Shanghai Acupuncture & Herbal Services

I’ve been going to Shanghai Acupuncture for the past 3 weeks and I really like this place
I was being treated at Dana Faber cancer institute and my oncologist suggested I visit the Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies to make an appointment to start acupuncture treatment. When I did, I was informed that the first available appointment for a consultation was 3 weeks away. The receptionist gave me the names of the 3 acupuncturists who practice there and suggested I google them to find out where else they practice in case I could get to see one of them sooner
So this is how I came across Dr Hou whos practice is close to Coolidge Corner, across a Green Line T stop. Being new to acupuncture I wanted someone who has specialized in treating cancer patients, and the endorsement doesn’t get much better than being employed by a cancer clinic.
I started my treatment 3 weeks ago and I’m close to finishing my first course. In my experience Dr Hou is always courteous and efficient and goes out of his way to accommodate your schedule and needs. I can’t say yet whether the treatment is working or yet but I’ve decided I’m going to continue going and have a second treatment course
The only problem is that you have to pay out of pocket and get your medical insurance to reimburse you. I haven’t had any money back yet so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I will but to be fair, this would have been the case had I been treated at Dana Faber. Some medical insurance providers don’t have many acupuncturists on their lists
I haven’t tried his herbal services so can’t comment on that

Two years ago, I was mysteriously felled by joint pain that left me unable to do more than walk slowly. I went to several doctors, and after several blood tests the results came up nil. «We don’t know what’s wrong with you. Let’s take yet another blood test that isn’t covered by your health insurance!»
Why I didn’t go to acupuncture immediately as soon as any and all major chronic illnesses were ruled out, I don’t know. But finally I did, to the very capable and easy going Dr. Hou. He is a very lovely and kind man, with a gentle demeanor that almost belies his vast expertise. He is a medical doctor of both western and eastern persuasions, teaches at Harvard Medical School, and has a fervent fondness for his home town of Shanghai, hence the name.
I was in chronic, terrible pain for two month’s straight, and after two weeks of lying on Dr Hou’s table with needles sticking out of my forehead, ears, and shins, I started to feel better. Within a month I was back to my old self.
I received a student discount, with each session being $ 45, back in 2006. The rates may have gone up, but this seemed reasonable to me, particularly since I’d spent $ 500 on blood tests that produced no results whatsover. Also, he had very, very flexible hours — he can meet you very late (like 7pm) or very early, whatever you need.
I would highly recommend Dr. Hou. Check out his website for full details on all the ways he can help you.