Frequently Asked Questions

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How does acupuncture work?

More and more, this is the explanation I like:

Humans are electrical beings above all else. Yes, we have mechanical aspects, chemical functions but the electricity in the body overlies all other functions. To quote Dr. Daniel Keown's The Spark in the Machine, "it is electricity that kicks a cell into life. This electricity is intelligent; it carries information; it has Qi (pronounced “chi”); it is not dumb … it is eleQicity". The innate intelligence of the human body is always trying to heal itself; even if it creates a problem - the problem, temporarily, was the best solution in the moment. 

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* Meridians are real and are located in the fascia 

* The access points on the surface of the body (acupuncture points) connect to the meridians and      when stimulated, help the Qi flow optimally

* Having free-flowing Qi allows you to remain in homeostasis which is a medical term for being in       balance.

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Do the acupuncture treatments hurt?

As you rest, your muscles will relax which influences how you interpret the sensations that you'll feel and yes...there are sensations - they can be subtle or strong. Sensations are considered good in that it indicates that the Qi is moving. If at any time, a needle continues to feel uncomfortable, please let me know and I will remove it.

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Is Myofascial Release different from massage?

Yes, I do John Barnes Myofascial Release bodywork and it is different from massage. With massage, typically, oil is used to slide along muscles and work the tissue in such a way to help the body relax. With Myofascial Release, no oil or lotion is used - it's just a hand-to-skin technique that feels for the release of the fascial tissue. I don't work over clothing (I always drape the body). The work is fairly gentle and is never meant to hurt. The intention is to restore the mobility and hydration to the fascia which helps the body regain range of motion.

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How long are the treatments?

My combination treatment of acupuncture and myofascial release is 90 mins long.  

If you would prefer a 1 hour treatment, I can do acupuncture or a combination of myofascial release and massage but I typically don't combine acupuncture and bodywork in a 60 min session.

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What should I wear to have a treatment? Do I keep my clothes on during a treatment?

For Myofascial Release, I do a postural analysis which has the patient standing to be able to see holding patterns in the body. For women, it's preferable to wear shorts and a sports bra-type top. For men, wearing shorts is optimal. You can remain in these clothes for the treatment.

Acupuncture points are found all over the body but the most common points are on the arms/hands and legs/feet. I also needle the head and ears often. 

With all treatments, you are on a massage table and I have the ability to drape you fully.

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Do you treat chronic illness?

Yes - I can work with you during chronic illnesses as long as your primary care doctor or specialist knows that you are  receiving acupuncture/bodywork in addition to medical treatment and is in agreement with you receiving it.

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What else should I know?

Basic facts:

1. All needles are disposable

2. Sensations when needles are inserted are considered good

3. In Chinese medicine, bleeding is considered healthy - some points may bleed briefly and it's OK

4. Your comfort and healing are most important​​