A therapeutic technique originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific, energy pathways (called meridians) in the body. Acupuncture balances the flow of energy (Qi) along these energy meridians in the body
Acupuncture improves overall health, alleviates pain and treats chronic conditions such as digestive issues, headaches/migraines, allergies and asthma, reproductive and gynecological issues, anxiety, depression, skin conditions, post-stroke recovery, and immune system function etc.
Acupuncture may incorporate a combination of other treatments such as moxibustion, Chinese herbal medicine, tui na, cupping, gua sha, and lifestyle/nutritional counseling to remove obstructions and stagnations that prevent the body from functioning at its optimal level.
These are some of the common conditions that Acupuncture can treat.
Here is what you can expect during an acupuncture session at Eastern Shore Natural Health:
We will start with a thorough health intake to discuss your symptoms, health history and lifestyle. Needles will then be then be inserted into anatomical and diagnostic points specific to your condition and retained for about 25 minutes.
While you are relaxing with the needles the practitioner will generally perform moxibustion (unless contraindicated) and acupressure on the neck and shoulder muscles. Moxibustion, also called “moxa,” is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy that involves the burning of the mugwort plant (Artemisia argyi) on or near specific acupuncture points. The heat generated from the incense-like stick of moxa is used to stimulate circulation and promote the flow of energy (Qi) to promote healing.
Needles may be placed on the opposite side of the body, after turning over, and retained for another 10 minutes (condition specific).
After the needles are removed, the practitioner will perform a short Tui Na (pronounced twee-nah) massage. Tui Na is a traditional therapeutic massage that balances the body’s vital energy (Qi) along the meridian pathways using pushing, kneading, and stretching techniques in order to clear blockages and promote optimal blood flow throughout the body.
I've been seeing Ben for 7 years and in that time, I've struggled with several overuse injuries/pain from long distance running and triathlons. Whether it's hip pain, hamstring pain, knee pain, Achilles/heel pain, shoulder pain, Ben has addressed it all. His ability to pinpoint pain and release it (usually with 1 or 2 visits) is beyond compare.
He takes time to educate me during each session which helps me understand the root cause so I can watch for re-injury. His dedication to his own education and growth keeps him on top of new techniques to try which makes each visit unique and tailored to what I need. Even after 7 years, I leave each visit with insight about my body and another recommendation to try at home. I can't imagine being able to continue to train the amount I do without Ben as a part of my recovery process.
Ben is an amazing healer! With his expertise in a multitude of healing approaches, he is able to use his experience and healing gift to help you recover from many complicated ailments that other practitioners fail at. He is one of the most dedicated, caring and compassionate people I know and I highly recommend Ben for a partner on your healing team.
I'm a marketing professional and a cycling enthusiast. Ben has worked with me on low back and neck pain and I always come away from our sessions with relaxed muscles and reduced pain. He's also helped me work through some issues related to stress and excessive antibiotic use. He has an extremely calming demeanor and has a special touch when working on my trouble spots. His knowledge of the human body and how all its systems work together is truly amazing.
