I trained 17 years ago in Acupuncture and Tui Na Chinese Massage, then added electrical acupuncture, microsystems acupuncture, facial/cosmetic acupuncture and more recently abdominal acupuncture. At the same time I trained in Tui Na Chinese Massage. Push-pull techniques use pressure on points all over the body with manipulation of muscles and joints – which is done through clothing. I then trained for a year in the Emmett Technique, a muscle release therapy – a more gentle treatment for muscle pain and discomfort. 

Individual treatments

Your first session begins with a confidential conversation about your lifestyle, health concerns, and medical history. We’ll then discuss the best treatment approach for you. Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, stress, or other concerns, I can work with you—regardless of age, sex, or health—to help you feel better.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?
A common worry is that acupuncture might be painful, but the needles used are extremely fine, more like a strand of hair than the syringes you might imagine. You may feel a dull ache as the needle is inserted, but this sensation usually fades within 10 minutes.

What You Can Expect After Treatment
Many people experience improvements such as better sleep, increased energy, improved digestion, and a more relaxed state of mind. Occasionally, there are temporary effects like fatigue, mild soreness, lightheadedness, or emotional release. I view these as positive signs, indicating that your body is responding to the treatment and initiating change.

A Series of Treatments
While a single session may provide some relief, lasting benefits typically come from regular treatments. Acupuncture works to unblock energy and address more than just pain—issues like stress, anxiety, hormonal imbalances, and headaches can all benefit from ongoing sessions.

Example A – Neck Ache

A client comes in with an ache along the side of their neck and pain across the top of their shoulder. During our initial chat, we discover they spend much of the day typing at a desk, and the pain tends to worsen at night. They also mention they enjoy walking, which we discuss as a possible activity to incorporate more, perhaps during lunch breaks.

In Chinese Medicine, I use diagnostic tools like observing the tongue and taking the pulse to assess the quality of the energy flow. After that, we agree on a seated treatment plan. Fine needles are placed at specific points on meridians located around the hands and feet, designed to address the underlying imbalance.

Simultaneously, I perform a Tui Na massage, focusing on the neck and shoulders, followed by 5 minutes of gentle muscle release using the Emmett Technique. We conclude the session with a few deep breaths and assess the positive change in range of movement.

Example B – Back Ache

A regular client with spinal fusions in the lower back comes in for their monthly session. We begin by discussing their current pain levels, recent activities, and how they’ve been managing the discomfort. As part of the diagnostic process, I assess their tongue and pulse to get a sense of their overall energy flow.

For treatment, I place needles along the spine to address the pain and imbalances, followed by Tui Na massage focused on the shoulders and feet to promote relaxation and improve circulation. After removing the needles, I perform a few muscle release techniques and a spinal balance to further ease tension and discomfort.

Throughout the session, the client meditates and relaxes. This regular treatment schedule helps to keep their pain manageable, and I will see them again next month to continue supporting their well-being.

Example C – Stomach Pain & Bloating

A client with food allergies and sensitivities visits for regular treatments to help manage flare-ups. After a brief chat to identify recent triggers, I perform a tongue and pulse diagnosis to assess the current state of their energy flow.

The client lies comfortably on a warm treatment table while I begin with gentle abdominal releases, followed by abdominal acupuncture with needles placed around the belly button or on specific points on the limbs. While the needles work, I may also perform a soothing neck massage to enhance relaxation. Deep breathing during the session helps create a calm and restorative experience.

This combination of techniques helps to ease the discomfort from bloating and digestive issues, providing relief and balance.