What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, sterile, one-time use, disposable needles at precise locations on the body that creates a healing response.  This form of healing is one aspect of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice that also includes herbal medicine, cupping, moxibustion, guasha, and qigong & taiqi (breath exercise).

How does it work?

The principles of TCM are modeled much after observations in our natural world – our bodies are merely smaller versions of our surroundings.  Imbalance in the form of pain, emotional stress, and disease cause a disruption in the flow of qi (pronounced chee, translated to ‘energy’ or ‘life force’).  Qi runs along specific pathways in our bodies called meridians or channels.  When acupuncture is performed, qi can be restored, balanced, unblocked or invigorated to promote better health.

Modern science is unclear how acupuncture works.  Much of the leading research suggests that with the insertion of the acupuncture needle, the localized trauma creates enough of a disturbance in the body that our nervous system and nerve impulses get triggered and begin to release the necessary chemicals and hormones into the body to heal imbalances.

Does it hurt?

Typically, the sensation of receiving acupuncture is quite mild. There can be many sensations associated with receiving acupuncture that are all “normal” – dull ache or heaviness to a sensation of movement or tingling all indicating the arrival of qi.  Often a patient feels no discomfort at all and drifts into a state of relaxation when the needles are set.

What can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture can treat a multitude of ailments and disorders.  You do not have to have anything necessarily “wrong” to get acupuncture; it is a great way to get a tune-up of the system and relax the entire body to attain optimal health.  However, here is a sampling of what is most commonly treated with acupuncture:

• Pain – chronic, acute – sprains/strains/traumas, osteoarthritis, neuralgia, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, bursitis, plantar fasciitis, etc.
• Mental/Emotional – symptoms of: stress, anxiety/depression, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, OCD, etc.
• Gynecology – fertility support, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menopausal symptoms, etc.
• GI Disorders – IBS, colitis, constipation/diarrhea, gastritis, acid reflux, etc.
• Respiratory – asthma, COPD, allergies, bronchitis, sinusitis, etc.
• Dermatology – psoriasis, eczema, acne, rosacea,  hives, dermatitis, uticaria, etc.
• General health conditions – fatigue/lethargy, headaches/migraines, poor focus, memory/concentration, etc.

Hello, my name is Erica Chu – born and raised Chinese-American Texan hailing from Houston and Austin. I studied at The University of Texas at Austin earning dual bachelor’s degree in Linguistics and Asian Studies. Soon after realizing that my pursuits in corporate America did not align with my long term career aspirations, I took the plunge to earn a master’s degree from one of the leading institutions for Chinese medicine studies, AOMA School of Integrative Medicine.  I immediately became nationally and state board certified so I could join the incredible team at South Austin Community Acupuncture as one of their acupuncturists. Since moving to San Antonio in 2017, I have established my private practice and worked as part of the wellness team at Rackspace  headquarters from 2017-2019.

I believe that many things are possible with the right balance focused effort, patience, and compassion for yourself. Chinese medicine is extraordinary in that it brings a new level of awareness between the mind and body, reminds us that we are capable of healing and overcoming. My specialties include pain management, stress reduction/relaxation therapy, and dermatological conditions.

In my free time enjoy traveling and exploring new destinations with my family, cooking, yoga & meditation, naps and energy work.  Call or email to book your appointment today! I can’t wait to meet you!

• AOMA School of Integrative Medicine – Masters of Oriental Medicine (MAcOM)
• Texas Medical Board – Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc); AC01414
• National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) – Diplomate of Oriental Medicine; ID No.: 152028

Menu of Services

We accept all major credit cards including HSA/FSA, cash, and check.

Service	Price *New pricing effective 9/5/22
Acupuncture - New Patient (60 mins)	$95
Acupuncture - Follow Up (45 Mins)	$75
Acupuncture - Senior (65+) Student/Teacher, Active Military *ID required, only eligible for follow-up appointments	$60
Cupping Only (30 mins)	$40
Herbal Consultation (does not include price of herbs)	$60
5-Points Package (follow-ups only, expires within 6 months)	$337.50 (10% discount)

Terms of Service

** We require a 24-hour notice for appointment cancellations. Late cancels or no-shows will result in a $35 charge or invoice to be paid upon receipt.

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Thank you for visiting Access Acupuncture!

Call, email or fill out the form below for inquiries or general questions.
Call/text, or email to schedule your visit.

By Appointment Only  
Last appointments will be taken 1 hour before the end of business.

Sunday  9-4

Monday  9-6

Tuesday 9-6

Wednesday 12-6

Thursday 9-4

Friday  Closed

Saturday  Closed

Phone/Text  (210) 504-5544

Location: 12915 Jones Maltsberger Rd, STE 600, San Antonio, TX 78247