_ Acupuncturist is a convenient term, but to be clear, acupuncture is only one of the tools available to East Asian Medicine Practitioners (a rather cumbersome term, I agree).  The other modalities make up a substantial part of our training, especially when it comes to Chinese Herbal Medicine.  Herbal medicine can do much of what acupuncture can do, and sometimes more, especially when the body is weak and in need of nourishment.   Herbs also allow you to bring the treatment home with you.  There is also oriental therapeutic massage.  My training is in shiatsu, tuina and Thai traditional massage, and I tend to use a fusion of these modalities as is indicated by the condition being treated.  Massage is of great value when working with issues related to pain, but it can also help bring the body into a deeper state of relaxation, which is helpful for just about any condition. 

In addition to herbs and massage, there are other techniques that are generally grouped with acupuncture.  These include moxibustion, cupping, gua sha, plum blossom and electro-stimulation. 

An East Asian Medicine Practitioner often incorporates lifestyle and dietary counseling into the treatment plan as well.  Lifestyle counseling can include recommendations about exercise, relaxation techniques, stretching protocols, and changes in routine or habits. However, it is important to keep in mind that an East Asian Medicine Practitioner is neither a therapist nor a medical doctor.  All clients are encouraged to receive routine care from a primary care physician. 

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