Traditional Chinese Medicine has been developing for over 3,000 years. The practice incorporates the use of herbal formulas, acupuncture (with or without electrical-stimulation), cupping, tui na (meridian massage), nutrition and lifestyle recommendations. These applications target imbalances of energies and substances of the body’s meridian system to assist the persistent and inherent forces that are working to accomplish homeostasis inside us. This alternative medicine is often sought and revered by those looking for a safe, effective and sustainable treatment that is natural, holistic, and less invasive.  

Absolutely! Each needle is incredibly thin and pre-sterlized while the skin is prepped with alcohol before needle insertion. Your licensed practitioner has been properly trained with years of experience. The risks are low and the most common side effects are minimal and may include soreness or bruising.

Your first visit will include a consultation and treatment. Your acupuncturist will ask about health history, medications, and lifestyle to understand the patterns and habits that make up who you are so she can customize treatments specific to your needs and achieve the desired results. Treatments may include acupuncture, herbal consultation and prescription, cupping, infrared light therapy, gua sha (myofascial scrapping technique), tui na (massage), nutritional advice, self care recommendations, and ear seeds.

Acupuncture and herbal treatments can help with chronic or acute pain and the regulation of internal organ function. Simply put, treatments can benefit just about everyone. Here’s a small list to get an idea:

Addiction cessation and withdrawal symptoms

Allergies

Autoimmune disorders

Cough and congestion

Digestive problems

Eye disorders

Fatigue

Fibromyalgia

Hair loss

Headaches

Immune system support

Infertility

Inflammation

Injuries/traumas

Menstrual irregularities

Migraines

Menopause symptoms

Mental health

Muscle & joint pain/tension relief

Nausea and vomiting

Pain management

Pregnancy support

Skin conditions

Sleep disorders

Stress management

TMJ syndrome

Urogenital conditions

Weight loss

Tell your practitioner your concerns and they will design a treatment plan specifically for you. Occasionally, referrals to other specialists will be recommended.

It is common to feel relaxed and perhaps even tiresome after treatment. Because of this, it’s best to plan so you can rest and restore while your body detoxes and heals immediately following acupuncture treatment. Note that it is rare, but not uncommon to feel a bit worse before better since your body is eliminating toxins and adjusting the imbalances it has acquired over time. You should remain optimistic in these cases that your body has received an effective treatment, but needs & deserves time to recuperate. Always reach out to your practitioner with any questions or concerns following treatment.

Normally, needle insertion is pain free with an occasional pinching sensation. Once inserted, it is advantageous to have some sensation near the site. A dull, achy or heavy feeling is common and means the qi has arrived!

Sometimes immediately and sometimes it’ll take a few days. Everyone reacts to acupuncture differently, but you can expect to experience improvement within 72 hours of each session.

Wearing loose fitting clothing is recommended for your comfort and acupuncture points can be accessed with ease. In some cases, you will be left to undress privately and begin under sheets and a blanket.

Any contagious skin or respiratory conditions are reasons to not book a massage. Other issues will require your practitioner to simply modify the massage to avoid areas, such as cuts or bruises, or switch techniques like using less pressure around the spine for someone with degenerative disc disease. Receiving a doctor’s approval for conditions such as cancer, heart disease or pregnancy is highly recommended for extra precaution.  

All forms of massage are included in the price of your chosen time. Before you begin, you will discuss problem areas, reasons for your visit and any requests you may have. From there, your massage therapist will create a customized massage treatment based on your needs. Visit our SERVICES page to learn more about service options. 

Talking is totally fine! Remember, this is YOUR time for recovery. For some, it helps to begin the unwinding process with a little chat, but know that quieting the mind allows for a more tranquil experience and will aid in muscle relaxation as well. It is crucial to speak up if more or less pressure is desired, table heat or face cradle needs adjustment, or any other changes need to be made. Being comfortable during your service is a top priority. 

New patients should arrive 10 minutes prior to their service to fill out paperwork if they have not done so online via their patient portal sent to their email. Returning clients should arrive 5 minutes prior to their session. 

Each individual has their own physiological needs and responses to treatments. Generally speaking, preparing to commit to one to two treatments per week until symptoms have subsided is typical for acupuncture and once per week for massage therapy. As progress is sustained, treatments can taper off and eventually be scheduled for basic maintenance, less frequently. Reassessments and evaluations may occur as often as each session so we can limit your commitment as soon as possible. Many wellness advocates find that receiving acupuncture weekly and massage bi-monthly is ideal for maintaining a holistic balance and preventing disease and injury.

Customized treatment plans will vary in frequency, modality, and pricing. Click Service Menu & Appointments to view a full list of treatment options and cost.

Cash, Credit card and FSA & HSA debits, are acceptable forms of payments.

For Long Beach: The Los Altos Medical center is on the corner of N Bellflower and E Atherton St in Long Beach. Make your way into the outdoor courtyard on the ground level until you find suite 107. Have a seat inside and a staff member will greet you and check you in. 

For Costa Mesa: The Waters at Creekside buildings are located next to The LAB Anti-Mall and can be entered from Bristol St or Randolph Ave. Find Building J slightly to the left from the Randolph Ave entrance near Memphis Cafe. Take the staircase to the right from the parking lot & make your way to the second floor, suite J205 with Purple Rose Esthetics. Start your relaxation in the waiting room and your provider will be with you soon.