What We Do
Angela Stritt M.Ac, L.Ac, holds a Master's of Acupuncture degree from Tai Sophia Institute, a Johns Hopkins affiliate in Columbia, Maryland. She has treated Capital Region families since 2008. Using a multi-discipline integrative approach, Angela uses a variety of techniques to address your unique situation.
“I also starting seeing Angela for acupuncture to help my lower back which has two herniated discs. She not only cares about what hurts on your body but also cares about what is bothering you emotionally. I can't give enough praise to Angela. Highly recommended!”
— Jen M.
Orthopedic
Acupuncture
Our specialty! Widely regarded as “Modern Acupuncture”, Orthopedic Acupuncture utilizes electrical stimulation and/or dry needling to address musculoskeletal injuries. NCA is one of the few resources in the Capital District that uses the EXSTORE™ system to find and correct muscular pain and effectively treat the associated muscle groups. Patients often notice an improvement in pain and flexibility after the first treatment and a reduction of inflammation and strength soon afterwards. Orthopedic Acupuncture is incredibly effective because it doesn’t just treat the initial injury, it also works to eliminate the dysfunction caused by that injury to prevent future problems.
Dry Needling
Dry Needling is the insertion of a needle in a trigger point, which is often referred to as a knot. This reduces the pain and sensitivity produced by these knots in the muscles. Pain relief after dry needling is well documented. Needling analgesia is due to effects on the peripheral and central nervous system. Dry needling has become increasing popular with athletes in the past 10 years. It is important to note that in the state of New York, ONLY Acupuncturists and specifically trained Physicians have the license to dry needle. Conversely, Chiropractors and Physical Therapists are not permitted. As with any modality, dry needling can be unsafe if performed by an unqualified Provider.
Traditional Acupuncture
Acupuncture causes the body to release neurotransmitters and endorphins, the body’s natural pain-killing hormones, as well as substances that relax the body and regulate serotonin. Other proven physiological effects of acupuncture include increased circulation, decreased inflammation, easing of muscle spasms and increased T-cell count which supports the immune system. This is why acupuncture is effective in treating such a wide array of symptoms- back pain, arthritis, PMS, and even infertility.
Gua Sha
Gua sha is part of traditional Chinese medicine in which a tool is used to scrape people's skin. Gua sha releases unhealthy bodily matter from blood stasis within sore, tired, stiff or injured muscle areas to stimulate new oxygenated blood flow to the areas, thus promoting metabolic cell repair, regeneration, healing and recovery.
Cupping
Cupping is used to treat pain, ease scar tissue deep within muscles and connective tissues, and reduce swelling and muscle knots. Also, like many complementary treatments, cupping is supposed to minimize circulating toxins by drawing them into the skin where they are more easily removed.