Balanced Method Acupuncture
Balanced Method Acupuncture uses carefully selected points, often away from the area of discomfort, to help relieve pain, restore balance, and support the body's natural healing process. This targeted approach may provide noticeable relief during or shortly after treatment.
Balanced Method Acupuncture
Balanced Method Acupuncture is a specialized approach to acupuncture that focuses on relieving pain, restoring balance, and supporting the body's natural healing response. Using carefully selected acupuncture points, often away from the area of discomfort, this technique works with the body's interconnected meridian pathways to encourage relief and improve overall function.
Unlike traditional acupuncture, which may involve placing needles directly in or around the affected area, Balanced Method Acupuncture uses a unique system of corresponding points throughout the body. For example, discomfort in the back may be treated using points on the hands, arms, or legs, allowing the affected area to remain free of needles.
One of the distinctive features of this approach is the potential for rapid results. Many clients notice changes in pain, tension, or mobility during their treatment, although individual responses vary. Treatments are tailored to your specific symptoms, with acupuncture points carefully selected and adjusted based on how your body responds.
Balanced Method Acupuncture is commonly used to help manage a variety of conditions, including:
Neck, Back & Shoulder Pain
Sciatica & Nerve-Related Discomfort
Headaches & Migraines
Arthritis & Joint Pain
Muscle Tension & Stiffness
Knee, Hip & Foot Pain
Tendonitis & Repetitive Strain Injuries
Chronic Pain & Reduced Mobility
Each appointment begins with a review of your symptoms and progress, allowing your treatment to be personalized to your individual needs. Depending on your condition, a series of treatments may be recommended to help maintain improvements and provide ongoing support.
Whether you're experiencing persistent discomfort, recovering from an injury, or looking for a different approach to managing pain, Balanced Method Acupuncture offers a targeted, thoughtful approach to care.
Discover a different approach to pain relief. Book your appointment today and experience the potential benefits of Balanced Method Acupuncture.
Prices
Free Consultation I 10 Minutes
10 minutes
Free
514-830-1940
Let's quickly connect and find the right treatment for you.
Not sure which treatment is right for you? We're here to help you explore your options and find an approach that best supports your needs and wellness goals.
Enjoy a FREE 10 minute video or phone consultation to ask questions and learn more about our services, or book a 30-minute in-person consultation for a more detailed discussion of your concerns, health history, and personalized treatment options.
Your wellness journey begins with a conversation. Call us for a free consultation or book your 30-minute appointment today.
Acupuncture Initial Assessment & Treatment
75 minutes
$130
Your first visit begins with a thorough consultation to review your health history, current concerns, and individual needs. This essential assessment allows us to understand the underlying causes of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan. Your appointment also includes your first acupuncture treatment, tailored specifically to you.
Acupuncture Follow-up I 60 Minutes
60 minutes
$110
Continue your healing journey with a personalized follow-up acupuncture treatment. Each session includes a review of your progress, any changes in symptoms, and adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. This 60-minute appointment focuses on addressing ongoing concerns, restoring balance, and supporting lasting improvements in your overall well-being.
Give the Gift of Acupuncture
If you've experienced the benefits of acupuncture, why not share that experience with someone you care about? A Rooted Willow Acupuncture gift certificate is a thoughtful way to introduce friends and family to the potential benefits of acupuncture and support their journey toward better health and well-being.
What's the Difference Between Balance Method Acupuncture and Acu-Still Acupuncture?
Both treatments offer a personalized approach to wellness, but each has a different focus. Balance Method Acupuncture uses carefully selected points to target pain, improve mobility and address physical discomfort. Acu-Still combines acupuncture with the gentle touch of Craniosacral Therapy, creating a deeply calming experience designed to encourage relaxation and ease tension. Acu-Still is gentle and is designed for those who want less needles.
Not sure which treatment is right for you? We're happy to help you choose an approach based on your individual needs and wellness goals.
Note: The benefits of both approaches vary by individual, and neither guarantees symptom relief.
Which Acupuncture Treatment Is Right for You?
| Focus | Balance Method | Acu-Still |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Targeted pain relief and mobility | Relaxation and tension relief |
| Technique | Acupuncture points away from the affected area | Acupuncture combined with Craniosacral Therapy |
| Experience | Focused and symptom-oriented | Gentle, calming and restorative |
| Ideal For | Back pain, sciatica, joint discomfort, digestive issues, women's health, headaches and more... | Stress, muscle tension, and general well-being |
What is the difference between Balanced Method Acupuncture and Conventional Acupuncture?
Balanced Method Acupuncture (popularized by Dr. Richard Tan) differs from conventional (Traditional Chinese Medicine or local) acupuncture primarily in where needles are placed and how fast results are felt
Key Differences
Needle Placement (Distal vs. Local):
Conventional Acupuncture: Usually inserts needles directly into or very close to the painful or affected area (e.g., putting needles right into an aching lower back or sore shoulder).
Balanced Method Acupuncture: Uses a distal-needling approach, meaning needles are placed far away from the site of pain or dysfunction (e.g., treating a right shoulder or back issue by placing needles on the opposite arm or leg).
Core Logic & Mirroring:
Conventional Acupuncture: Selects points based on local tissue, trigger points, or internal organ patterns diagnosed via pulse and tongue.
Balanced Method Acupuncture: Views the body as an interconnected system of energy pathways (meridians) and uses anatomical "mirroring" and "imaging" (such as mapping the top of the body to the bottom, or left to right) to redirect blocked energy.
Speed of Results:
Conventional Acupuncture: Often builds cumulative relief over a series of traditional visits.
Balanced Method Acupuncture: Specifically designed to test for immediate relief (often within seconds or minutes of needle insertion, while the patient moves the affected joint)
Acupuncture may help support a variety of concerns, including:
Headaches & Migraines
Neck & Back Pain, Stiffness
Sciatica
Cold & Flu Symptoms
Poor Circulation & Peripheral Neuropathy
Arthritis, Joint Pain & Stiffness
Chronic Fatigue
Insomnia, Anxiety & Chronic Stress
Tendonitis
Menstrual Pain & Cramping
PCOS
Menopause Symptoms
Bell's Palsy
Addiction Support (Smoking, Food & Substance Use)
Acu-Still Acupuncture may help support a variety of concerns, including:
Stress & Anxiety
Nervous System Regulation
Mental & Emotional Fatigue
Insomnia & Sleep Difficulties
Muscle Tension & Tightness
Restlessness & Difficulty Relaxing
Burnout & Everyday Overwhelm
Headaches Related to Tension
Emotional Well-Being & Balance
General Fatigue & Low Energy
Mindfulness & Mental Clarity
Relaxation & Restorative Rest
Overall Wellness & Self-Care
A Moment of Stillness, Just for You
Unlike treatments focused on specific pain conditions, Acu-Still emphasizes relaxation and restoration. Each session provides a peaceful environment where you can disconnect from daily demands, settle your mind, and allow your body to rest. It's a gentle invitation to slow down and make your well-being a priority.
FAQ - Balanced Method Acupuncture
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Balanced Method Acupuncture is a specialized approach to acupuncture that focuses on relieving pain, improving mobility, and restoring balance within the body. It uses carefully selected acupuncture points, often located away from the area of discomfort, to help encourage relief. This targeted approach follows traditional Chinese medicine principles and is tailored to your individual needs.
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Acupuncture needles are exceptionally fine—much thinner than standard medical needles. Unlike hypodermic needles, which have sharp cutting edges, acupuncture needles are designed to gently pass through the skin with minimal discomfort. Most clients feel little to no sensation during insertion, although some points may produce a brief, mild pinch. Treatments are generally gentle, comfortable, and relaxing.
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Unlike some traditional acupuncture techniques that place needles directly in or around the painful area, Balanced Method Acupuncture often treats discomfort using points elsewhere on the body. For example, shoulder pain may be treated using points on the legs or hands. This allows the affected area to remain free of needles while addressing pain through corresponding meridian pathways.
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One of the distinctive features of Balanced Method Acupuncture is its focus on assessing changes in symptoms during treatment. Some clients notice improvements in pain, tension, or mobility while the needles are still in place. However, everyone's response is different, and some conditions require multiple sessions before noticeable improvements occur.
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Most clients find Balanced Method Acupuncture comfortable and relaxing. The needles are exceptionally fine, much thinner than standard medical needles. You may feel a brief pinch, tingling, or dull sensation during insertion, but discomfort is generally minimal. Your practitioner will always work within your comfort level.
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Your first visit begins with a thorough consultation to review your health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. Your practitioner will assess your areas of discomfort and select appropriate acupuncture points. During treatment, you may be asked to gently move the affected area to assess changes in pain or mobility. Your experience and feedback help guide the treatment.
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When performed by a qualified practitioner using sterile, single-use needles, acupuncture is generally considered safe. Mild tenderness, temporary bruising, or slight bleeding may occasionally occur. Serious complications are rare but possible. Before treatment, we'll review your health history, medications, and any concerns to ensure the approach is appropriate for you.
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Balanced Method Acupuncture may be a helpful addition to a broader pain-management plan for those experiencing persistent discomfort. Treatment focuses on carefully selected points intended to help manage pain, reduce tension, and support mobility. While acupuncture has research supporting its use for certain chronic pain conditions, individual results vary, and treatment does not always eliminate the underlying cause.
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Everyone responds differently. Some clients experience reduced discomfort, improved movement, or a sense of relaxation following treatment. Others may notice gradual changes over several sessions. Mild soreness or temporary fatigue can occasionally occur. We'll discuss your response, answer any questions, and recommend appropriate next steps to support your progress.
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Your well-being and comfort are important to us. Before your first Acupuncture treatment, we'll take time to discuss your health history, current concerns, and what you're hoping to gain from your session. This helps us determine whether the treatment is appropriate for you and tailor the experience to your needs. Whether you're seeking relaxation, relief from everyday tension, or simply a moment of stillness, your session is guided by you.
Balanced Method Acupuncture may help with:
Neck, Back & Shoulder Pain
Sciatica & Nerve-Related Discomfort
Headaches & Migraines
Arthritis & Joint Pain
Muscle Tension & Stiffness
Knee, Hip & Foot Pain
Tendonitis & Repetitive Strain Injuries
Chronic Pain & Reduced Mobility
Can I use Direct Billing from my insurance plan for Rooted Willow Services?
Your wellness journey should be simple and stress-free. We offer direct billing to most major insurance providers, making it easier to access the care you need without the hassle of submitting claims yourself. Please note that not all insurance companies or individual plans allow direct billing, and coverage may vary. We recommend confirming your acupuncture benefits with your provider before your appointment. When direct billing isn't available, we'll provide a receipt for you to submit for reimbursement.
What people are saying…
Jasmine S.
I've had such a wonderful experience with Kristina. She has a calm, attentive presence and genuinely cares about how you're feeling throughout the entire treatment. I always feel heard, comfortable, and safe in her care, and it's clear she's passionate about providing thoughtful, individualized treatments. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to anyone looking for an acupuncturist who truly listens and makes you feel supported every step of the way.
Ashley M.
Kristina was amazing! She took the time to assess my needs and was very gentle and attentive during the procedure. She would let me know what she was doing and checked in to make sure I was doing well. I did an acupuncture and cupping massage. When I went to see her my hip had been very sore from a previous injury and after I left it felt amazing! I’m booking my next appointment right now!!
Geoff C.
I recently had some acupuncture treatment done for my shoulder and I was very skeptical on how this was being done but I gave in and let Kristina Shannon do her magic, and to my surprise a day later my shoulder was all healed and felling great !!
so when I had some really bad back issues I tried her techniques again with some treatments in acupuncture to try to fix my back.
Again I feel her different techniques work great for healing my issues and I will definitely continue to visit her and get work done as I need it
Kristina Shannon was great to work with !!!!
William W.
Kristina is an amazing person who is great at her job.I suffer from Anklosing spondylitis and she's given me alot of my mobility back and reduced my pain to a point where I feel better now than when I was in my 20s. I’ve tried many different therapies like massage, physio, and osteopath with minimal relief. Acupuncture has been great for myself in reducing pain and inflammation while increasing blood flow. I would recommend everyone who suffers in chronic pain to give it a try!!
Shanna K.
I highly recommend Kristina! I have tried acupuncture many times before, but Kristina's treatments are on another level. After one session, my aches and pains have vanished. Her blend of acupuncture, cupping, Gua Sha, and hot towels made it the most relaxing experience. If you're worried about the needles, don't be, Kristina is a very caring and gentle health provider. I am a massage therapist and have sent some of my clients; all have reported back that they were very happy with the treatments they received.
Christian S-P.
Kristina is without a doubt one of the most caring, compassionate, and skilled acupuncturists on the South Shore. Her acupuncture treatments are effective and deeply healing. I highly recommend booking an appointment with her!
Tiffany P.
Kristina is truly the best at what she does, and we are lucky to have this service on the South Shore. Super thorough, very patient and caring, and makes me want to learn a lot more about the practice. I didn't realize how much tension I held until trying acupuncture and cupping, and it makes a world of difference that I can feel right away. Flexible appointments times and tailored treatment that is never rushed in a lovely, cozy location by such a warm, gentle soul.
Kaylee J.
Kristina is lovely! I love going to my appointments. She’s great at her job and very informative about the process as she’s going along and genuinely cares for your well being. She’s given my back and shoulders so much relief since I started seeing her - she’s always happy to answer any questions I have as we go along in treatment.
I recommend her 100%!
If you enjoyed your experience, I’d love to hear from you! Your Google review means so much and helps others discover Rooted Willow Acupuncture. Thank you for your support!
other services you might be interested in
Gua Sha & Cupping Massage
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Gua Sha is a traditional therapeutic technique that uses a smooth-edged tool to gently glide across the skin, stimulating circulation and helping release tension in tight, overworked muscles. This targeted treatment encourages blood flow to the area, eases muscle stiffness, and may help improve mobility and reduce discomfort. Often applied to the back, neck, and shoulders, Gua Sha offers a natural approach to relieving everyday tension and supporting overall well-being.
Release tension and feel renewed. Book your appointment today and experience the restorative benefits of Gua Sha.
Acu-Still Acupuncture
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Acu-Still Acupuncture offers a calming, restorative experience designed to help quiet the mind and encourage deep relaxation. Using fine acupuncture needles placed at carefully selected points, this gentle treatment aims to ease tension, calm the nervous system, and support emotional well-being. It's an opportunity to slow down, unwind, and reconnect with a sense of inner balance.
Find your moment of stillness. Book your appointment today and experience the restorative benefits of Acu-Still Acupuncture.
Fire Cupping
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Fire Cupping is a traditional therapeutic technique that uses gentle suction to lift the skin and underlying tissues, encouraging local blood flow and helping release muscle tension. A brief flame creates a vacuum inside glass cups before they are placed on the skin, providing a soothing pulling sensation without applying heat directly to the body. This treatment may help ease muscle tightness, reduce discomfort, and promote deep relaxation.
Release tension and rediscover comfort. Book your appointment today and experience the restorative benefits of Fire Cupping.
Cosmetic Acupuncture
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Cosmetic Acupuncture is a gentle, natural approach to facial rejuvenation that uses fine acupuncture needles placed at carefully selected points on the face and body. This specialized treatment stimulates local circulation and may support the skin's natural collagen production, helping soften the appearance of fine lines, improve skin tone, and promote a healthier-looking complexion. By combining traditional acupuncture principles with facial wellness, Cosmetic Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to enhancing your natural beauty while encouraging relaxation and overall well-being.
Refresh your skin and embrace your natural radiance. Book your appointment today and discover the rejuvenating benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture.
Initial Consultation I 514-830-1940
Curious about Acupuncture and other services, but don't know where to start?
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Let's connect and find the right treatment for you.
Not sure which treatment is right for you? We're here to help you explore your options and find an approach that best supports your needs and wellness goals.
Enjoy a FREE quick phone consultation to ask questions and learn more about our services, or book a 30-minute in-person consultation for a more detailed discussion of your concerns, health history, and personalized treatment options.
Your wellness journey begins with a conversation. Call us for a free consultation or book your 30-minute appointment today.