Acupuncture and Stone Medicine

Nationally certified acupuncturists complete a rigorous Master’s Program in Acupuncture with at least 1,905 hours of education. This includes 705 hours in Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture Theory, 660 hours of supervised clinical practice, 450 hours in biomedical studies, and 90 hours focused on counseling, communication, ethics, and practice management. Practitioners must also obtain Clean Needle Technique and CPR certifications, and pass three national board exams. To maintain licensure, acupuncturists complete 60 hours of continuing education every four years. In contrast, some other healthcare providers perform “dry needling” after only a brief weekend course.

In Chinese medicine, acupuncture helps balance the body’s energy, or qi, to restore harmony and support natural healing. From a Western medical perspective, research shows that stimulating acupuncture points activates specific regions of the brain, triggering processes that relieve pain, reduce inflammation, increase circulation, release natural endorphins, relax muscles, lower stress, and even encourage the body’s own stem cell production.

While acupuncture is well-known for pain relief, it can also help with a wide variety of conditions. These include allergies, acid reflux, addiction-related issues, anxiety, chronic fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fibromyalgia, high blood pressure, IBS, low immunity, menstrual and menopausal symptoms, skin disorders, tendonitis, asthma, side effects of chemotherapy, colds and flu, depression, headaches, low libido, stress, urinary disorders, and neuropathy. In addition, Kim has advanced training in treating eye disorders such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and Coat’s Disease.

Your first visit typically lasts about 90 minutes. We’ll review your intake forms, discuss your health history and treatment goals, and develop a personalized care plan. After placing the needles, you’ll rest comfortably for 30–45 minutes. Follow-up treatments usually last 45–60 minutes. Microneedling facial sessions take about 90 minutes. Treatments take place in a private room, either in a recliner or on a massage table, and you can choose your preferred music. Wear loose-fitting clothing so acupuncture points on your arms and legs are easily accessible.

Yes! Acupuncture has been used safely for thousands of years by millions of people worldwide. When performed by a properly trained acupuncturist, it is extremely safe. The needles are sterile, single-use, and disposable. As a natural therapy, acupuncture does not cause the harmful side effects that are sometimes associated with medications.

For most people, acupuncture is virtually painless. Some needles you won’t feel at all, while others may cause a brief sensation as they’re inserted, but it fades quickly. Because the needles are very fine, it’s nothing like getting a shot. Once in place, you should feel relaxed and comfortable.

Acupuncture results build over time. Each treatment reinforces the last, so consistency is key. Acute or short-term issues may only need one to three sessions, while chronic conditions often require a longer series of about 10–12 treatments. Many patients continue with regular maintenance sessions weekly, biweekly, or monthly to sustain their progress and overall wellness.