What is Acupuncture?

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Acupuncture is part of an ancient system of medicine that originated in China thousands of years ago.  Chinese medical theory is based on the belief that a vital energy, or Qi, exists within all living beings.  

Proper circulation of Qi via a system of channels, or meridians, that run throughout the body ensures healthy body function.  Disease or pain ensues when Qi is depleted or circulation becomes disrupted or blocked by any number of factors, such as stress, poor or unhealthy lifestyle or trauma.  

Acupuncture itself refers to the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body in order to restore and balance this flow of Qi.  By doing so, harmony within the body is restored and the body can heal itself.   As a result, pain or disease is alleviated.  Acupuncture restores health, prevents disease, and promotes overall well-being.  Herbal medicine, dietary changes, and lifestyle counseling are also incorporated to help you improve your health. 

Services

Private Acupuncture Session
Initial Consultation & Treatment:  90 - 120 minutes
Follow-up Acupuncture Treatment:  45 - 60 minutes

Because we practice a whole body medicine, much of your initial visit will involve an examination of all aspects of your health.  In addition, we examine your tongue and pulse, which are two major diagnostics tools in Oriental Medicine. Treatment will be based on this comprehensive examination and tailored to address your main concerns. 
To schedule an appointment, please contact us at 619.438.0228.  

New Patients:  Click here to download the New Patient packet.  

Sama-Sama:  Group Acupuncture & Reiki
For more information on our community acupuncture sessions, please visit our
Sama-Sama page.  
As a holistic, or whole body medicine, acupuncture can be used to treat and is effective for a wide range of conditions.  According to the World Health Organization, these include, but are not limited to:

Reproductive/
Genitourinary:
  • infertility (men & women)
  • urinary tract infection
  • cystitis
  • menstrual irregularity
  • Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
  • impotence, low libido
Gastrointestinal/
Digestive:
  • nausea/vomiting
  • constipation or diarrhea
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • hiccough/indigestion
  • acid regurgitation
  • colitis, gastritis
Mental/Emotional:
  • insomnia
  • stress
  • anxiety
  • depression
Addiction:
  • drug and alcohol addiction
  • smoking cessation
Other:
  • hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • hypotension (low blood pressure)
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Musculoskeletal:
  • headache/migraine
  • back pain
  • fibromyalgia
  • sciatica
  • acute injury (sprains/strains)
  • chronic pain (of any kind)
  • tendonitis
Neurological:
  • Bell's Palsy
  • paralysis/post-stroke recovery
  • neuropathy
  • Meniere's Disease
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis
Eye Disorders:
  • acute conjunctivitis
  • cataracts (without complications)
Respiratory:
  • asthma
  • allergies
  • acute sinusitis
  • rhinitis
  • common cold
  • acute bronchitis
For a complete list of conditions, please visit the World Health Organization website. 

Cosmetic Acupuncture & Cupping:  Your Natural Solution to Feeling and Looking Healthy!

Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture -
    
Restore your outer glow from within!

Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture is a specialized system of cosmetic acupuncture based on Traditional Chinese Medicine.  It is your non-surgical alternative to reduce the signs of aging, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and improve your overall skin complexion and texture.  An added benefit is an improvement in your overall health!

Each session begins with a full-body treatment to rebalance your body's energy and enhance the effect of the Mei Zen system.  In addition, enjoy a relaxing facial massage using products based on Chinese herbal formulas for beauty and revitalization.  

Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture protocols for the are the neck and abdomen are also available. Reduce the appearance of jowls and improve the condition of your skin with the Mei Zen Neck protocol.  Digestion, especially symptoms of  IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), weight loss, and toning of the abdomen can be addressed with the Mei Zen Abdominal protocol.  

Cosmetic acupuncture is not for everyone.  To find out if Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture is right for you, please call 619.438.0228 for a free consultation. For best results, a minimum series of 10 treatments over a period of 5 weeks (2 sessions/week) is recommended.  Prepaid packages are available with a 10% discount. 
Cosmetic Cupping -
Lesley at the EnlighTea: Tea Talk Show on Anti-Aging!
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Supplemental Techniques

In addition to acupuncture, the following techniques may be incorporated into your treatment if determined to be appropriate for your condition.

Moxibustion -
    An aspect of Oriental Medicine that involves warming regions and acupuncture points using a specialized form of the herb Ai Ye (mugwort).  The intention of this treatment is stimulating circulation through the acupuncture points and inducing a smoother flow of blood and Qi.

Tui Na -
     A hands-on-body treatment that is one of the modalities of Chinese medicine.  The origins of tui na can be traced to Eastern martial arts schools where it was used to treat and manage injuries from training.  Using acupressure and other techniques, the purpose is to bring the body into balance and promote circulation throughout the body, particularly for musculo-skeletal conditions. 

Auricular Acupuncture -
     One of the more widely used microsystems within Eastern medicine. Microsystems use one aspect of the body - for example, the ears, hands or feet - to treat conditions that are present anywhere in the body.  This system is featured in our Sama-Sama Acupuncture Sessions.  
Cupping -
     A method of applying acupressure by creating a vacuum next to the patient's skin. This therapy is used to relieve what is called "stagnation" and is used in the treatment of, but not limited to:
  • common cold
  • pneumonia
  • bronchitis
  • back, neck, shoulder, and other
  • musculoskeletal pain
Gua Sha - 
     A traditional Oriental bodywork technique used in many parts of Asia as a home remedy.  Most often used for, but not limited to, muscle soreness and tension, it can be applied to many parts of the body.