Qi is the vital life force energy and the cosmic breath of life. It naturally flows in balance through our bodies and every living thing, giving us our breath and our heart beat. This energy flows through channels, also known as meridians. Stress, tension, or injury in our lives can restrict or block the balanced flow of qi, leaving us feeling ill at ease or physically weak. Our goal is to see our lives as a whole and to address the causes of imbalance, not just to relieve symptoms.

Joy also utilizes an in depth history taking and diagnostic questioning to determine your Traditional Asian Medical Diagnosis and constitutional patterns. She will assess your pulse and tongue to ascertain the balance of Qi (pronounced 'chee'), Blood and Fluids in your body.

Acupuncture uses disposable hair-thin needles in specifically chosen acupuncture points to redirect the flow of qi in your body. Tui na (meridian massage) and acupressure may be incorporated into your treatment to bring about a balanced flow of qi. Acupuncture stimulates the sensory and nerve receptors in the skin and dermis where it then sends messages to the hypothlamus and pituitary system in the brain. Hormonal and chemical messengers are released to regulate the endocrine and nervous systems, reduce pain and release endorphines. Joy may also utilize electrostimulation, cupping, moxibustion or magnets to support the therapeutic effects.

It is understandable if you have a fear of needles. Joy will work with you to determine the best treatment strategy and can offer many options for treatment. She specializes in the Japanese style of needling which is characterized for being subtle and painless.

With Asian Medicine there is a treatment that can benefit anyone for a general tune-up or if there are specific issues.

According to the World Health Organization,
Acupuncture is commonly used to treat: