged gua sha tool is rubbed over the area with pressure, releasing tight, painful, numb, contracted muscles and tendons. These treatments are great post injury to help break up painful mobility limiting scar tissue and adhesion. Can be done along side acupuncture.

Moxa is the leaf of the plant Artemesia Vulgaris, or "Mugwort". Moxa is used externally to warm the body, invigorate blood flow, and dispel dampness and cold. Two forms are used: the smokeless stick, and indirect moxa applied to the needle handle.

We use moxa often in our clinic, and it produces a lightly smoky smell that you may notice when you arrive. We use moxa to help injuries and wounds heal better, post surgery for faster recovery, for clients with excessive coldness, for "mother roasting" - a treatment for moms postpartum to help restore energy and augment healing. We also use moxa with acupuncture on the outside of the little toenail  for pregnant women with breech position babies. In 60% of pregnant patients, moxa and acupuncture helps correct a breech position between 33 and 37 weeks. We provide these breech treatments to help a baby reposition before doctors attempt a manual version. 

Electro-Acupuncture is the application of a pulsating electrical micro-current to acupuncture needles. It was developed in China as an extension of hand manipulation of acupuncture needles around 1934. Benefits include:

• Reducing total treatment time by providing continued stimulus;
• Producing stronger stimulation without causing tissue damage associated with manual manipulation of the needle;
• Easier to control. 

Herbal Medicine is the use of plant seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, flowers, mineral, and animal objects for medicinal purposes. Chinese herbal medicine usually consists of combining two or more herbs into formulas instead of using single herbs. While the scientific study of herbs began just over two centuries ago, CM formulas have been used to treat a wide range of health problems in Asia for thousands of years. Modern doctors of CM use herbal formulas which were created, recorded, and effectively used thousands of years ago and today.

In our office we use a combination of Chinese herbs, herbs from the U.S., and elsewhere, and Nutritional Supplements such as vitamins and minerals  that are taken daily to improve your body's function. We suggest and sell many supplements here from reputable companies. Herbs are often recommended in addition to acupuncture.

As primary health care providers in California, we order and evaluate lab tests. We work with the best labs locally and regionally to help our clients see data that clarifies diagnosis and treatment. We order blood, saliva, urine, and stool testing in addition to acupuncture.