Services

Electro-acupuncture treats severe pain of muscular and neurological origin by working to interface the nervous system with the muscular system. Electro-acupuncture has analgesic and mood-lifting effects by releasing neurotransmitters such as endogenous opioids, enkephalins, endocannabinoids, serotonin and dynorphins. It increases cell metabolism, lymphatic drainage, neuromuscular re-education and rehabilitation. 

Dry needling is a therapy that effectively treats myofascial pain syndrome, which affects about 44 million Americans, and accounts for 85-95% of the cases in a pain clinic. Dry needling works to deactivate tight, ropey, tender points in muscle tissue called trigger points, the major cause of myofascial pain. This deactivation of trigger points not only reduces pain, but has been shown to improve mood, increase function and range of motion, and decrease the level of disability.

Prolo-acupuncture, short for proliferation acupuncture, is used to stabilize hyper-mobile joints from acute trauma or repetitive strains. Prolo-acupuncture can trigger immediate reflexive ligament tightening, promote blood flow and tissue repair, and break up scarring and adhesions. After 1-3 treatments, progressive strengthening of ligamentous tissues will continue over 6 months to restore joint stability.  

Cupping and Gua Sha are ancient folk remedies used to reduce adhesions and trigger points, often combined with acupuncture to treat chronic pain. They can provoke the body to release its own pain inhibiting and stress reducing neurotransmitters and neurohormones. Cupping and Guasha can increase local vascular flow and lymphatic drainage. Cupping and Guasha also promote muscle tendon flexibility, length and strength. I often teach patients how to perform gua sha on their own. 

Chinese herbal medicine is a system that relies on combining single herbs in a harmonious and synergistic way to create herbal formulas. We focuses on treating the underlying causes of diseases. The strength of it is evidenced by the fact that formulas in use thousands of years ago are still relevant and effective today. 

Martha is offering a free weekly Taiji and Qigong class. It's Saturday 8:30-9:30 AM in Goleta. This is an introductory class that focuses on spinal mobilization. Creation of this class derives from Martha’s clinical experiences helping people who suffer from chronic pain. Martha’s hope is to empower people and to equip them with tools for self-healing instead of needing to rely solely on the conventional medical system. Contact us for location. People of all ages and abilities are welcome!