Services

I use the term Acupuncture as shorthand to refer to the range of services and modalities that comprise Traditional Chinese and East Asian Medicine. When we meet, we’ll determine which modalities are best suited for your current condition and circumstances. Among the services you may receive during your treatments:

Acupuncture

The insertion of sterile needles at particular points to help you achieve, regain, and maintain good health. These points are selected based on your unique needs, and will change from week to week. The needles may be gently stimulated. In some cases the needle will be inserted and immediately removed. In other cases the needles may be retained for some period of time, generally about twenty minutes. I use very thin needles and clients find the treatments to be comfortable and relaxing. Many clients get great naps during their treatment time.

Acupressure

This is the stimulation of points without the insertion of needles. This can take different forms, including some which can be used outside of the treatment room. For example, you may be familiar with the use of “Sea Bands,” a widely available wrist band sold to reduce seasickness and other types of nausea.

Auricular therapy

This term refers to acupuncture or acupressure using points on the ears.

Essential Oils

The use of essential oils is another great needle-less treatment technique. The oils can be used on acupuncture points, or in larger areas. In addition to some of the more widely available essential oils, I have blends that have been specially formulated to work within the Five Element and Eight Principle frameworks of Chinese Medicine.

Cupping

Cupping is found in many traditions. It is the use of glass, plastic, or silicon cups to create a gentle suction on the skin. This can be used to open pores, increase blood flow, clear stagnation, and as a massage aid. Cupping may leave circular marks on the skin which will fade over a few days.

Moxabustion

Moxabustion is the burning of an herb, moxa, to bring heat and qi to a particular area. It can be used at specific points, along entire meridians, or in particular areas of the body.

Coaching

What happens outside of the office plays a big role in the effectiveness of your treatment. If you’d like, we can explore what habits and behaviors will support increased health, and which might be working against your well-being. Diet, rest, mindfulness, your professional and family life, exercise, and other medical care can all be explored from a Five Element perspective.

Gua Sha and Tui Na

These are traditional massage techniques that may be incorporated into your acupuncture treatment.

Herbal Medicine

Herbal Medicine is a complex and important part of Chinese Medicine. Although I may on occasion recommend herbal remedies, I am not an herbalist. In situations where we determine that herbs would be helpful I am likely to refer you to a specialist who will work with us to develop an appropriate formula.

Telehealth and Remote Treatment

Essential oils, acupressure, and coaching can all be provided remotely.

I have been treated by Elaine for several years for back pain. Elaine is experienced, professional and connected to her patients. She adjusts treatment to real life situations and provided an environment of positive results. I recommend her without reservation.

—JC

Elaine specializes in care for my son who is 11. Her expertise in the field sets her lengths apart from all other practices we have used in the past. Her office is pleasant and inviting with a plethora of reading material on the subject of acupuncture and Chinese methods. We thoroughly enjoy visiting her!

—ED