What it is
Very simply put, acupuncture is the stimulation of a specific point on the body using a single-use, sterile needle. There are hundreds of acupuncture points all over the body, and they are connected to each other by the body’s meridians, or channels.
One of the questions people most often ask me is if acupuncture hurts. The experience of receiving acupuncture is a highly personal one: the same points are not sensitive on each person, and the sensation of receiving treatment varies, too. Some people feel the needles going in, and describe that as a slight prick. Others don’t notice the insertion.
Often there is a feeling after the needles have been inserted that is known in the profession as the “arrival of qi.” This means that the points are beginning to communicate with each other and the body. Again, the feeling is individualized and is often described as warm, heavy, cool, tingling, or flowing.
How I do it
My training and approach to healing are different in kind from that of modern biomedicine. I am not a medical doctor performing acupuncture. I am an acupuncturist.
For example, if you come to see me with a biomedical diagnosis of heart disease, I may or may not focus on points that have to do with the heart organ itself. I will investigate your complaint through Chinese medical diagnostic procedures, which take the whole body into account, and are not compartmentalized into systems. This approach to achieving and sustaining health is one of acupuncture’s greatest benefits.
I came to see Brian several months after breaking my arm. In a single visit, he was able to restore full mobility and alleviate lingering discomfort in my wrist. I will be back!
— J.W., age 50
I found it was very helpful during a time when I was challenged with work stress. These treatments were painless, and very relaxing. It was interesting to learn about this ancient medicine too. Thank you for being available to our community!
— S.W., age 66
I went to Brian for a few summers while in VA (we had been snow birding in FL and have since moved there.) I wanted support for a few chronic health issues so I sought out Brian's expertise based on a friend's referral. I found him to be empathetic and resourceful. He used techniques like gua sha and massage that I hadn't had before with other acupuncturists. His recommendations for a Chinese herbal tea for cystitis was spot on. I also found him to be very generous as he often offered me things he had grown like ginger root. I really enjoyed our conversations and his interest in growing medicinal plants. The clinic is a very nurturing space as well. I highly encourage you to try this healing acupuncture gem in Fincastle, VA! And I love Mary Beth's newsletters and sense of humor!! What a great team!!
— C.C., age 65
I came to Brian holding a lot of trauma in my body. Immediately, I felt a sense of safety in his treatment room, if not in my own skin. His approach to acupuncture goes far beyond placing needles. His knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Herbalism helped him read what was happening in my body, and helped release things I could not have accessed on my own. I now live across the country, and have not found any other practitioner who comes close to bringing the same level of healing and expertise as I found at Huwe Acupuncture.
— S.S., age 35
I love Huwe Acupuncture. I’ve been going to Brian since December ’23 after a friend’s recommendation. He has helped me come to my best health yet— I feel better, my symptoms have improved, and my annual lab results back it up.
Brian’s knowledge and skill, paired with a compassionate, intuitive approach have guided and reassured me through digestive issues, breast health, a sprained ankle, inflammation, grief, sleep problems, and more. I’ve learned a lot from Brian and I enjoy the discussions we have. And I’m always excited to take home the occasional herbal concoction!
Much gratitude to the Huwes for running a successful local business that keeps us all healthy and happy.
— K.M., age 48
I always leave Huwe Acupuncture feeling better than when I walked in. I appreciate how attentively Brian listens to my concerns and tailors each treatment to what I need in that moment.
— P.N., age 49
Very positive experience with Brian as he helped me with recovery from cancer surgery, chemo and radiation. We worked on everything from salivation improvement to facial nerve regeneration to tense muscle relaxation. Good improvement for all three issues.
— J.W., age 70
