What exactly is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of needles into specific points on the body that correspond with meridians, or lines of energy.   The use and beginnings of clinical documentation for acupuncture dates back over 2,500 years. 

How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture needles (thin in diameter, like 3 hairs pressed together) are inserted along meridians, or pathways that have an energetic correspondence to various functions in the body.  For example, the point at the elbow named Lung 5, helps to stop excessive nasal drainage that is copious or profuse, and is often combined with points that assist in this function.  Points are used singly or in combination to address the specific complaint of each individual patient.  Acupuncture is a holistic medicine, meaning that it can address more than one issue at a time, and its effects help restore whole body function, not just one isolated complaint or issue.

What should I expect during an acupuncture treatment?
Your first treatment will take about 1 ½ hours because there is an interview and Michelle will go over your intake form, and then observe your tongue and palpate your pulses.  This takes about 30 minutes and during that time, you should report any and all issues you would like addressed.  It is helpful to dress casually, and you may be required to remove some clothing to access areas for acupuncture.  Needling is very gently administered, and usually painless.  Michelle’s technique is very gentle and she is well-trained in how to insert without causing discomfort.  Once the needles are in place, some patients report a feeling of deep relaxation, and calm, or mild euphoria.  Your comfort and care is of utmost importance, and Michelle is always within earshot should you ever become uncomfortable while on the table. 

How long does it usually take to get results with acupuncture?
The number of treatments really depends on the condition being treated.  Acute injuries, such as tendinitis or muscle sprain, typically require between 1-3 treatments.  For more systemic and chronic conditions, such as sinusitis, persistent coughs or allergies, and skin conditions, for example, it will take longer to see results.  The average patient will receive between 3-7 treatments, and results may often be observed after the first or second appointment.  The advantage to Chinese medicine is that the effects are more often long-lasting and permanent, and there is a real and definite improvement in chronic complaints, even for conditions that are difficult to cure.

Do I need to also take Chinese herbs to get well?
Not necessarily.   Acupuncture alone can treat many health complaints, especially those that involve a blockage of qi, or stuck energy along a channel.  Chinese herbs are amazingly effective for many health issues such as sinus conditions, arthritis, menstrual problems, headaches, digestive problems, and more.  Many of the patented formulas are available in pill or tablet forms, or granulated herbs that can be dissolved in hot water to make a tea.  Chinese herbal formulations are elegant, effective and researched in Japan and the U.S.  They treat the underlying problem, rather than just symptoms, without  the unwanted side effects of so many prescriptive medications.