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Elkayam Center For Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine
1152 Solano Ave
Albany, CA 94706
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Welcome to the Elkayam Center
Do you remember how you felt at age 20?
Do you think it's "normal" to feel the way you do now? Do you feel your age, or perhaps a little older? Have you seen someone your age who is in vibrant health? Have you wondered how you can get there, too?
Western medicine has its place
However, pharmaceutical drugs are oftentimes used as "shortcuts" to alleviate symptoms without resolving the fundamental issues. Physicians cannot spend as much time with patients as they would like to, and average physician-patient contact time has decreased in the last 50 years
Now is the time for a holistic medicine that takes into account all of you
My practice helps patients heal at a deep level and thereby bring them back to a state of balanced health which they once possessed. If you are here, it means you are ready to begin your journey back to health. Welcome!
About
Ron Elkayam
MSTCM graduated from the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences in Oakland, California in 2004 where he studied acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Before that, he studied psychology at Haverford College, where he received a B.A. degree
While still in school studying Chinese Medicine
Ron studied with Robert Levine, L.Ac., in Berkeley, where he furthered his understanding of acupuncture, herbal formulas, diagnosis, and pulsetaking. Inspired to take his learning to a new level, he moved to Taiwan in 2005 to learn Mandarin as a way of deepening his studies in Chinese medicine
Over the course of almost five years
Ron studied Mandarin in universities in Taipei, Shanghai, and Beijing, received advanced Mandarin language certification, and worked in hospitals, where he was able to communicate with doctors and patients in their native language and gain useful clinical experience
While living in Beijing
Ron interned at Guanganmen Hospital, the largest and most well-known hospital of Chinese Medicine in China, where he interned in acupuncture, pediatrics, dermatology, and psychosomatic medicine
Ron also interned at Tongren Hospital's Institute of Traditional Medicine in Beijing
where he studied acupuncture with Dr. Hong Wang, a disciple of Dr. Ju Yi Wang. In addition, he also saw patients at Dongzhimen Acupuncture Hospital, one of the only hospitals in the world which uses acupuncture as the primary modality to treat patients
Ron has also studied
with private doctors such as Dr. Shengyu Li in Taipei and Dr. Zhenyu Chen in Beijing and served as an English instructor at the Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Ron has a background in mind-body disciplines and has a 2nd kyu (brown belt) in aikido
He has also studied qigong (Wild Goose style), taiji (Wu, Chen, and Yang styles), and Kripalu yoga. He also believes in the importance of diet and exercise in helping patients reach optimum health and happiness
In late 2010
Ron finally returned to the U.S. to bring his clinical experience to American patients. Since then, he has deepened his clinical experience, treating hundreds of patients in over 5000 patient visits and currently teaches clinical acupuncture to students at the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences Clinic in Oakland
He has NCCAOM certification in acupuncture and herbal medicine
Ron is originally from Baltimore, MD
Conditions
I first got a taste of the scope of Chinese medicine when I started interning in my school's clinic in California
Every time we saw a patient, my teacher, Dr. Zhou, would tell me how she had seen this condition many times before. In China, Chinese medicine can be used for most conditions. For centuries, doctors have written about everything from gynecological to psychological to orthopedic conditions
Finally, I went to China and worked in hospitals
where are saw most every condition being treated. Returning to the U.S., people ask me, "What's your specialty?" I always say I have a general practice of preventative medicine. Western physicians these days like to specialize and what we need more of is good general practitioners. I have seen everything from high blood pressure to fibromyalgia, from depression and insomnia to acne. That's how powerful this medicine is
Here is a list of some of the conditions that I treat
Pain
Lower back pain, Shoulder and neck pain, Elbow, knee, and foot pain, Sciatica, Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Bursitis, TMJ, Sports injuries
Digestive
Leaky Gut Syndrome, Crohn's Disease, IBS, Diarrhea, Constipation, Acid reflux (GERD), Colitis, Nausea, Abdominal Pain
Respiratory
Sinusitis, Cough, Colds and Flu, Immune strengthening
Neurological
Headaches, migraines, Bell's Palsy, Peripheral neuropathy, Dizziness
Emotional
Insomnia, Depression, Anxiety, panic attacks, Stress
Skin
Acne Psoriasis, Eczema, Alopecia (spot baldness), Roseacea
Cardiovascular
Poor circulation, High blood pressure
Women's Issues
Infertility, Menopause, Irregular menstruation, PMS, Endometriosis
Pregnancy
Morning sickness, Breech presentation
Men's Issues
Prostate problems, Erectile dysfunction
Other
Low energy, fatigue, Smoking cessation, Weight loss, Sjögren's syndrome, Edema
Acupuncture FAQ
In China (and in certain populations in the West), most patients we see in the hospital don't need to learn about acupuncture any more than we need to learn what a stethoscope or a blood pressure cuff is. They have been coming in for years and trust that the needles will help them get better. For those of you who have never gotten acupuncture before, here are answers to some of your frequently asked questions to help you feel at ease
To be honest, I am afraid of needles
The needles that we use are not like the pins in your new dress shirts and they are not like those big fat ones they use to draw your blood. The needles we use are all about as thin as a human hair. Most patients not only say that they don't hurt, but they feel relaxing
How can I be sure the needles are clean?
All needles used are single-use disposable stainless steel needles
How does acupuncture work? I mean, how can you help me get better by putting needles into different points in my body?
From the perspective of Chinese medicine, just as your body has a respiratory or a digestive system, it also has an energetic system. Over the centuries, Chinese doctors and practitioners of the art of qi gong (pronounced "chee gawng") have mapped out the pathways of this energy. If your body is a city, these channels are the streets which connect the acupuncture points, which are locations in the city. Over time, practitioners gained enough experience to predict how putting a needle in one point, or several needles in a group of points, would affect the body. For example, the point between the webbing in your hand between your thumb and forefinger (called LI-4, or in Chinese Hegu, which means Union Valley) connects to your face. When I was just out of acupuncture school, my friend's neighbor Sue had a bad case of trigeminal neuralgia and they called me over to come help. I then put a needle in Sue's hand and the pain stopped
How do you explain acupuncture from the perspective of Western medical science?
There is now a dedicated group of researchers across the world, in Europe, the U.S., and in China and other Asian countries who scientifically studying the mechanisms and effects of acupuncture, using solid research methods and high-tech hardware. For example, through advanced imaging techniques, they are analyzing the impact of acupuncture on the brain. Biochemically, they are measuring the release of different substances in the body when acupuncture is administered. Complex theories involve the release of neurotransmitter endorphins, prostoglandins, gamma globulins, and other cool-sounding substances. Do we need to understand all of this to begin exploring the world of Chinese medicine? Not any more than you need to understand the chemistry of cheesecake before eating it! For those of you who would like to more, click "Research Articles" under the acupuncture tab
How long do you leave the needles in?
Typically, needles are left in the body for 20 minutes
Is acupuncture dangerous?
If done by a trained professional, acupuncture is not only not dangerous, but extremely beneficial. Licensed acupuncturists usually have at least 3000 hours of training. In certain states, other medical professional are permitted to practice acupuncture with 100-200 hours of training. When getting acupuncture, be sure to ask your practitioner about her background and training
How many sessions will I need?
In the course of six treatments, we see how you respond to acupuncture. After you have completed this first course of treatment, I evaluate your response and will give you a treatment plan. My goal is to get you 80% better
Do you recommend that I get acupuncture once a week for the long-term?
No. I want to get you better and out on your way so I can help other people. My treatment plan will aim to correct your condition, not just provide symptomatic relief. Once you have reached a state of balance, you can come back periodically for preventative treatments, but this will not be weekly. Many long-term patients who come in monthly or quarterly maintain excellent health and attribute it to their periodic acupuncture treatments
Pediatrics: Chinese Medicine for Kids
Children (infants to teens) respond well to Chinese medicine
usually more quickly than adults, due to their yang, or robust, nature. They are, after all, growing
From a Chinese Medicine perspective
children have weak digestive systems (Spleen system in Chinese Medical theory) and overactive nervous systems (Liver system). Parents, I can see you nodding your head in agreement right now
In Chinese Medicine
the child is treated holistically. This means that treatment aims to resolve the root of the issue as well as the symptoms, rather than just focusing on the "branch" (symptoms). For example, rather than focusing on just the symptoms of a cold, like cough or nasal congestion, we would focus on boosting the immune system and strengthening digestion so colds don't reoccur
Of course
Chinese Medicine can provide immediate non-drug relief for all the symptoms your child is experiencing
I focus on results as well as ensuring that your child is comfortable during treatment, using the following modalities
Acupuncture
Based on my diagnosis of your child, I place extra-thin acupuncture needles in 4-10 acupuncture points located mostly on the limbs. The needles, for almost all children, are painless. They are usually left in the body for five minutes. The first treatment is always the most difficult, as some children can be nervous about needles. However, after the first treatment, children are completely relaxed as they know there is no pain involved. Actually, I find most children to be more brave than adults!
Japanese Non-Invasive Pediatric Acupuncture (Shonishin)
This type of acupuncture, which does not involve the insertion of needles into the skin, has been practiced and refined for centuries in Japan. I use it for children who feel jittery when the word needle is mentioned. Shonishin focuses on treatment techniques that children find comfortable and even pleasurable. Dramatic results can be obtained even with very light treatment. The techniques involve rhythmic stroking, rubbing, tapping, and pressing the skin to stimulate the acupuncture points and channels. These techniques harmonize and build your child's energy, and strengthen the child's constitution. Treatments for children are brief. A typical treatment usually lasts ten minutes. Rapport and connection with your child is of utmost importance
Herbal Tinctures
Chinese herbal medicine has been used for centuries (at least two millenia, actually), to treat children. Since herbal teas taste "yucky" (to most children and most adults, by the way), I give children herbal tinctures that they actually like. All tinctures are made by U.S.-based companies and certified to be safefree of heavy metals, pesticides, and any bio-contaminants. Kids get used to their dropperful of herbs in the morning and evening, and parents love the results
The above modalities can be helpful in cases of the following pediatric conditions
Failure to thrive syndrome
Weak constitution
Colic, excessive night crying, temper tantrums
Indigestion, GERD, constipation, and diarrhea
Night terrors
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Allergies, asthma, and colds
Eczema and hives
Ear infections
Bedwetting
Stuttering
How to Choose an Acupuncturist
When selecting an acupuncturist, ask the following questions
How many hours of clinical training in acupuncture and Chinese medicine have you received?
Licensed acupuncturists usually have approximately 3000 hours of academic training plus an internship of about 1000 hours. Medical professionals who are exempt from this requirement (such as M.D.'s or chiropractors) may only need 100-200 hours of training. Beyond this, they may have additional training. Be sure to ask
Do you have NCCAOM certification?
In most States, acupuncturists are required to take several exams and fulfill the certification requirements of the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. In sum, is it possible to learn to fly a plane in one semester? Probably. Would you want to fly with a pilot who only has one semester of training? Your health is in your hands. You be the judge
Herbs FAQ
I heard that some Chinese herbs are toxic. Is this true?
You can be assured that all the herbs we carry are of the highest quality available. All herbs must pass several strict tests of quality before they arrive here. First, all herbs are selected from the most reputable suppliers in China and shipped to processing facilities (most are located in Taiwan), where they are tested by botanists to ensure their authenticity, using a standardized protocol (including comparing the herb's chemical "fingerprint" to the fingerprint of the correct herb). Once herbs have been properly identified, they are thoroughly washed to remove foreign materials and put in a large vat where they are cooked in water at a specific time and temperature. The liquid decoction is then concentrated by evaporation and made into granules, which can be pressed into tablets. Each batch then undergoes several laboratory tests for the following: bacteria (E. coli, salmonella, molds, yeast), pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and heavy metals
Are there side effects?
Chinese doctors have used several thousand individual herbs and developed hundreds of herbal formulas that have been time tested for safety and efficacy over at least 2500 years on millions (if not billions) of people. Each herbal formula is a balanced blend of individual herbs that work in harmony with each other and with the body and have been found over many centuries to greatly benefit a certain condition or complaint. Very simply, what worked is still in use today, and what didn't was discarded long ago. Side effects from Chinese herbal medicines are uncommon, particularly when they are prescribed by a professionally trained Chinese herbal medicine practitioner
When do I take the herbs?
Chinese herbs are best taken on an empty stomach, which means at least thirty minutes before meals or two hours after. Usually, herbs are taken three times a day (for example, after getting up, at 7 a.m., an hour before lunch at 11 a.m., and in the mid-afternoon at 3 p.m.). If you are taking herbs to help you sleep in addition to herbs which you take during the day, make sure you take the last dose of your daytime herbs before 6 p.m. Your sleep herbs should be taken thirty minutes before bed
I don't like taking the pills because they are too big
This is easily solved by using a pill splitter. Or, ask for granules
How do I take the granules?
Mix the prescribed amount (usually 3 small spoons) with a quarter cup of warm water and drink. If you don't like the taste, you may add some white grape juice or eat a few raisins after swallowing
I don't have time in the middle of the day to take the herbs
Please do your best to take all doses of the herbs each day. Many patients put the herbs (tablets or granules) in a Ziploc plastic bag and take them to work. If you think that you may not be able to take your midday dose, ask me if you can split that day's dose into two, instead of three doses
I feel nauseous after taking the herbs
If you feel nauseous after taking the herbs, please talk to me so that I can adjust the dosage or the formula you are taking
It's hard to take the herbs
Taking the time to take the herbs can sometimes feel like a hassle. Ask yourself how committed you are to getting better. On a scale of 1 to 10, are you a 10? If not, why not? Of course, always stay in communication with me. We are a team and you need to work together and communicate so that you can get healthy
Insurance
Elkayam Center for Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine is now part of the Blue Shield of California Preferred Provider Network
Some insurance plans do cover acupuncture
Every plan is different, so call your insurance carrier and ask them if your plan has acupuncture benefits
We can also check your coverage for you and take care of billing your insurance company if you have coverage
Acupuncture is usually covered by Flexible Health Savings plans
Teachers
Acupuncture is great for stress relief and increasing energy
In recognition of your service to our community, I offer a 20% discount to teachers on my services
Get Your Labs Done
While I take a classical approach to Chinese medicine
focusing on taking the pulse and tongue, feeling the acupuncture channels with my hands, and listening to each patient, I also take advantage of modern laboratory tests to refine my Chinese diagnosis and help my patients reach optimal health. In some cases, the results help me refer patients to the appropriate specialist
Basic Labs
Once a year, at least, it is important to assess the state of your red and white blood cells, lipids and cholesterol, kidney and liver function, electrolytes, and other important measures such as C-reactive protein (CRP; a measure of inflammation) and homocysteine (a measure of cardiovascular health). For patients who are dealing with abdominal pain, bloating, or gas, mental fog, skin issues, fatigue, aches and pains, etc., the following tests can also be helpful
Food intolerance testing
This testing helps determine the offending food or other irritants (such as preservatives, food colorings, pollens, plastics, etc). I use a variety of methodologies, including IgG and LRA (lymphocyte response assay) by ELISA/ACT
Gastrointestinal Assessment
This test looks for "bad" bacteria, fungal, and parasitic infections, and is especially helpful in cases when patients complain of mental fog, skin issues, ongoing fatigue, depression, and inability to lose weight. If you are interested in getting your labs done at Elkayam Center, please give us a call to schedule a consult and begin your journey of healing. We have helped many patients by using our integrative approach, blending the best of East and West
Acupuncture "Scholarship"
The Elkayam Center
for Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine is pleased to announce that an anonymous donor from the community who believes in the power of acupuncture has decided to offer acupuncture "scholarships" to several people in the community
Those awarded this scholarship will receive six sessions of regular acupuncture
Acupuncture sessions are private and at least 45 minutes each. The process includes an initial consultation and exam, prescription of herbal supplements if necessary, and dietary and lifestyle counseling. Sessions, which are normally $75 each, are highly subsidized so that receipients pay only $25 for each session. All herbs prescribed are offered at a 20% discount
In cases of longstanding
difficult conditions, the scholarship can be renewed, so that the patient can receive maximum benefit
If you or someone you know is in need of acupuncture sessions and also dealing with financial challenges
please contact us by email: ronelkayam@gmail.com
In your email
you should include your name, why you would benefit from low-cost acupuncture treatment, and a summary of your current financial situation
Testimonials
Fibromyalgia/TMJ
"Ron has been treating me for fibromyalgia and severe TMJ. The pain in my face and jaw can often be disabling. My level of pain is significantly reduced after being treatments. Ron is not only compassionate but very good at what he does. I've been to other acupuncturists who did not have the expertise that Ron has. He knows where to put the needles, finds the source of pain and treats it quickly and effectively. I have recommended Ron to friends and will continue to do so." - GL, McLean VA
Acid Reflux
Ron treated me for acid reflux, which included severe burning and pain after meals. My restricted diet and other stress led to depression/anxiety as well. After over a year of being treated by a Western doctor, I was on heavy medication and had no hope of stopping, which worried me. The medication didn't fully relieve my symptoms. After a few weeks of acupuncture and herbs, my symptoms, both the acid reflux and my anxiety, decreased significantly. I have a much more positive attitude. Ron is very kind, concerned, and thorough. He suggests various treatments and there is no pressure at all. He is always accessible by phone or email, which is wonderful. I have recommended Ron enthusiastically to friends and relatives and will continue to do so! - MF, McLean VA
Digestive Issues/Anxiety
"Ron is the real deal, a true healer. Over the years, I have seen a variety of acupuncturists and alternative health practitioners, but Ron is by far the best. Not only is he highly skilled in the art of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine, he is also easy to talk to and allows you to be an active participant in your own healing. I originally came to Ron with severe digestive issues that were having a very negative impact on my life. After working with Ron, my digestive system is dramatically better; I am just thrilled with the results! Ron has also had success in helping me with my anxiety and my plantar fasciitis. Ron really cares about his patients, is flexible in his approach, and has many words of wisdom to share. I would highly recommend him to anyone." - SM, Vienna VA
Acid Reflux
"I have had acid reflux for 4 years and would get painful attacks every few months. After treatment by Ron, I am off Nexium and haven't had any symptoms in several months. It is unbelievable! Ron is pleasant and informative and he also cured my plantar fasciitis, my neck and back pain, and hand pain. I would recommend Ron to friends and family." - BC, Woodbridge VA
Neck Pain
"I had constant neck pain and was unable to move my head back and forth which made it difficult to perform my daily activities such as driving. After being treated by Ron, my neck feels great! This must be how everyone else feels. I had become accustomed to the pain. Getting treated by Ron was a great experience. It's amazing that it works! Ron makes you feel comfortable. I would recommend Ron to my friends and relatives." - JD, Gaithersburg MD
Acid Reflux (GERD)
"I've had terrible acid reflux disease for over 30 years. It would wake me at least 2-4 nights per month and sometimes leave me sick to my stomach. I have not had a single acid reflux attack in over 4 months since starting acupuncture. I had never gone that long without major symptoms. The acupuncture is not what I expected. It's very peaceful and not painful. And the results, to me, are amazing. I am completely off all antacids, prescription or OTC, I have no pain, and most surprisingly and unexpectedly, I sleep like a baby! I would unreservedly recommend Ron to my friends and relatives." - LF, Falls Church VA
Anxiety/Insomnia
"Ron treated me for anxiety and sleep issues. I would wake up 2-3 times each night and was having anxious dreams. I often felt irritable and this was affecting my relationships.After two weeks of taking herbs, my mood was much better. I also was sleeping better and waking up only once at night, after which I would go right back to sleep. I also had more energy!" - AK, McLean VA
Anxiety/Insomnia
"Ron treated me for anxiety and sleep issues. I would wake up 2-3 times each night and was having anxious dreams. I often felt irritable and this was affecting my relationships.After two weeks of taking herbs, my mood was much better. I also was sleeping better and waking up only once at night, after which I would go right back to sleep. I also had more energy!" - AK, McLean VA
Back Pain
"I've had acupuncture from three different doctors, and yours is the first treatment where I experienced concrete, noticeable results." - AM, Reston VA
Back Pain
"I was experiencing lower back pain for a few days, not being able to get out of bed easily. After my first acupuncture treatment by Ron, I was able to touch my toes and felt no pain. The difference was drastic. Ron is professional and knowledgeable and I like that he interned in China. I would definitely recommend him to my friends, family, and clients! MI, McLean VA Back Spasms "I unexpectedly woke up with a sudden experience of intense, immobilizing, and painful spasms in my upper back. It was very debilitating and prevented almost all upper body motion, especially when driving, cooking, lifting, etc. I could not sleep and was unable to help care for my husband who was recovering from knee surgery. The condition did not respond to muscle relaxants, codeine, or therapeutic massage. After my first treatment by Ron, I felt significant improvement that evening, with much less pain and slightly more mobility. After the second treatment, I was able to turn my head and drive, move freely, sleep comfortably, and had almost no pain. The condition has not returned. As I said to friends, Ron fixed me! Ron is professional, knowledgeable, and prompt. No long office waits. His manner is friendly and very positive. The treatment itself is very relaxing. I would absolutely recommend Ron to my friends and relatives. I have also returned for treatment of my respiratory condition." - SRS, McLean VA
Lower Back Pain
"I had severe lower back pain which was radiating down both my legs and limited my mobility. After only 3 sessions, I am basically completely pain free. I have my full mobility back and am crying tears of joy because nothing helped me before this. Words are not enough to express my gratitude. The treatments were pain-free and relaxing. Results were immediate and I am back up and running around like before. I would absolutely recommend Ron to my friends and family." - FM, Vienna VA
Athletic Performance
"After being treated by Ron, I experienced an extreme increase in energy levels, increased endurance, and lowered my personal record in the half-marathon by 15 minutes! Ron is very professional, informative, well-informed, and personable. I have to admit that I was a huge skeptic, but am now fully converted to believing and trusting in Eastern Medicine and treatment. I would absolutely recommend Ron to my friends and relatives. My mother and wife are both patients." - FA, Vienna VA
Diabetic Neuropathy
"As a diabetic patient in the care of a physician who specializes in diabetes over the past 20 years, I decided to take a leap of faith and try acupuncture to try to relieve the tingling sensation in my toes. This has been bothering me for the past 3 years. Having seen a neurologist and a podiatrist has not helped much. I cannot believe that after two of your acupuncture treatments, the tingling sensation in my toes is completely gone. It's as if I never had it before. Amazing. Thank you, thank you, thank you!" - Jack F., Baltimore MD
Recurrent Miscarriages
"Ron is fantastic. I have recommended him to my friends and sent my husband and parents to him as well. Originally, I went to Ron for stress relief. What I liked about Ron is that he takes a wholistic approach to health. Together, we discussed my diet, exercise routine, sources of stress, etc. and then did acupuncture with associated supplements (vitamins/herbs). The acupuncture helped within a few days and I felt stronger and more calm. My husband noticed the difference and also decided to get a few acupuncture sessions himself. Before acupuncture with Ron, my husband and I had several unsuccessful attempts at having a baby. At that point, I took an aggressive acupuncture approach with Ron to get my body ready for pregnancy. Within a few months of acupuncture with Ron, we were pregnant and I had a great pregnancy. Throughout my pregnancy, I felt calm and strong and my weight gain was nonexistent. We had a healthy baby boy and my body did great during the labor and recovered quickly. Thanks Ron for helping us bring our little one into the world!" - GR, McLean, VA
General Body Pain
"Ron is very professional and provided very personal care. As a lifetime patient of acupuncture, I rely on the caring and thoughtfulness of the doctor to understand my problems with chronic pain and how to treat them. Dr. Ron did all of this and above all showed utmost respect. Thank you for your kindness and for taking such good care of me during treatments that have helped reduce my pain and helped me to feel better in order to deal with the pain. Keep up the good work. Thanks again." - Lucy T., Providence RI
Edema
"I would like to thank to Ron for his excellent and professional care as my acupuncturist. He is knowledgeable, caring, and his treatments with both acupuncture and Chinese herbal supplements helped with my edema." - Mary D., St. Louis MO
Shoulder/Leg Pain & Muscle Weakness
"I had developed debilitating leg and shoulder pain from several years of overexertion without proper preparation. I have been treated by Ron with acupuncture and Chinese herbs and I have noticed a steady reduction of pain and strengthening of muscles and stamina. Ron is a very patient, caring, and knowledgeable person in this field. I mention him to my friends and relatives every chance I get." - Jan M., McLean VA
Shoulder Pain
"I had bad shoulder pain and could not go swing dancing, which is my passion. I went to a chiropractor and got some minor relief. After five acupuncture treatments with Ron, I was back on the dance floor. Thanks, Ron." - AP, Baltimore MD
Heel Pain/Insomnia
"I was experiencing heel pain due to plantar fasciitis and trouble sleeping. The heel pain was becoming worse with frequent limping. My sleep had been uneven for years. The most immediate result of being treated by Ron was being able to sleep through the night. It had been uncommon to have a good night's sleep, but now it is just the opposite. The heel pain has been reduced to a minimal inconvenience. Ron is very professional and explains well the process and possible results over time. I have recommend Ron to my friends and relatives." - HB, Falls Church VA
Pediatric Allergies w/Coughing and Nasal Congestion; Teeth-Grinding (Bruxism)
"My five year-old girl has been coming to Ron for acupuncture for coughing and nasal congestion related to allergies. He is awesome and fantastic with kids! Ron also gave my daughter herbal medicine in liquid form. Her mucus has gone completely back to clear and it is definitely much less copious. She does have to blow her nose a few times a day, but it is nothing like before. She coughs here and there, but much less as well. She is not coughing at night anymore. I've slept in her room with her a few nights, and it seems that the teeth grinding has gone way down as well. So, things are fabulous. Thanks for the wonderful treatment." - CH, McLean VA
Sciatic Pain/Headache During Pregnancy
"I was treated by Ron for sciatic pain and headaches during pregnancy. Almost immediately after the acupuncture session to treat my sciatica, I had relief. I almost couldn't believe it. That night the pain was 90% relieved and for the first time in days I was able to sleep comfortably and the relief lasted several days. I had some back pain a few days later, however after the second treatment my back pain was relieved again and did not return. Ron has been treating me for several months now and I actually look forward to my acupuncture sessions, a surprise for someone who is afraid of needles. I always leave feeling relaxed and my headaches subside, at least for several days, and I have more energy and a better appetite. I have recommended his services to friends already." - AR, Woodbridge VA
Back/Shoulder Pain
"I had muscle spasms in my upper back and chronic shoulder pain. There was occasional hip pain that I didn't mention. After being treated by Ron, I am sleeping very well and wake up rested and ready to go. I have freedom of movement in my back and shoulder without pain. Even the hip pain has subsided. Being treated by Ron is a painless pleasure and I would ABSOLUTELY recommend him to friends." - VC, Falls Church VA
Edema
I was completely debilitated by a sudden flare of lymphedema in both legs.This is a condition where the lymph system fails to pump the fluids back up through the body to the appropriate organs for excretion. I had recently been discharged from Intensive Care for infectious colitis and could hardly walk from one room to another. I began seeing results immediately. Two months of regular acupuncture and herbal therapy has me on my feet and active again. During this time, I lost 30 lbs. of weight (in water). Ron is extremely well trained and knowledgeable in his specialty. He thoroughly explains what is happening and what the patient should expect. I found his listening skills to be stellar which validated me and my concerns at a level I've rarely experienced from a medical professional. His empathy and compassion gave me comfort and confidence in the healing process. I have many co -existing medical conditions that Western medicine and pharmaceuticals successfully manage. Ron researched and made sure that none of the Chinese herbs he recommended would be conflicting or counter-indicated with my prescription regime. I am on the path approaching total body and mind wellness after working with Ron for just two short months - KR, Leesburg VA
Abdominal Pain/Fatigue
Ron treated me for stomach problems and general fatigue that I had developed while traveling in South America over the course of a year. The stomach problems impaired my digestion and the fatigue was a limiting factor in almost all areas of life. Now, several months after I have returned home and incorporated Ron's practice into my weekly routine, I feel much healthier and energetic. I have more energy to tackle work and fun. I was usually notably tired immediately after my acupuncture sessions, and I believe that this effect was a result of my body's processing and dissolving of deep-seated weariness. Moreover, my digestion has improved, and I credit this blessing to Ron's acupuncture and herbal treatment. It has been a pleasure to see Ron for every appointment. He is relaxed, kind, and knowledgeable, and he is passionate about Chinese medicine. Thanks again Ron! I would recommend Ron to others, without doubt. In fact, all five of my family members have had treatment from Ron! - JM, McLean VA