Boston Harbor Acupuncture

Adjunctive Therapies

Most patients of Boston Harbor Acupuncture have at least one of the following therapies included in their treatment.  These techniques offer a range of applications, customized to your particular case, that enhance your core treatment.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion involves the heating of acupuncture points with smoldering mugwort herb (known as moxa). Moxibustion stimulates circulation, counteracts cold and dampness in the body, and promotes the smooth flow of blood and qi. This safe, non-invasive technique may be used alone, but it is generally used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment.  I use multiple techniques to administer moxa and often suggest at-home treatment to supplement what we can do in the clinic.  I love moxa ... and you will too!

Auricular acupuncture

 The ear is one of the most widely used microsystems of acupuncture.  It is viewed as a reflection of the whole body and observation and palpation of areas of the ear are useful for diagnosis and effective for treatment.  I use ear points on most patients and often provide pressballs or presstacks to provide continuous stimulation of the points after your appointment.  

Tui Na

Tui na means "pushing grasping," and is a powerful form of Chinese medical bodywork. Based on the same Chinese medical principles as acupuncture, tui na seeks to improve the flow of qi through the meridian channels. Tui na is particularly effective for conditions involving muscles, tendons and joints, such as structural misalignment, orthopedic problems and sports injuries. It can also be used to treat internal diseases.  I tend to do at least a little massage on most patients.

Shiatsu

Touch is the most instinctive form of healing.  This is the underlying premise of the modality called Shiatsu, a Japanese form of body work based on the principals of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  I practice Zen Shiatsu developed by Shizuto Masunaga, a psychology professor and shiatsu practitioner who blended psychology, orthodox shiatsu practice and his understaning of western physiology.  I tend to do at least a little massage on most patients and choose between Tui Na and Shiatsu based on the patient and their particular need.

Cupping

Cupping is an ancient technique, used in many cultures, in which a special cup is applied to the skin and held in place by suction. The suction draws superficial tissue into the cup, which may either be left in place or moved along the body. Cupping brings fresh blood to the area and helps improve circulation. Traditional cupping, sometimes referred to as “fire cupping," uses heat to create a vacuum-like suction inside of glass cups. In modern times, cups that use a small pump to create suction have been introduced and this is what I use.