Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture in Oakland & San Rafael California
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive group of treatment and diagnostic modalities dating back over 2,000 years ago. It is widely practiced in the United States and around the world, and is generally accepted as a safe and effective treatment alternative and complement to Western medical therapies.
Balance is the core underlying belief and practice in TCM therapies. Acupuncture works along the body's meridians, which carry vital substances and energy throughout the body. By regulating and balancing these meridians and organ systems we help to restore the body to its' finest working condition, and by doing so we facilitate the body's ability to heal itself.
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Balance is the core underlying belief and practice in TCM therapies. Acupuncture works along the body's meridians, which carry vital substances and energy throughout the body. By regulating and balancing these meridians and organ systems we help to restore the body to its' finest working condition, and by doing so we facilitate the body's ability to heal itself.
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ACUPUNCTURE |
HERBAL MEDICINE |
FAQ |
AcupunctureAcupuncture is the procedure of inserting very fine, single use disposable needles into the skin and muscle tissue to stimulate acupuncture points and meridians. Acupuncture needles are just one way of accessing the Qi of the body, our inherent life-force energy and helping to bring this vital substance into balance.
The needles are inserted and often manipulated to produce a certain sensation of energy in the body. The needles are then retained in the body for anywhere from 15 - 45 minutes. Most patients find acupuncture treatments to be quite pleasant, experiencing a sensation of deep relaxation once the needles are placed. Although there can be some discomfort with the needling procedure, it is minimal and well tolerated. |
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Electro-AcupunctureElectro-Stimulation is applying small electrodes to needles inserted in the body to complete a circuit. Small scale electricity is run through the points which effects the muscles underneath. E-stim can be used to heavily stimulate points on the body to create a greater effect from the acupuncture, or it can be used at higher frequencies to reduce nerve sensitivity and thus block pain (e-stim acupuncture is actually used in China for anesthesia!) E-stim also has an immaculate effect on those affected by paralysis, specifically chronic Bell's Palsy.
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Dry Needling, Motor & Trigger Point NeedlingDry needling, motor and trigger point needling is a specific acupuncture technique to stimulate specific muscle groups, fascia and tissues. This technique is very popular in orthopedic treatments and sports medicine treatments as it is specific to the muscles and joints. This technique may produce an intense sensation upon needling, which often quickly subsides. It is very effective for muscular pain, stimulating muscle to fire properly and helping muscles stop over-firing. If you're an athlete looking to enhance performance, dry needling is a must!
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Chinese Herbal Medicine & SupplementsTo support your treatment at home we may prescribe traditional Chinese herbal formulas and / or supplements. We integrate with Fullscript to offer the best quality supplements delivered direct to you. Herbal medicine is a long standing tradition and can be useful to correct imbalance, treat symptoms and enhance overall wellness. Formulas are prescribed based on your specific intentions and presentation and are closely monitored and updated as indicated.
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Frequently Asked Questions &
Commonly Treated Conditions
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What does acupuncture feel like?
Acupuncture needles are metal, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. Some people feel the initial pinch of the needle insertion while others do not, certain point are also more sensitive than others, such as those on the fingers and toes versus those on the abdomen. After needles are inserted it is common to feel a tingling, buzzing, tickling, heavy or pulling sensation at the needle site, this sensation is called "De Qi" and signifies the arrival of vital Qi to the area. |
Photo: www.acupuncture-treatment.com
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When can I expect results?
Most people will feel some effect from the treatment almost instantaneously, this effect can be as simple as relaxation to a more dramatic relief of pain or other symptoms. Every patient and every treatment is different, so there is no hard and fast rule as to what your results will be. Results can often be more dramatic in the first few treatments but fade away more quickly, this is why follow up treatments are key to acupuncture therapy. With follow up treatments we can ensure the benefits of your treatment will last longer and be more effective. Again, everyone is different and Kim will discuss your treatment protocol at your first appointment.
Most people will feel some effect from the treatment almost instantaneously, this effect can be as simple as relaxation to a more dramatic relief of pain or other symptoms. Every patient and every treatment is different, so there is no hard and fast rule as to what your results will be. Results can often be more dramatic in the first few treatments but fade away more quickly, this is why follow up treatments are key to acupuncture therapy. With follow up treatments we can ensure the benefits of your treatment will last longer and be more effective. Again, everyone is different and Kim will discuss your treatment protocol at your first appointment.
Is it safe?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners in 1996. The FDA requires that sterile, nontoxic needles be used and that they be labeled for single use by qualified practitioners only. Relatively few complications from the use of acupuncture (around 2%) have been reported to the FDA in light of the millions of people treated each year and the number of acupuncture needles used.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners in 1996. The FDA requires that sterile, nontoxic needles be used and that they be labeled for single use by qualified practitioners only. Relatively few complications from the use of acupuncture (around 2%) have been reported to the FDA in light of the millions of people treated each year and the number of acupuncture needles used.
Commonly Treated Conditions
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General Wellness
Circulatory Disorders
Pediatric Patients Teenage Patients
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Gynecological / Genitourinary Disorders
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Addiction
Emotional, Mental & Spiritual
Musculoskeletal and Neurological Disorders
Respiratory Disorders
Dermatology / Cosmetic Acupuncture
Immune Disorders
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