What is Shakuju Therapy acupuncture?
Shakuju Therapy (SJT) is a style of acupuncture originating in Japan. It is the life work of Dr. Shoji Kobayashi. SJT treatment involves gentle non-insertion needle techniques to achieve deep healing. For a deeper dive on this, head over to my About Shakuju Acupuncture page.
Is Shakuju Therapy acupressure?
Though I typically don’t insert needles in Shakuju Therapy, it is indeed a form of acupuncture, and must be performed by a Licensed Acupuncturist. “Acupressure” is a massage technique. Shakuju Therapy is not massage.
By the way, I am really uncomfortable with the word “acupuncture”. I feel it is a clumsy and inaccurate translation. The traditional East Asian term is much broader, meaning something like “needle therapy”. Many different types of needles exist, each with its own specific method of use. What you probably think of as acupuncture from photos and television is actually only one way to practice.
How can treatment work if you don’t insert needles?
Our bodies operate on a very basic signal system. This system is not our blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, nerve conduction, or hormones. It is more fundamental than any of these systems, and influences them all. It is what the ancients identified as Qi. Acupuncture works by adjusting these signals, or Qi.
Our fascia conducts these signals throughout the body. Fascia is the network of connective tissue that wraps, permeates, and integrates all the muscles, organs, glands, and body structures. Skin contains fascia. You don’t need to insert a needle into the skin at all to achieve a therapeutic effect. You only need to make contact with it. This is how Shakuju Therapy works. By using a well-placed needle on the skin surface with intention, we can effect profound physiological change.
Dr. Kobayashi taught that the more shallow the needle, the more systemic its effect. Once a needle is inserted, its effect becomes more narrow and localized. It’s even possible to insert too far and miss the therapeutic sweet spot! Contact surface needling is the best way to gather your vitality and mobilize it to rebalance you body.
Do I have to believe in this stuff for it to work?
Acupuncture effectively treats little kids and pets (horses, dogs, cats, etc), and they certainly have no belief that this will help! I encourage you to bring your curiosity, doubt, and critical thinking skills into the treatment room. If however you have already decided that this won’t work for you, then you are probably better off not making the phone call. You are invited to be open to the process and see where it takes you.
Do I have to take off my clothes for this?
Not at all. Please be aware that your belly and back are important treatment areas, so loose-fitting comfortable clothing that can be rearranged is best. I respect your privacy and comfort level. You are always free to voice your concerns.
What can I expect during treatment?
Your first appointment is a longer visit. We start off with a thorough review of your health history and the symptoms you experience. I begin to get to know you as a person. Please download and fill out your paperwork completely; even minor details may be clinically significant.
Treatment itself is entirely one-on-one. You get my full, undivided attention for the duration of the session. It is a very palpatory (hands on) procedure. I feel for tight or painful areas before we start. I then re-check them periodically to gauge your body’s response. You become an active participant in your own healing process, because you feel the changes happening too. My patients often feel deeply relaxed, and yet energized after a treatment.
We conclude by planning out your course of treatment. We may also have a little discussion – some people are interested in learning ways they can support their healing process in daily life. Homework, anyone?
How do I prepare for my first treatment?
Please allow adequate travel time, so you arrive to your visit relaxed. Bring your completed Paperwork with you. Avoid drinking coffee before your treatment. Eat some protein an hour or so before your arrival, but not too much – neither an empty belly nor a full stomach is ideal for treatment. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows access to your belly, entire back, and/or areas of complaint.
What do I do after a treatment?
The effects of your treatment are still setting in after you leave the clinic. To get the most out of your treatment and facilitate this process, please:
- Keep hydrated with warm or room-temperature fluids. Refrain from cold drinks and alcohol. Do not eat too much.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, sexual activity, swimming or bathing (showers are OK) until the following day.
- Plan on going to bed reasonably early so your body can rest and absorb the treatment.
Shakuju Therapy resets your body, and you may experience some aggravation of symptoms after your first treatment. This is rare, but possible. Known as a “healing crisis”, it means your vital force is now mobilized. After having been stuck for so long, the gears of health receive some fresh oil and begin turning again. It settles down within 24 hours. If concerned, you may call or report at your next visit.
How many treatments will I need?
This is different for everybody, and depends on many factors. Generally speaking, the longer a condition has existed, the more treatment is required to address it. Treatment has a cumulative effect, and this takes time to build up.
Imagine your body as a house after it’s caught fire. The more damage that has been done, the longer it will take to rebuild the house.
How often will I need treatment?
This also varies from person to person depending on your individual circumstances. For most cases, I recommend once a week. This gives your body time to absorb the treatment and reset itself. Some situations, like acute conditions or physical trauma, may require more frequent treatment.
Notice how you feel after a treatment. Did any changes happen? How long did they last? We will discuss this at your next visit, and determine the best frequency of treatment for you.
Will insurance cover the cost of treatment?
Today many insurance companies cover acupuncture costs, though coverage will vary depending on your specific plan and diagnosis.
I am an out-of-network provider. If your plan covers acupuncture services, I will be happy to provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Due to current circumstances, accepting insurance prevents me from providing the high level of one-on-one treatment that is most effective in helping you achieve your health goals. I do not bill insurance directly, and I do not assist with claim resolution.
You can use your FSA and HSA cards for acupuncture.
MEDICARE WILL NOT COVER YOUR ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT AT THIS FACILITY