ACUPUNCTURE

Rebalance your body and mind

Acupuncture is one of many modalities in a larger system of health called Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been practiced in China for over 2,500 years and is still widely used there today alongside Western medicine. Acupuncture is a technique used to balance the flow of vital energy, also know as life force or Qi. The purpose of acupuncture is to remove blockages and balance the flow of Qi which assists in regulating your emotional, mental, and physical wellness.

In addition to acupuncture, other modalities are used to help rebalance the body such as cupping, gua sha, moxibustion, and herbal medicine. TCM looks to restore the body’s natural rhythm to reach a state of balance, known as homeostasis. It is in this state that all healing occurs.

Over its 2,500 years of development, a wealth of experience has accumulated in the practice of acupuncture, attesting to the wide range of diseases and conditions that can be effectively treated with this approach.

The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture’s effectiveness for over 40 common disorders, including:

anxiety
arthritis
allergies
chronic fatigue
colds
depression
digestive issues
fertility
headache
morning sickness
nausea
pain
reproductive issues
sleep disorders
smoking cessation
stress
tennis elbow
tooth pain
and many others

Women’s Health & Menstrual Cycle Concerns

Women go through a multitude of transitions throughout life. These changes affect both physical and emotional well-being. From the first menses to the cessation of menses, from trying to conceive to pregnancy and postpartum, each phase has its own challenges and needs customized care. Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture offer an individualized approach to support women in every cycle of life.

Traditional Chinese medicine offers a unique approach to regulating the menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle is a strong barometer of a woman’s overall health. It can give valuable insight into imbalances or internal issues that may not be recognized by other forms of medicine and may not show up on typical lab work or testing. We use the menstrual cycle to guide our treatments and bring the body into its most balanced state. Many women suffer with premenstrual symptoms like pain, heavy periods or other reproductive system disorders. These may be common but are not normal in a healthy body. With regular treatments and customized herbal formulas, periods will become more regular and result in improved overall wellness. 

Regular treatments can help with:

  • Irregular or painful periods
  • Premenstrual symptoms (PMS)
  • Ovulation concerns
  • PCOS
  • Stress & anxiety

Pregnancy

Many pregnant women choose acupuncture as a natural option to support a healthy pregnancy. Acupuncture supports a healthy pregnancy and can help to alleviate common complaints such as:

  • fatigue 
  • nausea
  • anxiety 
  • sleep disruptions 
  • digestive issues 
  • stress. 

In the second and third trimesters it can assist with physical discomfort, breech position of the baby, swelling, or anxiety that may arise when getting closer to delivery. 

In addition, treatments later in pregnancy assist with labor preparation and often result in a less painful, shorter time in labor and delivery.  Research has shown that 3-5 acupuncture treatments after 37 weeks shortens labor time (Kubista & Kucera), and acupuncture every other day after a due date reduces rate of medical induction by 57% (Rabl). Fourth trimester, or the time after pregnancy is an important time for recovery and rebalance after pregnancy.  Many women need extra support during this time in order to feel like themselves again. We view it as a necessary part of pregnancy care. Acupuncture and herbal medicine can significantly reduce postpartum concerns such as lactation issues, anxiety, sleep problems and hormonal imbalance.

TCM can help with

IRREGULAR MENSTRUAL CYCLES

PMS & MENSTRUAL PAIN

HORMONAL IMBALANCES

MENOPAUSAL CONCERNS

EMOTIONAL IMBALANCES

STRESS & ANXIETY

Facial Rejuvenation

Health and beauty are most effectively cultivated from the inside out. We use a natural, holistic, chemical free approach to revitalizing the skin. Gentle acupuncture points are used on the body and face to improve not only skin tone and texture, but also digestion, energy and sleep which are all vital for healthy skin. Facial rejuvenation treatments include acupuncture, cupping and gua sha to stimulate the body’s natural healing response.

FAQS

Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are typically not much thicker than a strand of hair, and are inserted gently. In some cases, you many not feel the needle at all. In others, there may be a sensation of tingling, warmth, heaviness, or a feeling of the qi moving throughout the body. Once the needles are in place, most people experience a feeling of relaxation and calm and many fall asleep during treatment.
Is acupuncture safe?
When performed by a fully trained, licensed and board-certified professional, acupuncture is extremely safe. All licensed acupuncturists today use individually packaged, sterile, disposable needles so there is virtually no chance of infection.
How often will I need to get acupuncture?
This will depend on the severity, onset and nature of your complaint. An acute condition may only require a few treatments. More chronic issues may need a series of 6-12 treatments. Some conditions that have been present for many years will require more treatments over time.

Most of our patients see us on a weekly basis, however, each case is unique. We may suggest dietary modifications, specific exercises, relaxation techniques, self-care, or Chinese herbal medicine, all of which will help to increase the efficacy of your acupuncture treatments.

What can acupuncture and Chinese medicine treat?
Just about everything! Chinese medicine is a complete system of medicine that has been used in Asia for thousands of years to treat a broad range of disorders. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we recognize that when the body is out of balance, it may present with a specific group of symptoms called a pattern. Our primary goal is to correct these patterns and restore balance in the body so it can begin to heal itself. As the body naturally begins to heal and regulate itself, symptoms begin to diminish and health is
restored.
What can I expect from my initial consultation and first treatment?
At your first visit, you will receive a comprehensive consultation and treatment. We will go over your medical history with you and determine the best care based on your concerns. No labs or medical documentation are necessary, but we are more than happy to look over any information that you
bring to the visit. An initial consultation and treatment lasts approximately 90 minutes. Follow up treatments will be approximately 60 minutes.
How should I prepare for my treatment?
We don’t recommend eating a large meal right before acupuncture, but we do suggest that you have something light to avoid having an empty stomach when you get your treatment. Make sure that you are well hydrated and avoid caffeine and alcohol the day of your treatment. Depending on the points chosen we may need you to remove certain articles of clothing for your treatment. If so we will provide you with appropriate cover for your privacy.
What can I expect after my treatment?
Most patients feel relaxed and calm after their treatment. It is recommended that you refrain from intense exercise, caffeine or alcohol consumption after a treatment. Patients often experience an immediate relief of pain or other symptoms, but in some cases, symptoms may diminish within hours or days. This relief can last for several days to several weeks. We will work together to determine how to best continue your improvement over time.
Do you accept insurance?
We do not accept insurance however, we are happy to provide you with a receipt that has the necessary coding for you to submit to your provider. We recommend checking with your insurance company to see if you are covered for acupuncture and, if so, what specific conditions are covered.
Will there be other people in the room while I get my treatment?
No. Our acupuncture treatments are private and you will have the space to yourself during your treatment time. We do not provide community style acupuncture and believe it is essential for you to feel comfortable and safe in order to get the best results.
I came to see Jessi after having infrequent periods and being diagnosed with PCOS. Jessi was so knowledgeable about women’s reproductive health issues, and got my body back on track! After seeing her regularly, my periods became regular and I began ovulating. Not only was my endocrine system balanced, but I also began sleeping better and experienced less stress. She is the best acupuncturist in Scottsdale!
Savannah

I came to see Jessi for weight loss and anxiety. She made me feel comfortable, answered all my questions and addressed my concerns. Jessi is the most wonderful acupuncturist. She made me fall in love with the treatments and the care I received from her was amazing.
Mary