Frequently Asked Questions

---

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into the skin at specific points. Activating these points stimulates energy flow, activates your body's own innate healing abilities, and provides rebalancing.

In acupuncture, health is a state of balance where the energy flows smoothly and freely. When the flow of energy is disrupted or blocked, health issues and pain occur.

Addressing the root cause of an illness creates a more sustainable and effective path to health and well-being, rather than managing symptoms temporarily.

As an example, many people have experienced digestive symptoms (heartburn, diarrhea, bloating, lack of appetite, etc.) when they feel nervous. Often times, an antacid will be taken to help with the heartburn.

However, the antacid is only a patch. Once the antacid wears off, the heartburn will return. This is because the heartburn is a symptom, not the root cause. 

Addressing the root of the problem - the nervousness - will not only treat the heartburn, but will also bring a greater level of health to the patient overall. Other aspects of the patient's life, such as their sleep, ability to focus, and their relationships with others, will benefit from treating the root cause. 

Acupuncture needles are VERY different than needles used for vaccine injection. Acupuncture needles are very fine, sterile, and flexible needles. They are designed to minimize discomfort and reduce tissue trauma.

Acupuncture can be used to support a wide range of conditions. These include:

• gynecological conditions, such as menstrual disorders and infertility.
• gastrointestinal conditions, such as diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, and hemorrhoids.
• pain conditions, such as low back pain, neck pain, and fibromyalgia.
• emotional conditions such as stress, anxiety, depression, and nervousness.
• neurological conditions such as headaches and migraines.
• musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis and repetitive use injuries.
• cardiopulmonary conditions such as hypertension and asthma.
• immune conditions such as allergies and weakened immune systems.

Ashley specializes in working with those who care for others (healthcare workers, first responders, parents, teachers, etc.). She is also passionate about working with patients with chronic diseases who are frustrated at the management of their healthcare and looking for a different approach.

No, you do not to have a diagnosed Western medical condition or a specific symptom in order to feel the positive effects of acupuncture. 

Often times, the first symptoms of an energy imbalance are experienced through minor changes such as being a little more tired than usual, slight pain, or developing minor heartburn. We often ignore or learn to live with these symptoms as our new normal. 

These symptoms are often attributed to being a parent, getting older, going through a life change, etc., instead of realizing that these are the beginning symptoms of an imbalance. Acupuncture can help bring you back to balance before the symptoms worsen.

Most definitely! Acupuncture and Western medical care complement each other well. Ashley is committed to bridging the gap between Western medicine and acupuncture, and will collaborate with Western medicine providers whenever needed.