Treatment Methods

Dr. Russell & Dr. Cutler practice Traditional Chinese Medicine, which includes the following treatment methods:

Acupuncture – The insertion of super-fine needles into the skin at specific acupuncture points to move qi, blood, and fluids in the body.

Chinese Herbal Medicine – Chinese herbs and medicinals can either be taken internally in the form of teas and pills, or applied externally in the form of poultices, plasters, and ointments. Herbal prescriptions are based on each individual's condition and diagnosis.

Moxibustion Therapy - A soothing and warming process that involves the burning of moxa (Chinese Mugwort) over areas of the body or individual acupuncture points. Most often used for pain and inflammation.

Tui Na Massage – A form of Traditional Chinese medical massage and acupressure that is used in combination with acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to treat a wide range of conditions.

Cupping - A technique in which small glass cups are placed on the skin via suction created by heat. This process stimulates blood flow and moves qi and feels like a deep tissue massage.

Dietary Advice - Differing from western nutritional advice, this is based on each individual's condition, lifestyle needs and Chinese medical diagnosis.

Other Healing Methods - Including breathing techniques, Chinese sleeping practices, Tai Ji, Qi Gong, and stretches.

Fire glass cupping on a patient's back

Integrative Oncology

The Society of Integrative Oncology uses the following definition (from Witt, Claudia et al, JNCI Monographs): 

"Integrative oncology is a patient-centered, evidence-informed field of cancer care that utilizes mind and body practices, natural products, and/or lifestyle modifications from different traditions alongside conventional cancer treatments. Integrative oncology aims to optimize health, quality of life, and clinical outcomes across the cancer care continuum and to empower people to prevent cancer and become active participants before, during, and beyond cancer treatment.

Dr. Russell uses her advanced training in integrative oncology to bring the best and most current care to her patients. She will reach out to your oncology care team and communicate about best plans and courses of treatments, including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, nutrition guidance, and other Chinese medical treatment methods.