Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Center, LLC

February 3, 2004

Dear Dr. Yang:
I’m writing to thank you for your superb care during my recent acupuncture treatment for my foot (post-surgery). This was my first exposure to acupuncture, and I was very pleased with the results following the recommended six weeks of treatment.

Unsatisfied with continued stiffness and pain at the base of my left big toe, six months after foot surgery, I hoped for some relief. After your first treatment, I felt more flexibility in my toe and more tingling and sensation throughout my foot. The pain level gradually decreased, and by week 5, the pain had decreased significantly.

The acupuncture process of inserting needles at specific spots around my foot was new to me. I didn’t need to be apprehensive, as I felt little when the needles were inserted beyond a prick, and Dr. Yang was always careful to gauge the degree of electrical stimulation that accompanies the treatment. Warm lights directed over the area increased the sensation of warmth and well being. I followed Dr. Yang’s instruction to continue to keep my foot warm between treatments.

Since I filled out a medical history noting several other problems, including frequent sinus headaches in the winter, hot flashes due to menopause, and lower back pain, Dr. Yang proceeded to help me with these as well.

I was amazed that following treatments for my headaches, I no longer needed Tylenol on a once to twice a week basis, as I did in the past. Dr. Yang used special pads on the nose that provide gentle electrical stimulation that seemed pleasant and soothing. Also, my hot flashes seemed to decrease in intensity and frequency following needle placements at key points on my abdomen, although this is harder to qualify than the lowering of pain.

Lastly, I was happy to have treatments for my chronic lower back pain. As with the other treatments, I felt a sensation of warmth and movement in that area that was pleasant and relaxing. I also noticed that even if a certain needle point is a little sensitive at first, within a minute or two it disappears and feels relaxed.

As reinforcement for these treatments, I attended Tai Chi classes, which, like acupuncture, rely on the concept of the movement of healthy energy throughout the body, and balancing “ying” and “yang” or the “chi” energy within the body. Surprisingly, this exercise also helped reduce pain and enhance strength, especially in the back and legs, as well as helping to reduce stress, as it also focuses on special points within the body from which energy naturally flows.

Through relaxation and focusing the mind on body healing, acupuncture can offer a patient a means to help his own body regain balance and health. I think that we are most fortunate in the Pittsburgh area to have someone of Dr. Yang’s ability and knowledge.
Sincerely,
Louise H.

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