At the Natural Paths Acupuncture clinic we treat many conditions in Vancouver, WA and the surrounding area. Acupuncture treatment is done in a supportive and comfortable environment. With over 36 years of combined experience in western and eastern medicine, there’s not much we haven’t seen. Our treatments may also include nutritional and lifestyle recommendations to help you with your healthcare goals.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting skinny needles through the skin at specific points on the body to different depths. This practice stimulates specific areas called acupuncture points or acupoints, corresponding to different internal organs, systems, or structures. This stimulation helps regulate the body's flow of energy, called "Qi" (pronounced "chee"), to promote healing and alleviate pain and other symptoms.
From the Western medicine perspective, acupuncture affects many physiological systems, like the nervous system, immune system, and circulatory system. It triggers the release of neurotransmitters, endorphins, and other substances. This may help reduce pain, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being.
I have been a Registered Nurse for over 30 years with medical experience in critical care, hospice, home health and community nursing. I became interested in acupuncture while having my own health challenges that western medicine seemed unable to heal and, at times, made worse.
When I experienced what acupuncture did for me, I had to learn how it worked. What I found in acupuncture was a Natural Path back to health and am deeply in awe and appreciation of this medicine. I have successfully treated various physical, emotional and chronic medical issues.
+ Bachelors of Science, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
+ Registered Nurse, 25 years
+ Masters, Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine, Boone, NC
+ Certified with NCCAOM (National Certification Commission For Acupuncture And Oriental Medicine), Washington State
+ Doctorate of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, Five Branches University
This is a technique where during an acupuncture session, certain points may be
stimulated by mild electrical current to bring relief from symptoms such as
pain. It provides sensory input into the acupoints and channels.
This is a method of treating disease with a vacuum created in a plastic or glass
jar and applied to skin. It draws up the underlying tissues and brings more blood
flow to an area.
A traditional Chinese method where a smooth edged tool is stroked up or down
channels on the skin. It helps to bring improved blood flow and movement within
the tissues and channels. This method is very effective for Chronic pain.
A form of Chinese medical massage. It brings both warmth and movement to the
tissues of the body. It helps clear blockages and opens up the channels.
Testimonials
Most people find acupuncture a relaxing and pleasurable experience. The needles used in acupuncture are not the same as needles in a doctor's office. Acupuncture needles are about the width of a human hair. They are prepackaged, sterile and disposable.
Acupuncture has been around for well over 2500 years. It works the body's energy or Qi. Just as rivers ebb and flow across the earth, so to does the human body, as it has channels that energy ebbs and flows through. Acupuncture works on various points along these channels in order to bring about healing.
Some sensations you may experience during acupuncture at insertion site may be a dull ache, movement above or below the needled point. You may also have itching at the site. These are not uncommon during treatment and indicate that the Qi is being activated.
Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:
Chronic pain (e.g., back pain, migraines, arthritis)
Digestive issues (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux)
Emotional disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety)
Women's health concerns (e.g., menstrual cramps, menopausal symptoms)
Respiratory conditions (e.g., allergies, asthma)
Neurological disorders (e.g., stroke rehabilitation, Parkinson's disease)
Addiction recovery support (e.g., smoking cessation, substance abuse)
Contact
Monday
9:00am – 4:30pm
Tuesday
9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday
9:00am – 4:30pm
Thursday
9:00am – 5:00pm
Fri-Sun
CLOSED
Phone Number:
(360) 401-8080
"Discover personalized acupuncture and holistic care for optimal health and healing."
- Dr Barbara Dennis L.Ac., BSN, RN