What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one therapeutic branch under the umbrella of Chinese medicine, and one of the oldest healing arts still practiced today. The earliest written records of acupuncture date back to around 100 BCE, while archaeological evidence of acupuncture-like interventions reaches as far back as 6000 BCE.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile, single-use needles into specific points on the body to stimulate and balance the flow of qi—often translated as vital energy or life force. It has stood the test of time because of its ability to meet every body exactly where they are.

Acupuncture has not only deep clinical roots but also a powerful community history. In the mid-20th century, amidst significant social and political change in China, the government trained a generation of healthcare workers known as "barefoot doctors." These were often rural farmers trained in both basic Western medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine, including acupuncture. Their mission was to bring accessible, affordable care to underserved communities.

Acupuncture also played a significant role in the West, particularly during the opioid epidemic and in the aftermath of natural disasters and trauma. Its ability to support individuals facing physical and emotional pain has made it a vital tool for healing. This legacy reflects a deep cultural commitment to preventive medicine, grassroots healthcare, and the belief that healing belongs in the hands of the people.

Acupuncture continues to carry that spirit today—not just as a treatment, but as a tool for empowerment, reconnection with the body, and care that centers the whole person: body, mind, and spirit.

How does acupuncture work?

From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture works by regulating the flow of qi (vital energy) throughout the body. Qi travels along pathways called meridians, and when it becomes blocked, stagnant, or deficient, it can lead to pain, dysfunction, or illness. By inserting very fine needles at specific points along these meridians, acupuncture helps to restore the smooth, balanced flow of qi—supporting the body’s natural ability to heal and harmonize.

In modern biomedical terms, acupuncture has been shown to affect the nervous system, circulatory system, and connective tissue. It can stimulate the release of endorphins (natural painkillers), regulate inflammation, improve blood flow, and influence the brain regions involved in stress and emotional regulation. Modern science is just now beginning to understand and translate the wisdom of the medicine and its effects.

While the language and frameworks may differ, both traditional and modern perspectives agree: acupuncture helps bring the body back into balance and promotes healing on multiple levels—physical, emotional, and energetic.

What conditions can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture can support a wide range of conditions by helping the body restore balance, improve circulation, regulate the nervous system, and reduce inflammation. It is often used as part of a holistic approach to care, supporting not just symptoms, but the root imbalances beneath them.

Some commonly treated conditions include: fatigue, stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma support, musculoskeletal pain, joint pain, headaches, migraines, arthritis, muscle tension, bloating, gas, indigestion, acid reflux, gut imbalances, menstrual pain, menstrual irregularity, pms, hormonal imbalances, fertility support, pregnancy-related symptoms, perimenopause, menopause, allergies, sinus issues, asthma, chronic cough, frequent colds, under functioning immunity, brain fog, focus, recovery support post surgery or illness.

Acupuncture is inherently deeply individualized—so even if your specific concern isn’t listed, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to talk with you about how Chinese medicine might support your health and wellbeing.

What kind of education does an acupuncturist complete?

Licensed acupuncturists complete thousands (+3,400) of hours of rigorous education and clinical training. This typically includes a four-year Master's degree in Acupuncture or Traditional Chinese Medicine, which covers acupuncture theory and technique, herbal medicine, diagnostic skills, anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and more. Many practitioners go on to earn a clinical doctorate for advanced training in integrative care. After graduation, practitioners must pass national board exams through the NCCAOM or their state licensing board, as is the case for California (CALE exam). Ongoing continuing education is also required to maintain licensure and stay current with evolving research and clinical practices. In the state of California, licensed acupunctures are considered primary health care providers.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes, when performed by a trained and licensed practitioner, acupuncture is a very safe and low-risk therapy. I use sterile, single-use, disposable needles and follow strict clean needle technique and safety protocols.

Most people feel relaxed during and after treatment. Side effects, if any, are typically mild and short-lived—such as slight bruising, lightheadedness, or temporary soreness at the needle site.

Acupuncture is also a gentle and adaptable therapy, meaning it can be tailored to meet your comfort level, whether you’re needle-sensitive, anxious, or brand new to the experience.

If you’re pregnant, taking medications, or have a complex health condition, I’ll take all of that into consideration during your intake to ensure your treatment is appropriate and well-supported.

What does acupuncture feel like? Does it hurt?

Acupuncture is generally not painful, though the sensation can vary depending on the individual, and the area being treated. Most people describe the feeling as a mild tingling, dull ache, or a sensation of warmth or heaviness at the needle site. The dull ache is actually an ideal feeling - indicating the qi is present and active at the point. The needles used in acupuncture are EXTREMELY thin. Acupuncture needles are much finer than a typical injection needles—about 25-30 times smaller or the size of a strand of hair—and are inserted only a few millimeters into the skin, so it’s common for the treatment to feel relaxing rather than uncomfortable.

While some points may feel more sensitive than others, any sensation should be mild and temporary. Many people experience a sense of calm or relaxation during and after treatment, with some even falling asleep! If you're ever uncomfortable, please let me know, and I can adjust the treatment to ensure you're at ease.

What should I expect during my first visit?

During your first visit, we'll begin with a thorough intake, where we'll review each body system, discuss your chief health concerns, and outline your health goals. I'll take time to show you the acupuncture needles and demonstrate clean needle technique, so you feel comfortable and informed. Initial treatments are typically done with you lying face up, and needles will remain in place for about 30 minutes, giving you the opportunity to rest, restore, or have a quiet, reflective moment—whether that means sleeping or simply being present with your body. I encourage patients to focus on their breath and notice the sensations they’re experiencing. After the needles are removed, we may incorporate additional therapies like moxibustion, fire cupping, or tuina, depending on your needs. At the end of the session, we'll discuss after-care recommendations, any herbal support, or other treatments to help you continue your healing journey.

What should I do before and after a session?

Before your acupuncture session, it's important to avoid coming on an empty stomach, as this can sometimes lead to lightheadedness or dizziness. I recommend having a light meal or snack beforehand, but not eating a heavy meal. For your comfort during treatment, please wear loose-fitting clothing, particularly items that can easily be rolled up, as many acupuncture points are located on the extremities of the body.

After your session, I suggest hydrating well and giving yourself time to rest and listen to your body's cues. It’s also helpful to avoid alcohol and caffeine for a little while, as this supports the healing effects of acupuncture. Even after the needles are removed, the medicine continues to work. To help you integrate the treatment, I’ll provide you with an aftercare card with all of my personalized recommendations.

Do you accept insurance?

At this time, Hua Jai Medicine does not accept insurance. However, I’m happy to provide you with a referral to ensure that you have access to an alternative option for care. I can also provide a superbill for your insurance provider. As my practice expands, my intention is to develop more offerings, hybrid-systems, and programs that will help increase accessibility for my patients. Your well-being is my priority, and I’m committed to finding ways to make healing available to as many people as possible.

How do I book an appointment?

Please follow the link below to book through our Jane system. There you will find my availability and the option to book. Additional appointments may be available upon request, please reach out if you don’t see a suitable time.

Is acupuncture suitable for children/pregnancy?

For pregnancy, acupuncture can be a safe and supportive tool throughout all trimesters when used appropriately. It’s commonly used to address symptoms like nausea, fatigue, pain, stress, and to help prepare the body for labor. Certain points are avoided or used with caution depending on the stage of pregnancy, and a full intake is always done to ensure safety.

Alternative therapies like acupressure, shonishin, or ear seeds are often used to support pediatric health concerns with gentle, non-invasive techniques. I’m happy to refer you to trusted colleagues with specialized training in pediatric care if needed.

What other therapies do you offer?

In addition to general acupuncture, I offer a range of traditional East Asian therapies to support your health from multiple angles:

• Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture – A gentle, holistic approach to skin health that uses fine needles to improve circulation, tone, and radiance while addressing underlying imbalances that affect the skin.

• Hair Acupuncture – A specialized treatment to support scalp health, hair growth, and hormonal or stress-related patterns contributing to hair loss.

• Chinese Herbal Medicine – Customized herbal formulas tailored to your unique constitution and current symptoms, available in teas, powders, or capsules.

• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy) – A warming therapy that uses the herb mugwort to boost energy, dispel cold, ease pain, and strengthen immunity.

• Fire Cupping – A suction-based therapy that relieves muscle tension, improves circulation, and supports detoxification.

• Tuina (Therapeutic Massage) – A hands-on technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine that uses pressure, rolling, and stretching to move qi and release blockages in the muscles and meridians.

Each treatment is personalized to meet your current needs and may include a combination of these therapies based on your goals and what your body is asking for that day.

What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

While acupuncture and dry needling both use thin, sterile needles, they come from very different philosophies and approaches.

Acupuncture is a complete system of medicine rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with a rich diagnostic framework that considers the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Acupuncture points are chosen based on patterns of disharmony in the body’s qi (energy), blood, and organ systems. It can address a wide range of concerns including pain, digestion, emotional health, hormonal balance, and more.

Dry needling, on the other hand, is a modern technique primarily used by physical therapists and some other healthcare providers to target trigger points in muscles. It’s typically focused on relieving localized musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction without consideration of broader systemic patterns. Dry needling is often taught in short courses and does not require the extensive training in East Asian medicine that licensed acupuncturists receive.

TLDR: Acupuncture treats the root and the branch, aiming for whole-body balance. Dry needling is a technique focused mostly on releasing tight muscle knots.