If you are looking for an acupuncturist in Portland, Oregon, this blogpost is just what you need. As an acupuncturist seeing patients in Portland for the past 7 years, I know how difficult it can be to find the right acupuncturist for you. If you have a friend or family member who sees an acupuncturist they love, that can be a good starting point. Here are some other tips that will help you decide which Portland acupuncturist is right for you:
1. Make sure that your acupuncturist has experience treating the condition you have. This is especially important if you are being seen for a complex chronic illness or injury, or if you are seeking help with fertility or during pregnancy. For instance, if you are in need of an acupuncturist who can help with your migraines, thyroid condition, and fertility issues, it will help to see someone who has a track record for treating these conditions. This means that before you even walk in the door your acupuncturist will likely have a plan for treatment. Still, it is important for you and your provider to remember that you are an individual, so make sure you…
2. Find an acupuncturist who is not afraid to change tactics or refer out when necessary. Just because your acupuncturist has treated migraines 100 times before doesn’t mean that your migraines will respond the same as anyone else’s. You need to know that your practitioner is willing to build a partnership with you and will do what it takes (including referring you to a chiropractor, MD, physical therapist, LMT or other) if you are not getting the results you want.
3. Choose an acupuncturist with an active social media presence. A provider who actively blogs and posts on social media sites is interested in sharing a treasure trove of important information with you, and is also likely to keep up on current research and techniques within the medical field.
4. Be certain that your acupuncturist is licensed by both the Oregon Board of Medical Examiners, and by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). To become an LAc (licensed acupuncturist), one has to complete a comprehensive 4-year post-graduate Master’s degree program, and then pass national board exams. There is a big difference between the amount of education involved in getting a Master’s level degree in acupuncture at an accredited school and in taking a weekend course in acupuncture, and the outcomes in treatment will likely show it.
Busy practice, new practice, specialist or generalist, make sure that you feel comfortable with the practitioner you choose. You should be able to speak with your potential new acupuncturist (for free) via phone or in person before setting an appointment so that you can decide whether or not they are going to meet your criteria. You need to be able to feel comfortable sharing details of your health with them, and to know that you will be listened to and your health taken seriously.
I own a downtown Portland acupuncture clinic and have been in practice since 2007, I am licensed in Portland, and I have treated a vast array of chronic and acute health concerns in my practice with great success. Feel free to visit my website, FB page, or call 503-442-1205 to set up your free consult.