Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine
Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine are the two main parts of the Traditional Chinese Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive and effective medical system which has been used in China for over five thousand years in treating diseases, preventing illness, and improving well-being.

Traditional Chinese Medicine takes into consideration all aspects of a person's physical, mental, and emotional well-being, both in assessment and treatment. It ultimately relies on the body's natural healing ability to maintain health and protect against disease.

Unlike Western medicine which tends to use drugs and surgery as needed, Chinese Medicine tends to use acupuncture and herbs which have been demonstrated as safe, effective, inexpensive, and non-invasive alternatives to expensive drugs and surgery. Therefore, people who have not been helped by Western medicine can benefit from acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine.


How do acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine work?
Acupuncture is based on the principal that bodily functions are regulated by an energy called "Qi" which flows through the body. Disruptions of this flow are believed to be responsible for disease. By insertion and manipulation of the needles on the precise points (acupoints) on the body where Meridians (channels of energy) run through, acupuncture can restore energy balance (Qi) and removes the blockage of energy flow to promote healing and physical and emotional well-being.

Recent studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can:
  • Cause neurological pain-control centers to release pain-relieving endorphins.
  • Improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
  • Stimulate and strengthen the immune system.
  • Affect levels of glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides and hormones in the blood.
  • Balance nervous system, endocrine and gastrointestinal function.

Is acupuncture safe?
Yes! Acupuncture absolutely has no harmful side effects. Acupuncturists are strictly licensed by state regulatory board and the needle handling must follow the standards of clean needle techniques (CCAOM). All needles at Dr. Wang’s Acupuncture Clinic are individually packed, pre-sterilized, and disposed of after use. The skin is cleaned with 70% alcohol before the needles are inserted.

Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very thin, as thin as a thick human hair. They are different from hypodermic needle. You either feel nothing or just a slight sense of pressure, heaviness, or tingling. The needles remain in place for 15-20 minutes. A sense of calm and relaxation is often felt during and after the treatment.

First Visit
During your first visit, the doctor will discuss your health with you and obtain a complete picture of your needs and behaviors that may contribute to your condition. You need to inform the doctor all treatments or medications you are taking and all medical conditions you have.

The first treatment is about 60-80 minutes, and the following treatments are 40-60 minutes.


How many treatments will you need?
Usually, patients feel significantly better after one to four treatments. The number of treatments depends on the nature of the illness or pain and patient’s state of health. Sometimes, a patient may experience more frequent bowel movement or urination, feel sleepy, or feel a slightly and temporary intensification of the symptoms or pain. These are the indications that your body is trying to achieve a proper healing balance. These are the signs that the acupuncture or herbal medicine is beneficial to you and your healing process has started.