Business Details
14 Years
experience
Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Pacifica, CA
Acupuncture Works was founded by Dr. Ella Woods, DAOM, whose journey from entomology and biotech leadership to acupuncture and herbal medicine reflects a deep commitment to integrative healthcare. With over two decades of experience in public health and western medicine, I transitioned to traditional Chinese medicine after witnessing its efficacy in treating my own pet's chronic condition. My practice combines rigorous scientific training with holistic modalities, enabling collaborative care with MDs and specialized treatment plans. We focus on pain management, women's health, gastrointestinal disorders, and oncology supportive care, serving Pacifica and surrounding communities since 2012. My background in biotech contract management and academic research informs our evidence-based approach, while my residency at Yue Yang Hospital in Shanghai strengthens our clinical expertise.We prioritize patient education, preventive care, and personalized treatment protocols tailored to each individual's needs. Our facility in Pacifica offers accessible, compassionate care for both human and animal patients, reflecting my unique dual expertise in veterinary and human acupuncture. We maintain strict professional standards through continuous education and integration of modern research with traditional practices. Our goal is to empower patients through holistic healing, addressing root causes of illness while alleviating symptoms effectively.
Services
Pain Management
Women's Health
Gastrointestinal Health
Oncology Support
Weight Management
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We integrate 20+ years of biotech and public health experience with traditional Chinese medicine
- Our doctor holds a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine degree from ACTCM
- Specialized training in integrative oncology at UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Medicine
- Proven success treating both human and animal patients with acupuncture
- Collaborative approach with western medical professionals for comprehensive care
Services
Pain Management
Our acupuncture treatments address chronic pain conditions including arthritis, migraines, and post-operative discomfort. By stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms, we help reduce inflammation and improve mobility without pharmaceutical dependence. Patients often experience significant relief after initial sessions, with lasting benefits through continued treatment.
Women's Health
Specialized treatments for menstrual disorders, menopause symptoms, and reproductive health concerns. We address conditions like endometriosis and fibroids using herbal formulations and acupuncture to balance hormonal systems. Our approach combines traditional Chinese medicine with modern understanding of women's physiology for comprehensive care.
Oncology Support
Supportive care for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. We help manage treatment side effects like nausea, fatigue, and neuropathy while strengthening immune function. Treatments are coordinated with oncology teams to ensure safe, integrative care that improves quality of life during cancer therapy.
Gastrointestinal Health
Targeted treatments for digestive disorders including IBS, acid reflux, and inflammatory bowel conditions. Herbal medicine combined with acupuncture helps regulate digestive function and reduce inflammation. We address both immediate symptoms and underlying imbalances contributing to chronic gastrointestinal issues.
Weight Management
Holistic weight management programs combining acupuncture, herbal supplements, and lifestyle counseling. Treatments target metabolic regulation and appetite control while addressing emotional factors contributing to weight gain. Our approach focuses on sustainable, healthy weight reduction through natural methods.
People
Dr. Ella Woods
Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Dr. Woods transitioned from biotech leadership to acupuncture after witnessing its effectiveness treating her pet's chronic illness. She earned her DAOM from ACTCM in San Francisco following an MBA and 20-year career in medical research contract management. Her practice integrates western scientific rigor with traditional Chinese medicine, specializing in pain management and integrative oncology.
Questions
What conditions do you treat?
We treat chronic pain, women's health issues, digestive disorders, oncology supportive care, and weight management concerns using acupuncture and herbal medicine.
Do you accept insurance?
We provide superbill documentation for potential insurance reimbursement but do not directly bill insurance companies. Check with your provider for acupuncture coverage details.
How many sessions will I need?
Treatment plans vary by condition. Most patients see improvement within 4-6 sessions, with chronic conditions requiring ongoing maintenance treatments tailored to individual progress.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes, we use sterile, single-use needles and follow strict safety protocols. Our practitioner has extensive training in both traditional techniques and modern medical safety standards.
Can I continue western treatments?
Absolutely. We collaborate with MDs and specialists to provide integrative care that complements conventional treatments while minimizing side effects and enhancing outcomes.
What should I wear?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be easily adjusted for needle placement. You may bring additional layers as temperature sensitivity can occur post-treatment.
