Acupuncture Treatment & Testimonials

Here are a few comments from our patients:

For most of my adult life I have had back pian.  It was something that ilived with realizing that it came from a lifestyle that put stress on my body from a very young age.  I thought that everyone had similar pains and that they were just a part of life.
Sometimes the pain would be so bad that it would be incapacitating.  While living in Japan I attempted acupuncture to relieve the pain and it did a pretty good job.  It didn’t correct the condition, however.
In December of 2008 my wife and I thought that we might find an acupuncturist that could help us with some weight loss.  We didn’t even consider any other benefits that we might derive from treatments.  We checked out a number of therapists in the area for the right match. .that is when we met Howie, Buffy and Naomi.  They helped us with a plan that would help change the underlying causes of our pain not just treat the acute symptoms.
Because I had spent many years with my condition, Howie told me that it would not b e a quick fix to repair the damage.  We started a very intense treatment schedule.. soon I was experiencing much less pain.  So much so that I became paranoid that I might do something that would bring it back again.. over the last year my pain levels have dropped and I feel more confident that I can control the chronic pain that has plagued me for so long.  I still am somewhat paranoid that I will do something that will bring the pain back, but I am also confident that the treatments that I have received at 1st choice acupuncture have helped condition my body to better heal itself and that any relapse will be short-lived.
Overall the treatments that I have received have not only helped my back but also improved my total wellbeing.  Sinus infections, fatigue and other simple maladies that seem to plague all of us are no longer a chronic part of my life.
Thank you 1st choice acupuncture.
~Tom Miller~

I started acupuncture looking for relief for my headaches and high stress level. I've suffered from a daily headache for the last ten years, and my stress level has been through the roof. After only a few months of treatment, my relief has been immeasurable. I still have headaches, but the frequency and the severity has been reduced dramatically, and my ability to cope with my stress has increased greatly. Dr. Sun also put me on a cleansing program - not only do I feel much better, but to date I've lost an incredible 25 pounds and counting. First Choice Acupuncture was definitely the Right Choice for me.
~ Sara Throwbridge~

I started coming to see Howie earlier this year for several reasons; issues with my heart, pain and soreness in my ankle, shoulder, and lower back. I have had dramatic improvement in my shoulder and ankle, my lower back is improving, and my heart seems to be improving. (Harder to gauge) There are some other issues we are working on and I have every confidence that everything will come to a satisfactory conclusion.Thank you so much for the great care, and my thanks to a truly exceptional, wonderful staff.
~Michael Maxon~

Several health issues were pointed out to me, by Dr. Howie, during my 1st initial pulse reading at the NW Women's Health Show.  The accuracy of the reading peaked my interest to the point of wanting to find out more about acupuncture.  In speaking with Dr. Howie, I found out that being almost 50 did not mean that I had to live with the many health complaints that I have been living with for years.  For those of you who are near my age group you have probably heard the saying "It comes with age."  Well, within the first few visits, I felt like I was 20 years younger, I had a lot more energy, more than I have had in a long time and in addition to that I had a general feeling of well being.  I am pleased to say that after six months of treatment, my general complaints have improved by 90% and the few remaining chronic ailments that I have are 75% better.  I came to First Choice Acupuncture to find a cure, not just symptom relief and I am happy to say I am well on my way.
~ Rhonda Herman~

Increased sense of well being. Less fear and anger. Increased balance mentally, emotionally, and physically. Feeling of bliss after some appointments. Reduced use of natural hormone replacement. Improved happiness and joy. Reduced desire to use alcohol to self-medicate or remove boredom. I think my hair is getting thicker. Desire to remove sugar from diet. In pursuing perfect health, these acupuncture treatments have accelerated my progress.
~Linda Weiss~

I began seeing Dr. Sun several months ago for treatment of Chronic Depression. I am 40 years old, and I have suffered the effects of depression since my early teens. Over the years, I have tried talk therapy and various medications with only partial success, and sometimes, unpleasant side effects. Because the medications that I tried were the latest ones on the market, and because there is a lengthy history of depression and manic depression in my family, I was under the impression that my condition would never improve. Despite that, I decided to try acupuncture. Within the first week and a half, I noticed a dramatic improvement. Since then, I have seen substantial improvement despite reducing the dosage of medications that I am taking. I can not more highly recommend 1st Choice Acupuncture for anyone suffering from depression.
~E. Hill~

I had been suffering from migraine headaches almost daily for about a year. My husband had been going to 1st Choice Acupuncture for shoulder pain, and had mentioned my migraines to Dr. Sun during his treatments. He assured him he could treat the headaches with acupuncture, and that I should give it a try. It was not until I suffered what modern medicine called a "Simulated Stroke", which means there are symptoms of a stroke; temporary paralysis, temporary loss of vision, etc. All testing: CAT scan, MRI, EEG, did not detect a stroke; it was later diagnosed as "Migraine Related". I was treated with various medications, which brought on other side effects, such as ulcers, weight gain, etc., which threw my health into a downward spiral. It was very debilitating. I could no longer endure these massive headaches, and finally agreed to see Dr. Sun in December of 2008. He placed me on a treatment plan that he called "aggressive", which meant that I would have several acupuncture treatments for the next year. I can happily say that I saw significant improvement in the first 2 to 3 months, and now that I am midway through treatment, I rarely, if at all, get headaches, let alone migraines. I am still being treated for minor ailments; I have full confidence that these too shall pass. I would recommend acupuncture to anyone for whatever health problems you may have; physically or psychologically. I have been treated with the utmost respect and care at 1st Choice Acupuncture, and truly want to thank Doctor Howie Sun and Dr. Naomi Floyd for their kindness and their excellent care.
~Sheryl L. Valle~

In December of 2007, I came to 1st Choice Acupuncture after suffering through brain surgery to remove a benign brain tumor.  I was also suffering from a recurring nerve condition in my brain causing excruciation chronic pain.  Dr. Sun developed a treatment plan to address the nerve condition (Trigeminal Neuralgia), as well as the re-growth of the brain tumor. After a year of regular treatments, the recurrence of my Trigeminal Neuralgia attacks has been cut in half, and there has been no sign of tumor re-growth on my quarterly MRIs. Throughout the year of treatments, Dr. Sun has been able to address other ailments I have has such as bronchitis and GI issues in my colon.  My acupuncture treatments have been a very positive compliment to my Western Medical care!
~Trina Carlstrom~

"It appears there is a problem with your spleen," Dr. Sun said regarding his first pattern diagnosis. It meant nothing to me, as my spleen seemed a nearly disposable organ. Months later, occasions for stress mounted in my routine, until it one day came to a head. I felt my heart beating so hard it might burst in my chest, and it truly frightened me. I suspected blood pressure issues and again sought Dr. Sun.
We talked at length about what acupuncture and herbal medications could and could not do, and about my responsibility as a patient. We began twice-a-week treatments, coupled with my reducing caffeine intake and dietary supplement. Six months have now passed. The heart palpitations have been nearly erased.  The headaches I thought everyone suffered from (non-migraine) are mild and seldom.  We are now in that place in health recovery that once-a-week treatments are in the near future.  A brief medical bio like this means nothing to others until the real benefits are regarded.
It is not unusual for a golfer to experience stage fright when approaching the first tee.  Performance anxiety, others may call it. Acupuncture treatments and the rest of our regimen (this health procedure is, in fact, a partnership) have virtually eliminated that game time nervousness. My proficiency in the sport has become measurably better as a result.
I've wanted to commit this information to paper for a while, but intentionally delayed. It is one thing to feel better in health terms and I am grateful enough for that. It is another to have that change bring about a concrete and unexpected improvement in my daily affairs.
Thank you, Dr. Sun!
~Frank Krajewwski~

The experience I have had with acupuncture as been extraordinarily positive.  I feel so much better; more energetic and happy.  I look forward to the treatments, the quiet time and the rest.  Finding this way to care for myself has been a blessing!
~Nancy Lashinski~

1st Choice Acupuncture has provided me the most comprehensive service I've ever had ¨C I really felt taken care of! Howie, Buffy, and Naomi have taken the entire picture of my health into consideration, not just my symptoms.
After suffering from a long list of ailments, and taking a longer list of prescription medication to fix my symptoms (not my problems), I was starting to believe that I may always feel dis-eased.
I would have never discovered this path of renewed health on my own. Like everyone else suffering from aches and pains, I always thought it was unattainable.  Well, it isn't.  I have regained my health, spirits, and confidence, and am no longer on ANY medications.  Please accept my sincere thanks.
~Annika Washburn~

I have been truly amazed at the progress I have made since I started seeing Dr. Howie Sun. I have several health issues, but the highest on my list is my years of suffering from kidney stones. I have had stones since 1984, with attacks usually every year since; sometimes twice a year. I have had many surgeries and visits to the emergency room to get relief from the passing of the stones. I've been to several urologists that have told me that there is nothing I can do to prevent the stones. Howie started me on herbal medication that cleaned out my kidneys within two weeks, along with acupuncture. Within the first month of taking the medicine I passed four stones in about two weeks. I look forward to my visits with Howie each week as I find myself growing stronger and healthier each visit.
~Dalene Haynes~

I decided to try acupuncture for chronic sciatica and neck pain. I have two herniated lumber discs and four discs in my cervical area with varying degrees of degenerated disc disease. When I began acupuncture in March 2008, I wasn't able to stand or walk for more than five minutes before severe pain would shoot down from my right hip through my right leg. When this would happen, my right foot would go completely numb and I would have to sit down. My life was on hold until I got some pain relief. Acupuncture has given me my life back. It didn't happen overnight, but I steadily got better and less sciatic pain occurred. Today, I'm 80% better. I'm back exercising and recently walked for three hours without having to sit down at all!
~Darcy Pearson~

I met Howie Sun at the 2008 Women's Show in March. I signed up for a complimentary visit to see if acupuncture and herbs could help me feel better. I had never experienced either one. My background: I am a 53 year old woman and have been a flight attendant for 32 years. I have been pretty healthy all my life, up until the last three years. During that time, I had lower back surgery and a bone graft. This entailed two surgeries within 8 months! I suffered from low energy, stiff joints, tendonitis in my elbow, and weight gain for the first time in my life. To say the least, I was depressed. I met with Howie with the attitude that it was a 'last resort'; after all the drugs and physical therapy, it couldn't hurt, right? After Howie and I talked about the intensive program and commitment to treatment, I started. After three months of treatment, I am pain free. The amazing part is that I have plenty of energy, and I was motivated to start exercising and lost the weight. My husband sees the change and is thrilled to have my old self back. I am convinced that 1st Choice Acupuncture should have been my first choice instead of my last resort. I love the feeling of calm when I walk into this office. The staff is amazing. I have told everyone I know about my experience. The first step is to go; the second step is to commit to follow the plan. I am so excited to see how great I feel after I complete my treatment plan. I didn't realize how bad I felt until I felt better. I also have gotten off the pain medications, which is the best part. My motto is GO, SEE, and DO and 1st Choice Acupuncture. You will be so happy with the results.
~Jodi Griffiths~

I began acupuncture treatment for a tumor on my foot, for which surgery was recommended. The tumor was gone within two treatments. From there, I addressed chronic constipation and poor circulation, both of which I no longer endure. My present treatments for high eye pressure and injuries from two car accidents have resulted in success and pain free living. My continued care with 1st Choice Acupuncture keeps my body aligned with excellent health, and I am thankful! The customer care couldn't be better! And the teas are a great touch as well as the special herbal formulas.
~Kathryn Lengell~

Howie Sun gave a presentation to a Women's Group I belong to, and I was shocked at what he shared about the amount of toxins our bodies have to deal with daily. Shortly after that, I came in for a free consultation to learn more. Although my body serves me well without major pain or illness, I did have a low-grade nagging headache and agreed to four sessions of acupuncture to see if that would help.
    After just a couple of sessions, my headache was gone, and at that point, I realized how much I had been holding on to without acknowledging it. I'm now in for the long term and in filling out the forms. Again, I realized that there were/are a lot of things going on in my body that I had been ignoring for a long time. Since I rarely go to a doctor, I was under the impression that my body was operating at peak. For the most part that is true, and what has come to the surface blatantly is my insomnia. Again, the insomnia, along with my low-grade headaches, were never enough to send me to a doctor. Both of those outcomes are a result of "dis-ease" in my body, and I believe that acupuncture and herbs can take care of that. The next treatment for success will be releasing that 20 extra pounds that's hanging around my midsection. Still working on insomnia and lately I have had a couple of dreams, which tells me that I am in REM sleep, and that's healing in itself.
    Oh, one minor thing. One evening, I slipped off my sandals and slightly turned my ankle. After I pointed it out at my next acupuncture session, the acute pain went away; what a fast healing that was!
~Michelle Robbins ~

During the summer of 2007, I developed pain in my left elbow and right knee ¨C mostly attributed to tennis. I came to 1st Choice Acupuncture seeking relief. I knew that conventional medicine would have dictated that I stop playing tennis for a few months, which did not appeal to me. So Dr. Sun and I worked out a treatment plan that allowed me to keep playing, and within a matter of weeks, my pain was dramatically reduced.
Now, a year later, I'm still pain-free and playing tennis 2 or 3 times a week. I go in for treatment once a month, and enjoy the soothing, relaxed environment that Howie and Buffy have created. I'm now a firm believer in the effectiveness of acupuncture!
~Dean Ikeda~

A few sessions of acupuncture and the regimen of herbal medicine fixed my chronic stomach pain. Dr. Sun is very warm and considerate with patients, and is concerned with their overall well-being.
~Kathy Johnston~

My first visit with Howie was everything and more than I expected! I have panic attacks and take Xanex for medication. I haven't had a Xanex since my first acupuncture treatment. Well worth every penny! I love it! Most calming experience and Howie is very professional taking great care to make you comfortable.
~Catherine Siefert~

Since beginning treatment, I have been amazed with the way I feel. I have always lived with pain and lack of sleep, and even through I am being treated for weight loss, the treatments have made my other ailments almost disappear. The care I have received with 1st Choice Acupuncture has been the absolute BEST!!!
~A.B.~

I lost 12 pounds following the weight loss program for 1 month. I am the president of a start-up Biotech company, and meeting clients for lunches/dinners is the main contribution to my weight gain. My business associates and clients all noticed the major transformation in me, and I am excited about acupuncture! Not only have I lost the weight, I feel better! I feel more rested, and am able to concentrate more. My cold hands and feet are not as bad, and I don't get headaches like I used to.
~L.T~

I have tried several weight loss programs, and controlling my hunger was always very difficult. I just love the weight loss acupuncture program, in not only that I'm losing weight, but I'm on a healthy diet and not feeling hungry anymore. During other programs, I was often grumpy and felt that I could not control my hunger anymore. After treatments, I feel more relaxed and it makes me feel more energetic. I have been so amazed with my progress. After the first couple of treatments, my friends started noticing that I was losing weight. This has been the most successful weight loss program that I have done!
~Z.O.~

It's the day after my second treatment, and I've wanted to call you because I saw definite differences in my face this morning!!! I was surprised and pleased. The lines around my eyes, especially the right one, were much, much finer, not so noticeable. My cheeks were fuller, revitalized, not sort of 'sunken', and the lines on my forehead were slight. Dr. Sun, I'm a believer!!! Thanks again! See you soon!
~E.K.~

One treatment and my sciatica pain was completely gone! Amazing!
~G.L.~

I've replaced my hormone medication with herbs for my menopause symptoms. Not only does it work wonders on my hot flashes and night sweats, it makes me feel more energetic and also relaxed. I can just sense my body turning for the better. Thanks, Dr. Sun.
~M.A.~

I didn't know acupuncture could treat morning sickness. I wish I knew about this earlier. Thank you!
~D.N.~

Other Testimonials

On behalf of the University of Washington MBA Challenge for Charity, thank you for your generous support of this years -Best of the Northwest- Auction and Gala.  With your help, we had another outstanding year and generated tremendous support for the two incredible charities we work with: Special Olympics Washington and the Boys & Girls Clubs of King County.
Over the past ten years, University of Washington MBA students have volunteered more than 12,000 hours and raised nearly a million dollars to support the Special Olympics Washington and the Boys & Girls Clubs of King County.  Your contribution has helped us to support local family-related charities and develop business leaders with a lifelong commitment to community involvement and social responsibility.  Thank you for joining us in our work to meet this important mission.
We thank you for your generous donation and continued support, and look forward to working with you again in 2009.  Best wished and much gratitude.

Sincerely,
The 2008 Challenge for Charity Leadership Team
Amy Hughes, Ellie Peck, Carrie Stearns, Kevin Thomas, and Jerilyn Young