By choosing acupuncture, you are taking a great step toward achieving a more balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Chinese medicine, including acupuncture and Chinese herbs, is the oldest continuously practiced medical system in the world and is used by 60 percent of the world's population as a primary health care system. Because of its relatively low cost and its noninvasive nature, acupuncture is a highly popular form of alternative health care in the United States. Acupuncture is a safe, effective and drug-free therapy that can help address a wide variety of common ailments and problems. As an alternative therapy, acupuncture takes into account the marvelous complexity of each person and treats the body, mind and spirit as a total, unified, holistic being. Acupuncture works preventatively and curatively, supporting our body’s own healing abilities. Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture are complementary therapeutic modalities that are often used together in treatment.

Many people come to my practice seeking to heal a chronic illness or a physical injury. Others are looking for assistance in coping with mental health concerns, such as stress, depression, or anxiety. Still others yearn for a greater sense of meaning and spiritual connection. Whatever brings you here, my hope is that acupuncture and herbal medicine will instill a renewed sense of harmony and balance in your life. My goal is to work in partnership with you as you experience new pathways to health and new possibilities for life.

Interesting Facts about Acupuncture: Did You Know?

Acupuncture is one of many forms of Chinese medicine. More people probably have been treated by Chinese medicine throughout history than by any other formalized system of medical care.

Acupuncture has been practiced in the United States for only about 30 years, as a result of the United States opening diplomatic relations with China in 1972. By contrast, acupuncture has been practiced in England for over 400 years and in France for over 900 years. Most people learn about acupuncture either through someone who has personally benefited from treatment or through recent media attention. Patients who receive regular, ongoing acupuncture treatment for health maintenance and health promotion often experience:

• Being sick less often and recovering more quickly;
• An improvement of vitality and stamina;
• The ability to take care of their own health more effectively;
• More harmonious relationships with others;
• # A reduction in long-term health care costs.

A survey of people who receive acupuncture, conducted by Claire Cassidy, Ph.D., and reported in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine indicated that acupuncture contributed to less frequent visits to physicians and the use of fewer medications. In addition, over two thirds of those surveyed reported having avoided recommended surgery.