Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of small, thin needles into the skin on various points on the body. The goal of acupuncture is to stimulate and balance the flow of qi, or "vital energy," throughout the acupuncture meridians.
There are many different styles of acupuncture; at AcuCascadia we tend to practice a blend of Japanese Meridian Therapy, traditional Chinese style and Five Element Acupuncture.
Shonishin- Pediatric Acupuncture
Shonishin is a form of non-insertive acupuncture used primarily to treat children, but can also be used for adults who are sensitive to more traditional acupuncture. Brenda Loew, MAc, EAMP/ LAc, a leading instructor and practitioner on the west coast, defines Shonishin as “painless, non-invasive needle therapy involving gentle stimulation of infant’s and children’s skin surface with specialized tools, used to strengthen and harmonize vital energy, promote wellness and treat childhood illnesses and imbalances.”
AcuCascadia is one of the only acupuncture clinic in Bend that has an acupuncturist, David Gaines, who specializes in Shonishin and pediatrics.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is commonly used in Chinese medicine as a form of heat therapy. Small amounts of a spongy, dried herb called moxa, or mugwort, is burned on or over the skin. It feels warming and comfortable and the goal is to invigorate and support the flow of qi in the body and the meridians. We use this therapy often at AcuCascadia, especially for pain and digestive issues.
Cupping
Cupping is an ancient Asian therapy that has recently become more popular in the West. It involves using heat to create a vacuum in a glass cup which is then applied to the body. The cups are sometimes left in one place and other times they are slid across the skin in a form of massage. The gentle suction from the cups helps to open up circulation of blood, fluids and qi in the muscles and soft tissue making it especially helpful for painful conditions.
Bodywork
Both David and Carli have trained in Asian and Western bodywork techniques such as Shiatsu, Sotai, Qi Gong Tuina, myofascial release and more. All of these styles of massage focus on opening up circulation and qi flow and help aid in relaxation and pain management. We find that hands-on bodywork complements acupuncture and can improve outcomes so we often incorporate some amount of massage into our regular treatments.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine is frequently used in conjunction with acupuncture. While acupuncture can help move qi and reduce pain and other symptoms, herbal formulas can be pivotal to changing underlying patterns of imbalance and helping you reach a more sustained state of wellness. We strive to use the highest quality Chinese and Western herbs and supplements and will often create custom herbal formulas to fit your exact needs. To find out more about the herbs and products we use, please feel free to check out our most commonly used suppliers: Golden Cabinet Herbal Pharmacy, Classical Pearls, Metagenics, and Kan Herbs.
Nutritional Counseling and Health Coaching
Food is often used as medicine in Asian cultures and can be an influential factor for your health and healing. As seasons change, or as our bodies fight illness or other factors, we need different foods and cooking techniques to improve digestion and maximize wellbeing. Because of this, nutrition recommendations are often a part of your treatment plan. Carli is also a Certified Health Coach and has experience working directly with nutrition and lifestyle counseling to help improve wellness and manage symptoms, promote weight balance and help individuals take control over their health. Please contact us for more information about Health Coaching or to schedule a consultation.