Conexion is the Spanish word for connection. We strive to aid our patients connect with their physical, mental, and emotional health in an effort to make them feel more empowered in their bodies. That empowerment is then carried out like a ripple to their families, friends, and larger communities. A feeling of wellness connects us more to ourselves and to each other. We truly believe that as we individually heal so do our communities.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), also referred to as Eastern Medicine, has been practiced in China for over 3,000 years and was first introduced in the United States in the 1800s. This form of medicine developed through observation of the natural world and through the study of live bodies.

Eastern Medicine takes the health of the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of the body into account. The main principle of TCM is that of finding balance. Balance between the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual pursuits as well as balance between yin and yang. If we focus too much on our physical health and not at all on our mental health then we are out of balance and this could lead to health issues. If we are too stimulated (yang) and don’t get enough sleep (yin) we begin to experience insomnia and our bodies don’t have enough rest to recuperate and function properly the next day. However if we sleep (yin) too much then our bodies don’t get enough movement (yang) and we begin to feel heavy in our bodies and can’t function properly in our day to day either. Therefore Eastern Medicine uses modalities like acupuncture, herbal formulas, massage, cupping, guasha, and lifestyle recommendations to bring the body back into balance to restore health and a better quality of life.

Acupuncture works by stimulating peripheral points that lie on specific meridians. Research shows that the specificity of acupuncture points follow and activate particular pathways in the central nervous system. Stimulation of these points activate sensory neurons, affecting pain processing in the central nervous system, and thereby decreasing pain receptors. Other studies have found that acupuncture points can reduce cytokine storms which drive systemic inflammation in the body. Acupuncture has also been shown to activate the vagal-adrenal axis. A process by which the vagus nerve signals the adrenal glands to release dopamine and thereby reduce cytokine release and decrease inflammation.

What is more widely understood is that acupuncture is able to increase blood flow to painful areas of the body. Increased blood flow simulates hormones, neurotransmitters, and immune system responses that activates the body’s pain relieving response. Just like a paper cut that signals the body to focus on that small wound to scab and heal; so does acupuncture signal to the body what areas to focus its healing energy on.

Lastly, we all carry lots of stress from living in a fast pace society, from the bombardment of cultural and societal pressures, and from having to raise a family and still make a living. Being able to lay down and allow your body to focus on itself while being able to relax is healing in itself. Acupuncture needles help your body gain groundedness, promote relaxation, and allows the space for us to focus on ourselves.

Yes, when performed by a properly trined and licensed acupuncturist (LAc). Licensed acupuncturists in the state of Texas are required to complete over 1,800 hours of acupuncture training (3-4 years of graduate level training) from a nationally accredited school. In order to practice, acupuncturists are also required to pass national board examinations and adhere to strict state guidelines for treating patients.

The FDA also regulates acupuncture needles as medical devices. Needles are sterile, nontoxic, and labeled for one-time-use to minimize the risk of infection. Licensed acupuncturists are trained to know appropriate depths and angles in which to insert needles in order to minimize the rare risk of complications. The most common side effects of acupuncture are minimal bleeding, bruising, and soreness at the insertion sites.

Acupuncture is widely accepted as a safe, natural, pharmaceutical-free, and effective treatment method in the U.S. with a low risk of complications when conducted by a licensed and properly trained professional.

Depending on the location of needle insertion, a patient may experience different degrees of sensation. Needles placed on the hands and feet tend to elicit more sensation due to the fact that these areas have lots of sensory innervation required to process finer sensations as we grasp items and walk. Pain is not commonly felt and sensations of pressure, achiness, and warmth can be felt at times. Most patients feel calm, relaxed, and tend to fall asleep during the treatment.

Dr. Nancy Caro is highly trained to needle in a manner that will elicit the least discomfort. She has a gentle approach and the treatment is always guided by your needs.

During your first visit/initial consultation Dr. Caro will first ask you questions in order to obtain a complete health history. If applicable she will also do a physical exam. She will then feel your pulse and examine your tongue, which provide further information that allow for a diagnosis and treatment plan to be formulated. She will then go over the treatment plan with you and discuss any questions you might have.

Acupuncture needle will then be administered while you are in a comfortable position. You will then be allowed to rest for 30 minutes. After the 30 minutes Dr. Caro will come in the room to remove the needles and discuss any final questions and at home recommendations.

You should allow 90 minutes for initial visits and 60 minutes for follow up visits.

Please wear loose fitting comfortable clothing to make it easier to get to specific points on your legs and arms.

Also ensure that you are hydrated and have eaten a small meal or snack at least one to two hours before your appointment. Acupuncture moves Qi/vital energy in your body and eating before a treatment helps avoid feeling dizzy or light-headed.

This depends on the health concern we are addressing and the person’s individual body constitution. Some patients have reported feeling a bit achy for a few minutes or hours at the needle insertion points. Some patients have reported feeling tired and sleepy after a treatment. Most patients report improvement in symptoms instantly or within the first few days following their acupuncture treatment.

You can help your body soak up the benefits of acupuncture by keeping hydrated, eating, and resting after your acupuncture treatment.

This depends on the health concern we are addressing and the person’s individual body constitution. Dr. Caro and you will discuss the number of treatments that she recommends based on your complete health history during your initial visit.