The Fusion of Tradition and Science.

Treatments & Modalities

The first visit consists of an initial evaluation and an acupuncture treatment. The initial evaluation lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, and includes a tongue and pulse diagnosis (a TCM way of diagnosing the energy status of the individual’s organs and overall health) as well as a discussion of one’s health history. Also, during this initial evaluation, the patient engages in an in-depth question and answer session where Dr. Lin seeks other relevant information about the individual. Often the healing process begins during this initial evaluation; patients sometimes find themselves beginning to cry or feel a weight being lifted from their shoulders. These types of reactions are common and they usually represent a release of toxins from the body. Furthermore, Dr. Lin will prescribe a customized treatment plan that estimates the number of sessions expected for an individual to achieve a particular goal.

A follow-up treatment session typically lasts 45 minutes. It will include acupuncture, and perhaps a unique combination of other TCM modalities as recommended by Dr. Lin. Children under the age of nine and patients that have a fear of needles can have acupressure or TuiNa performed in lieu of acupuncture needles.

The other natural TCM modalities that may be used are:

• Cupping
  Heat-vacuumed glass jars are applied to the muscle to release toxins and tension, and enhance circulation. Click here to learn more.
• Moxibustion
  “Moxa” herb is placed on the exposed end of a needle and burned to release essential oils, which in turn stimulates healing in certain cases.
• TuiNa
  Therapeutic manipulation by fingertips of certain acupoints, muscles, and tendons.
• Electro-Acupuncture
  One or two pairs of needles are connected to a low voltage electric device; patients remark that they feel a light buzzing or pulsating sensation.
• Customized Chinese Herbal Formulas
  Whereas acupuncture directly stimulates certain acupoints to help unblock the flow of energy, specially mixed herbal formulas assist at the cellular level.

Most patients feel little or no discomfort when the needles are inserted; rather, they find that the treatment is calming and relaxing, and many actually sleep soundly. Modern acupuncture needles are sterile and very fine – similar in width to a single strand of hair. The needles are discarded immediately after treatment in accordance with the Department of Health’s regulations.

For a session with Dr. Lin, patients should wear loose comfortable clothes, and should be neither hungry nor too full. The more relaxed a individual is, the more effective the treatment will be.

The majority of patients feel content, uplifted, and energetic after each session. However, some may feel sleepy or tired for several hours, signifying the body’s efforts to detoxify. Drinking plenty of water will ease the effects.