Our Approach
Ancient wisdom. Modern science.
Real results.
At Village Acupuncture, we diagnose patient conditions using multiple techniques to ensure that we have as much information as possible before we provide treatments or recommendations. In addition to patient interviews, physical exams, and a review of medical history, we also use a few additional diagnostic tools and methods.
Acugraph
Acugraph is modern technology applied to ancient medicine: it utilizes state-of-the-art software to measure the resistance of energy resistance in Ohms. Acugraph measures electrical impulses and resistance at 24 acupuncture points, which are more conductive than the surrounding area, and generates a graphical representation of your meridians and energy flow.
Acugraph provides vital information about the energetic and homeostatic imbalances in your body, which allows us to determine more precisely where the equilibrium among different systems in your body—such as the circulatory, digestive, nervous, or musculoskeletal systems—might be malfunctioning. The tool provides a visualization of energetic and homeostatic imbalances at the time of diagnosis, so we perform an Acugraph at each of your appointments to track changes and progress over time.
When used in combination with other diagnostic techniques, Acugraph enhances our understanding of a patient’s condition by providing a clear, objective record of the healing progression, which allows us to calibrate and recalibrate treatments to achieve better results. The best part is that patients can see the results for themselves at the time of treatment, and we send digital copies of graphs to patients after their session through a secure, HIPAA-compliant email system.
Diagnostic Palpation
At Village Acupuncture, we also utilize two forms of diagnostic palpation: tongue and pulse.
Observation and analysis of the tongue, sometimes called “tongue diagnosis,” is an integral part of Chinese medicine. With training, it’s possible to discern a surprising amount of information about a patient’s health from the shape, color, and coating of their tongue. For example, a healthy tongue is pale red, slightly moist, evenly shaped, and it usually displays a thin, white, fur-like coating. By contrast, a pale, swollen tongue with “scalloped” tooth marks can indicate deficiency (cold), while a cherry-red tongue can indicate excess (heat). If only a certain area of the tongue is red, it can signify heat in a corresponding organ. Someone with “heart heat” and symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, or overthinking, for example, will typically have a red tip on their tongue. People with chronic asthma or lung deficiency often have a little dip in the “lung region” of their tongue. Liver stagnation, which can have symptoms such as irritability and PMS, often manifests as an orange or reddish hue with scalloping along the edges of the tongue, and blood stagnation often produces a purplish hue. Because certain foods and medications can also affect the appearance and texture of the tongue—coffee, for example, will turn your tongue coating yellow and Pepto-Bismol will turn it black—tongue diagnosis is only used in conjunction with other methods of diagnosis.
Pulse palpation is another important diagnostic technique used in Chinese medicine. The pulse is discernible at three different locations on each wrist, and we can tell a lot about the quality of circulation, metabolic function, and organ health using pulse palpation. For example, a normal, healthy pulse flows smoothly and consistently through the arteries, while specific organ imbalances can often be felt in the three distinct pulse points on each wrist. Like tongue diagnosis, pulse palpation is only used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods.
Your quality of life is our mission.
We believe everyone deserves to live without unnecessary pain, stress, anxiety, and suffering—improving your quality of life is our mission. Our full-service clinic offers seven private treatment rooms, the latest diagnostic technology, an onsite herbal pharmacy, and a warm, welcoming, and relaxing atmosphere.
We are currently taking new patients.
Let us help.
Village Acupuncture is conveniently located in downtown York, only a short drive for residents of southern Maine and seacoast New Hampshire. If you are experiencing chronic pain, mental health concerns, or a diminished quality of life due to illness or physical injury, or if you are just curious about what acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine can offer, consider scheduling a consultation with one of our licensed practitioners.
Proudly Serving Veterans
Village Acupuncture is proud to be an in-network Community Care provider for veterans. Visit the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs website to learn more about the Community Care program.
Inclusivity Statement
At Village Acupuncture, we believe that trust, respect, and dignity are the foundation of effective healthcare. Our team is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for every patient, regardless of their age, health status, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, nationality, or cultural background.