Acupuncture
​Acupuncture is an ancient medical system developed in China over 2,500 years ago. It is a physiological medicine and works through neural signaling. Most acupuncture points are located on or adjacent to peripheral nerve trunks or branches, which are rich in nerve supply, blood and lymphatic vessels. Acupuncture balances the autonomic nervous system and restores homeostasis. By stimulating the release of oxytocin, a hormone that regulates the parasympathetic nervous system, it lowers heart rate, reduces blood pressure and promotes relaxation. Acupuncture creates an anti-inflammatory response in the body and increases blood flow. Insertion of acupuncture needles send a signal through the nervous system to the brain, releasing chemicals such as endorphins, norepinephrine, and enkaphalin which are natural pain killers.
Dry Needling / Trigger Point Acupuncture
Dry Needling / Trigger Point Acupuncture is an advanced style of acupuncture effective in treating acute and chronic pain, as well as sports injuries. Myofascial trigger points are palpable tight bands which develop in muscles, referring pain to other areas when pressure is applied. This kind of pain often described as "knots" and "spasms" are caused from repetitive strain and injury. Release of myofascial trigger points results in a twitch and relaxation of contracted muscle fibers, increasing blood circulation, lymphatic drainage and nerve conductivity.
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Moxibustion
Moxibustion involves the burning of an herb, artemisia vulgaris (dried mugwart) on or near acupuncture points. It produces infra-red heat which travels deep into the tissues to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system. It is often used in treating women’s health issues, warming the body and strengthening the immune system, and reducing inflammation in pain and injury recovery.
Electroacupuncture
In electroacupuncture, a device is attached to the acupuncture needles to send gentle electrical current to release neurotransmitters. Electrical current stimulates and influences the cells and tissues, relaxing and promoting the body to enter a parasympathetic state. Since the electrical stimulation of acupuncture points can activate a variety of systems within the body, electroacupuncture can be used to address a variety of conditions. It has been shown to be especially effective in treating acute and chronic pain and muscle spasms.
Cupping
Fire cupping involves using glass cups and a flame to draw out oxygen to create suction that is then applied to an area of the body. The combination of mild heat and suction relaxes the muscles and is effective in treating pain, increasing circulation and lymphatic drainage. It can be used diagnostically as the darkness of the marks can reveal the level of stagnation, and whether the condition is acute or chronic. Cupping has gained popularity in the US in recent years, especially among athletes and in the Olympics. Cupping detoxifies the body by bringing toxins within the muscle tissues to the surface and strengthens the immune system. It is a great adjunct technique for treating a common cold or respiratory condition. Cupping can stop a cold from developing if done at the early onset of symptoms, and can also treat lingering cough and phlegm after a cold.
Gua Sha
Gua Sha is a technique used in East Asian Medicine to relieve pain and muscle tension. Oil is applied to the skin and a rounded edged massage tool, such as a ceramic spoon or flat smooth stone, is used to rub the skin. Gua sha improves microcirculation of the soft tissue and increases blood flow. It breaks up scar tissue and adhesions in the muscles and connective tissue. By removing stagnation, it reduces inflammation associated with chronic pain and promotes healing. This technique is commonly done on the neck, shoulders and back. It can produce temporary markings on the skin called petechiae, which disappear after a few days and is associated with improved blood flow. Clinical trials have shown that gua sha stimulates the production of heme-oxygenase-1, an antioxidant that is part of the anti-inflammatory cascade. Since gua sha encourages sweating, it is effective for treating fevers. It is unique in that it stimulates the immune system through fascia and connective tissue.
Ari runs a boutique acupuncture clinic and her approach is to treat one person at a time. The one hour session consists of two rounds of acupuncture, including a front and back treatment which offers a relaxing and comprehensive experience. Modalities such as moxibustion, electroacupuncture, cupping and/or gua sha are incorporated with acupuncture based on the individual's needs.
Initial Acupuncture Session
$145 - 75 minutes
Follow-up Acupuncture Session
$95 - 60 minutes