Questions, answered.

Acupuncture involves placing fine, sterile, single-use needles at specific points on the body. It is rooted in Chinese medicine, where pain and illness are understood in part through changes in the flow of qi, often translated as vital energy.

If your experience with needles comes from vaccinations or blood draws, it’s understandable to feel apprehensive. Acupuncture needles are solid and generally much thinner than the hollow needles used for injections. They don’t inject medication or draw blood, and the experience can feel quite different.

You may notice a brief pinch, an ache, heaviness, or tingling. I check in with you as I place and adjust the needles, using your feedback to keep the sensations comfortable. Once the needles are in place, there is time to rest. Some people find this deeply relaxing or meditative, and some fall asleep.

Orthopedic and sports acupuncture builds on traditional Chinese medicine with a particular emphasis on anatomy, muscles, joints, and how you move. Alongside traditional acupuncture points, treatment may include points within muscles, such as motor points.

Palpation is a central part of my assessment. I use my hands to feel for areas of tension and tenderness, helping guide where and how I treat.

I consider the body as a whole, including how areas beyond the site of pain may contribute to your symptoms — for example, how hip or ankle movement may relate to knee discomfort.

Dry needling typically focuses on sensitive areas within muscles called trigger points. Orthopedic acupuncture can include similar muscle-focused needling, alongside traditional acupuncture points.

In my practice, palpation (examining tissues through touch) guides assessment and treatment. I consider the body as a whole, including how other areas may contribute to your symptoms. For example, hip or ankle movement may relate to knee discomfort.

Treatment may also include acupuncture points selected to encourage relaxation, or supportive techniques such as Reiki when appropriate. My approach considers both your physical concerns and how you feel throughout treatment.

In California, a physical therapy or chiropractic license alone does not authorize dry needling.

My practice focuses on musculoskeletal concerns including neck, shoulder, back, hip, knee, or foot pain; limited mobility; and discomfort related to overuse or injury. People also come in for longstanding pain, sciatica, and support during recovery from an injury.

You don’t need to be an athlete—discomfort from desk work or everyday activities is just as relevant. Treatment is tailored to your symptoms and goals, with a focus on helping you move more comfortably.

You can explore the common concerns I work with on the What to Expect page. If you’re unsure whether my approach fits your concern, please contact me before booking.

Yes. I offer moving fire cupping, which may be included as part of your appointment when appropriate for your concerns and treatment goals. You don’t need to book it separately or choose a technique beforehand. You can read about all the treatment methods I use.

Acupuncture needles are fine and solid, very different from the hollow needles used for injections or blood draws. You may feel a brief pinch on insertion, followed by an ache, heaviness, warmth, or tingling. These sensations can be noticeable without being painful.

As I insert and adjust the needles, I ask how each one feels and use your feedback to guide the level of stimulation. The aim is a sensation you feel comfortable with, and I adjust anything that feels painful or too intense.

Feeling a little apprehensive before your first visit is completely natural. I never rush. Your appointment is approximately 90 minutes. We begin by discussing your health history, symptoms, and goals, followed by an assessment and treatment. I’ll explain the approach and answer your questions along the way.

Most first-time patients are surprised by how comfortable and deeply relaxing the session actually is. If you have questions before scheduling, you are always welcome to reach out through the Contact page.

Please wear comfortable, loose clothing that allows access to the area being treated. If clothing needs to be removed to access an area for treatment, I provide a sheet for coverage. Have a light snack or meal beforehand so you aren't arriving on an empty stomach, and complete your secure intake forms in Jane prior to arriving.

There isn’t a set number. The number of sessions depends on your concern, how long it has been present, and how you respond to treatment. An acute strain or a recent flare-up often responds in a few sessions, while longstanding pain, older injuries, or more complex concerns may require regular visits over a longer period.

After your first appointment, we’ll discuss realistic expectations and a plan tailored to your goals. I reassess at each visit and adjust the plan based on your progress.

I am an out-of-network provider and do not bill insurance directly. However, I can provide an itemized superbill upon request with diagnostic and procedure codes following your visit, which you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement depending on your out-of-network acupuncture benefits.

You may feel less tension, easier movement, or a sense of calm. Some people feel deeply relaxed or sleepy afterward. Mild soreness or small bruises at needle sites can also occur.

Plan to take it easy for the rest of the day. Drink water, eat a nourishing meal, and avoid alcohol and strenuous exercise—even if you feel ready to do more. Give yourself time to rest and notice how you feel the following day. If you feel sleepy or lightheaded, wait until you feel fully alert before driving.

$165 per session. You can book your appointment through Jane.