Eastern Medical Center » Community Service

Eastern Medical Center Expands Into Europe

Dr. Teresa Shen — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 16:16:50 +0000

Eastern Medical Center is in an expansive WATER & WOOD phase. That means we are growing. And in order to continue to grow the clinic, I travelled to Europe to research state-of-the-art facilities in London and Scotland. We are expanding Eastern Medical Center’s database of ideas and influences to grow into a world-class healing retreat.

Our research began earlier this year by hiring a communication and spa consultant, Gary C. Smith. Thus far, we have made presentations at Anabhuti Center, San Ramon Valley Care Center, Sun Valley Toastmasters, Coldwell Banker Realtors, Kiwanis of San Ramon, Foothill High School Health Quest and Paris Beauty School.

We attended a workshop by Efrem Korngold, author of Between Heaven and Earth, to determine the direction of other Chinese Medicine centers. That workshop further inspired our presentations, adding a 30-slide PowerPoint presentation on Chinese Medicine delivered to Foothills High School before 1,600 students in March.

Our brainstorming sessions concerning established Chinese Medicine clinics in Europe gave us these questions:

Dr. Shen of Eastern Medical Center visits acupuncture facilities in London and Scotland.

How do they function? What are the differences?
What office systems are they using?
What is the public’s response to Chinese Medicine?
What new-age modalities are in use (such as phototherapy, detox bathes, light modalities)?
How are the offices using Feng Shui?
How eclectic can a center be?
Do they implement continuing education?
How do they market their clinic?
Are there speaking opportunities in Europe?

We definitely found speaking opportunities because they are interested in what we are doing. The buildings are different; everything is very old, but the environment — the calm Feng Shui of the offices and the incredible need for record keeping — are similar. The free health care systems in Europe are not as “free” as advertised. With the freedom comes a very high tax base.

All the clinics were very curious about new modalities such as phototherapy and needleless acupuncture. Patented herbal remedies seem to be in all clinics; the old-fashioned herb shop look is fading. Places like Henry’s Herbs in Oakland are becoming rare in London.

Cross marketing (aligning primary care physicians with Chinese Medicine) is the wave. There is no conflict or competition for patients, much like what we are experiencing here in Pleasanton.

Educating the public was a priority in all the clinics we visited. I was especially impressed with AcuMedic Centre, where doctors have been trained in both Western medicine and Chinese medicine, so they are able to advise with a balanced viewpoint. They have more than 30 years of experience and offer knowledge to both the medical profession and the general public.

I spoke to groups at LCTA College & Clinic in London, a private college offering full courses in Chinese Medicine. They are a non-profit, which is an odd way of setting up a clinic, but it works very well for them in the kinds of services and education they offer to the students and the public.

I am extremely rested and eager to be back at the clinic. We are very excited to share the results of our research through our website, our newsletter and our blog. I will be sharing more stories and detailing tips for how I handled jetlag.

It is our wish to change health care in America — to truly change health care into wellness.

Acupuncture Brochures – A Great Intro to TCM

Dr. Teresa Shen — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 15:53:56 +0000

For some, acupuncture is a departure from the way they’d “typically” approach a health situation. In those cases, acupuncture brochures can come in very handy. This is especially true if you’re the one suggesting that somebody else consider trying acupuncture for the first time. You may not feel that you can adequately communicate what acupuncture is and how it works. You may not be entirely clear how to articulate what they can expect from their first visit. Or, they may be coming for a reason very different from yours and you need some “backup” to speak to that issue. Sometimes, the easiest thing is to hand someone a brochure and tell them to “take their time to think about scheduling a visit,” and that “you’re there if they have any questions about your experience.” Acupuncture brochures can help to take the pressure off the person because they can go back to the familiarity of their own home and really digest the new information until they have the comfort level necessary to follow up.

Eastern Medical Center offers a number of complimentary acupuncture brochures both in the office and right here in this post, which can be downloaded and printed:

‘Your First Visit’ Acupuncture Brochure

Download: (Acupuncture brochure – Your First Visit)

It’s easy for us in California’s Bay Area to forget that acupuncture is still a mystery (or even a scary unknown) to some. But once a person understands what to expect from their first visit, things are quickly demystified and comfortable. From there, newbies often get quite excited about the benefits and possibilities of acupuncture.

Here’s an excerpt from the “Your First Visit” Acupuncture Brochure:

Initial visits generally last from 30 to 90 minutes. Your acupuncturist will take a detailed health history and a physical exam and will provide you with your unique treatment plan.

During the first exam, your acupuncturist will spend time getting to know you and your health concerns. You may be asked a wide range of questions about your symptoms, eating, exercise, sleep habits and emotional states — anything that may offer insight into your health. Once your acupuncturist has gathered enough information, you’ll receive a comprehensive diagnosis and a treatment plan that will explain:

Your underlying imbalances
Your timeline of care
What types of treatment you will receive

‘Acupuncture Questions & Answers’ Brochure

(Click here to download)

What is acupuncture? What will my acupuncturist do? What is cupping? Will my insurance cover this? This “Questions & Answers” acupuncture brochure will put your mind at ease — quickly answering the most common acupuncture questions on people’s minds.

Here’s an excerpt from “Acupuncture Questions & Answers”:

How safe is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects except for feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.

‘Acupuncture & Sports’ Brochure

(Click here to download)

More and more recreational to professional athletes are utilizing the benefits of acupuncture to heal faster and perform better. If there’s an athlete in your life, he or she should take five minutes to read this “Acupuncture & Sports” brochure. It could change their life — or at least get them back to the sport they love far faster.

Here’s an excerpt from “Acupuncture & Sports”:

In today’s hectic lifestyle, we often don’t allow adequate time to heal. We use painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications to dull the aches and pains and reduce inflammation. It’s a quick and easy approach, but only a temporary fix … Acupuncture can provide a competitive edge, leading to improved performance. It is also a viable therapy in the treatment of acute sprains, strains and pains. This ancient and effective form of health care can reduce swelling, improve range of motion, strengthen your body, speed recovery time and address any underlying problems that could contribute to a future injury. Acupuncture can help create a healthier, strong, faster and more agile You.

The Mystery of Meniere’s Disease

Dr. Teresa Shen — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 22:24:59 +0000

Recently, a woman came into my office who had been struggling with headaches, vertigo, nausea and balance. Her ears frequently filled up with fluid. Her general practitioner had diagnosed her with Meniere’s disease, a disorder of the inner ear that causes these symptoms. She was taking antihistamines like candy, and it was still not helping her. Her doctor told her that her only options were surgery and ear injections. But with surgery, the results weren’t guaranteed. And with injections, there was a chance she would lose her hearing.

She didn’t know what else to do. So after someone told her about acupuncture, she came to Eastern Medical Center. After I talked to her at length and checked her tongue and her pulses, I realized that had a lot of fluid in her body. I gave her herbs to reduce the fluid and did acupuncture, which increased her body’s healing ability to move out dampness.

After the first sessions, she noticed a few small changes. But after coming back twice a week for two months, she experienced a sharp decrease in pain; her ears weren’t filling up as much, either. Now she has no symptoms and just comes in once a month for maintenance.

(You can read a testimonial from the patient here.)

It’s possible to get relief from Meniere’s disease with acupuncture. Unlike western medicine, acupuncture isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. For example, I used a totally different method with another Meniere’s disease patient that was centered on her heart channel. Each person requires a different treatment and reacts differently to treatment. That’s why I spend a lot of time getting to know my patients, talking to them and figuring out what’s going on and where they are at.

If you suffer from Meniere’s disease, or another illness where you aren’t getting relief from your physician, come to Eastern Medical Center. I’ll take the time to understand your specific case — and help you get on the path to wellness.

Healing the Body, Cleansing the Mind

Dr. Teresa Shen — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 16:37:46 +0000

Please join us for a workshop and forum on cleansing and healing the spirit and body from the perspectives of Traditional Chinese philosophy and Raja Yoga Meditation. Dr. Teresa Shen will be the co-facilitator of the special event, which will be held Saturday, Feb. 6, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Anubhuti Meditation & Retreat Center in Novato.

Please join us for a special workshop on Saturday, Feb. 6 from 10-2 p.m. at the beautiful Anubhuti Meditation & Retreat Center in Novato.

The workshop includes a delicious and wholesome vegetarian lunch and lots of helpful and interesting information.

Topics covered:

The basics of Chinese philosophy from the Tao, Yin/Yang and Qi
Hibernation Inventory to determine Chinese Medicine Phases
Case histories from head to foot, including Q & A
Meditation philosophy, skills & techniques
Understand your mind and what makes you tick
Rediscover enjoying and using the positive qualities already latent within you
Draw peace, strength and tranquility from a higher source
Live guided meditation commentaries
Explore what does and doesn’t work for you

Register online at www.anubhutiretreatcenter.org or for more information, please e-mail: anubhuti@bkwsu.org or call 415-884-2314. For a convenient flier will all the details about this event, please click here.

Address:

Anubhuti Meditation & Retreat Center
820 Bel Marin Keys Blvd
Novato, CA 94949

All workshops and retreats are made possible by the generosity and contributions of the participants.

About the Facilitators

Teresa Shen, L.Ac, O.M.D. (Doctor of Oriental Medicine), 3rd generation practitioner of Acupuncture and Natural Medicine; lead doctor at Eastern Medical Center

Janardhan Chodagam, student and teacher of Raja Yoga Meditation for 11 years, resident of SF Brahma Kumaris Center, IT specialist for IBM Business Intelligence Best Practices

Dr. Shen Among Thursday’s ‘Voices of Gratitude’

Dr. Teresa Shen — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:49:15 +0000

We invite you to join us on Thursday, November 19, at 7 p.m. at the Dublin Radisson Hotel as Dr. Teresa Shen joins five other amazing women to celebrate the time of giving thanks. These women, all members of the Bright Side of Life, will share their stories of how they have transformed their adversities into gratitude, and turned life’s challenges into an experience of gratefulness. Dr. Shen’s talk is titled, “My Father My Hero.” She will talk about her gratitude for her father, renowned acupuncturist Dr. Mason Shen, and his crucial role in her life.

To learn more about the Bright Side of Life member participants, including Dr. Shen, please visit www.awakentothedawn.com and click on “The Bright Side of Life.” The event will be hosted by Bright Side of Life founder Sahar Kordahi, who won the 2009 Women’s Initiative “Woman Owned Business of the Year” Award.

This is an even perfect for friends and family. Can you think of two or three women that could benefit from this amazing gathering? Who are they? Pick ‘em up and bring ‘em along!

Please be prepared to pay $19.00 at the door. Hearty appetizers will be served. To register, please call (925) 315-8730.

Eastern Medical Center Wins Readers Choice Award

Dr. Teresa Shen — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:30:54 +0000

All of us at Eastern Medical Center wanted to take a moment to thank the readers of the Pleasanton Weekly for voting us as the 2009 Readers Choice Award winner in the “Best Acupuncture” category. We are so grateful for the support we receive from the local community and do our very best to live up to that praise through our services, helping area residents heal.

We regularly receive letters and e-mails from patients with inspiring stories of how acupuncture has changed their lives, and we thought in honor of this award we’d share a few brief excerpts here, including a special message from the students of Foothill High School:

“I want to express my appreciation for your expertise in both acupressure and acupuncture. I lost use of my left arm in 1984 leaving me the use of only my right arm. Since I lost use of my left arm, I have torn the rotator cuff of my right arm twice. I am unable to let my right shoulder heal completely because I am unable to give my arm the time it needs to rest. Since I began using your acupressure service, I am now able to not only perform my daily duties almost pain free, but I have also begun working out at the gym. I am strengthening my arm and shoulder with a reduced level of pain and it continues to lessen with each visit I have with you.

“I also want to thank you for the acupuncture you have given me. When I paralyzed my left arm the doctors told me I pulled the nerves out of my spine and there is nothing they could do. I occasionally experienced excruciating pain in my fingers on my left hand, which the doctors told me were phantom pains and gave me Vicodin to alleviate the pain. The acupuncture you’ve given me not only showed me that I still have the nerves that control my arm, but you are also able to control the “phantom pains” without medication. I know it is a long road before I can retrain my arm, but with your care I am given new hope. Again, thank you for your help and I will continue to use your service and tell others of the help you’ve given me.” –Armando A., teacher, Pleasanton

****

“I had a stroke a few months ago, and was hospitalized for three months. I went to Dr. Teresa Shen because my cousin always raves about her … I had intense vertigo, a throbbing headache that would not go away, shoulder pain on the left side, as well as numbness in my right hand and feet. After the first treatment I noticed I was able to rest better and my throbbing headache was gone! I went back the next week and noticed a reduction in my shoulder pain. On my third visit the numbness in my hands and feet were miraculously gone! And this time my shoulder pain is gone as well. Finally the vertigo started to lighten up and I cannot wait until my next visit. I also noticed more energy and the heavy, muggy feeling has left me.” –Jason C., business owner, Alliance Security, Pleasanton

****

“I first came in for infertility. I also had a history of eczema, anxiety, and skin rashes. Previously I had three miscarriages. I could not have the door closed at night from fear and anxiety before. I went to the Eastern Medical Center for acupuncture and herbs. I was receiving treatment for three months for all of the above, especially infertility. Now I have the happiest baby girl! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I will be coming inf or my next baby!” –Wakana H., homemaker and mother of two girls, Pleasanton

****

“I have had a chronic/severe “tennis elbow” for around 10 years. Through traditional medicine, I had two cortisone shots to try in alleviate the pain. They did mask the pain for about nine months each time I had it done, but it never really lasted and, as you know, having these injections is no fun and really not good for your body. So, in January I mentioned to my current medical doctor that I was going to try acupuncture and he was very supportive, and said it was probably something he needed to try himself too.

“Having never had “acupuncture or acupressure” done before going to the Eastern Medical Center, I was hesitant and curious at the same time. It has now been 4+ months and my tennis elbow has gone from a pain threshold of 7-8 (out of 10) down to 1-2. Dr. Shen has done an amazing job and to have experienced the progress without any shots or side affects is truly awesome.” –Ray T. Hill III, Livermore, CA

****

“My classmates and I really appreciated Dr. Teresa Shen’s expert knowledge and demonstration of the many aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Not only did she present a very informative and eye-opening lesson in the classroom, she also brought awareness to our student body during our Health Quest health fair. Dr. Shen’s advice helped me realize that Eastern medicine presents countless medical options. She is very helpful, friendly and is extremely easy to talk to. As someone who wants to study Chinese medicine, I found her words encouraging and her personal experiences inspiring. For students who are looking into studying TCM, I recommend shadowing Dr. Teresa Shen. For teachers hoping for an excellent lesson in Traditional Chinese Medicine for their students, I recommend asking Dr. Shen to speak in the classroom because her enjoyable lesson is balanced with enriching information yet fun demonstrations.” –Michelle Choi, Foothill High School, Health and Bioscience Academy

If any of these stories struck a chord with you, please feel free to call Eastern Medical Center to see how we can help you or your loved one feel better and live happier.

About Dr. Teresa Shen

Dr. Teresa Shen is a Board Certified and California-licensed acupuncturist at Eastern Medical Center in Pleasanton. She earned her Doctor of Chinese Medicine degree from Tianjin University in China, where she studied and conducted research at China’s top Traditional Chinese Medicine hospital. She is especially passionate about family health care using natural healing.

Finding Relief Through Acupuncture: Cancer & Chemo

Dr. Teresa Shen — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:45:35 +0000

Cancer treatment can involve so much suffering, especially for those receiving chemotherapy. There’s long hours of treatment, nausea, physical side effects such as losing your hair and heavy emotional weight and anxiety.

There can also be great beauty during times like these, when we see what (and who) really matters … when we see past the superficial to the true being inside … when people come together to overcome adversity.

These stories—and there are so many of heroic patients overcoming illness—are so heartwarming. But what breaks my heart as a physician is knowing some of their suffering is avoidable through utilizing Eastern medicine.

Acupuncture is a powerful resource for both treating disease and alleviating cancer-related nausea, pain, numbness and even anxiety. Most of my patients find me after already going through cancer and chemo, and they come to keep their body healthy so that cancer does not return and other ailments can’t take hold. Acupuncture helps cancer patients feel stronger in body, mind and spirit … and helps create hope and give the support many need.

I am proud to be a part of The Sandra J. Wing Healing Therapies Foundation as well as the Tri-Valley Community Foundation and to have volunteered my services to Relay for Life, being of service when and where I can.

There are many fine organizations raising awareness about illness-causing agents and Eastern treatment options. Most recently, I have been corresponding with David Palombo, the National Awareness Coordinator for the Mesothelioma Center (asbestos.com). He writes:

“Acupuncture has been linked to alleviating the nausea associated with chemotherapy and the pain incurred from the constant surgeries that cancer patients undergo. The Mesothelioma Center offers the most comprehensive and current information on asbestos exposure and a complete list of malignant mesothelioma symptoms.”

Their site also points out that when it comes to the treatment of asbestos-related cancers, acupuncture treatments not only relieve pain but make breathing much easier.

We will continue to use this blog to shine a light on patient resources, so feel free to post a comment if you know of something we should spotlight. And if you or someone you love is in pain and suffering from cancer-related treatment, I encourage you to set up a consultation to discuss how Eastern medicine may be able to provide some additional support, healing and relief. It would be an honor to help.