I am a young woman who has suffered with rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia for over three years. Over that time I've been on methotrexate, steroids, Enbrel, and a variety of other medications to try to help control my condition, none of which have been particularly successful.
I never bought into the idea that rheumatoid arthritis was a lifetime sentence. And I've been trying to heal myself for the entire three years. I had some success with changing my diet, exercise, and lifestyle. I stopped having flare ups when I stopped eating wheat for instance. I had also been able to get off the enbrel shots when I started drinking green drinks and cut out several other foods I found affected my joints.
However, I wasn't seeing any more results with diet alone, and decided to try acupuncture at Steve's office.
I went into his office with daily, constant pain. I could barely use my elbows and my knees and back would occasionally act up as well. I was taking 7 methotrexate (a high dose according to my rheumatologist) and getting occasional shots in various joints to try and lessen the swelling.
The first time I went in, I was a bit nervous - even though I'd had an acupuncture treatment once before. But Steve was relaxed, knowledgeable, and had such an easy way about him, that the feeling quickly passed. The treatment itself was much simpler and less involved than I'd expected - just a few needles I could barely feel. But I left feeling relaxed, calm, and less stressed than I'd felt in several months.
I would like to say that healing of my joints was instant, that all the pain went away immediately, but that's not exactly how it worked for me. I can say that that even with the first treatment, I did feel like something had shifted in my body, but the change in my joints took a few sessions.
The healing of my joints was gradual, a process I didn't even realize was happening until it had come. By about the third week, I started to notice I felt lighter, my back didn't act up as much, my elbows straightened out a bit more. Not only did my joints begin to improve, but I felt more clear headed, and more at ease.
The second month only got better. My joints started straightening out completely, I stopped having chronic inflammation in my elbows, and my pain was becoming less in weekly stages. I even called up my rheumatologist and asked if I could lower the dose of methotrexate somewhat. Slowly and surely my energy, my hopefulness, and my vibrance was coming back. I felt as if I'd been given a new lease on life.
I'm at the end of my third month of treatment now, and feeling better than ever. I'm now down to taking only three methotrexate, and wouldn't be surprised if I am able to stop taking it entirely over the next few months. I haven't had a day in the last month that I couldn't use my elbows and I have had no inflamed joints since starting the treatment. My days of getting shots to correct inflammation are over.
I have been so impressed with Steve's wisdom and his healing ability that I've even decided to become an acupuncturist myself.I have been given a gift that's value can not be summed up with words. But for those of you who understand what living with rheumatoid arthritis means, perhaps this will do: The pain is gone.
Steve has given me back my life, both physically and spiritually, I can't truly repay that gift, but perhaps one day I can pay it forward and help others in the same way.
Thanks,
Amanda
I was looking for an acupuncturist with an extensive knowledge in Sacramento Area and I came across Steve on the net search. Prior to beginning my acupuncture with Steve, I had a few sessions with another practitioner in LA who was fairly new to his practice. While those sessions were very helpful, I am very glad that I stumbled upon Steve.
I primarily came for my anxiety/stress issues which stemmed from having a strict upbringing as well as a number of emotional issues such as going through war, losing a loved one, and moving from place to place, which, at times, can be very emotionally draining.
Prior to sessions with Steve, I already had Tai Chi as well as Yoga at my disposal, but I thought that adding another healing tool could not hurt. Being fairly new to Tai Chi and the workings of internal energy and breathing, I had a general understanding of how the acupuncture might work. The principles of Tai Chi are such that any tightness in the muscles leads to unnecessary strain and imbalance in the body, and that in order to regain health, it is imperative to rid oneself of that strain. Unfortunately, that strain accumulates in the body as we experience stressful events. It is ok to experience stressful events, as long as we are aware that the tightness in the muscles must be released. Even the smallest muscle tightness can throw the whole body out of balance.
In my case, having the needle inserted into a muscle that's tight, has done wonders. I'm sure that it's a whole lot more thoughtful than this if you read Chinese literature, but I am very scientific person and I think that there's a scientific value to acupuncture. My problem turned out to be a very tense lower back which prevented me from deep breathing. Even though I did Tai Chi and Yoga which are great tools for anyone, my problem turned out to be an inability to consciously release tightness of certain deeper muscles in my lower back. Acupuncture did just that, primarily because I did not have to do anything consciously.
It can take some time for it to start working as we have accumulated tightness in our bodies for a lifetime. Muscles will not relax all at once, but rather over time with some patience. I always make sure that I'm good to myself and that if any emotions surface after an acupuncture session, I have to fully let them be and accept them. Any resistance will just further constrict the muscles. I hope that my review can be helpful to some who have had a very stressful life.
Jadran
At the suggestion of my wife (who has no experience with acupuncture), I decided to try acupuncture. For over a year, I had been suffering with severe diarrhea, nausea, lack of appetite, weight loss, and a complete lack of energy. I've been seen by several G.I. specialists, had a myriad of tests, and was given all sorts of medications to help the symptoms. But, no diagnosis, my insurance paying out more than $200,000 in hospital stays, referals to U.C. Davis and UCSF. So, although I was a bit reluctant and a bit skeptical, I decided to make an appointment with Steve. I am still in shock how quickly Steve was able to "fix" me. After the first visit, I felt better. But the symptoms came back after the third day. But after the second treatment a week later, I felt great! I still go to Steve (it has been about 4 weeks now), because I just want to make sure I'm completely cured. Now my wife has an appointment to take care of her headaches.
I also had some stiffness and soreness in my shoulder, and thought I might as well see if Steve could do something for that. It too improved after the first visit, and since the second visit, it has felt great. I am now an absolute believer in acupuncture, and especially a believer in Steve.
–Bob W.
I found Steve on the Internet. I had a recommendation for another acupuncturist but I had a strong feeling about going to Steve's clinic. I was impressed by his training and long time in service. It's been a great choice.
I decided to come in and have a few treatments for a diagnosis a Dr had given me. I didn't know what to expect with a few sessions lined up but I've since fallen in love with acupuncture! I've been amazed at how much energy moves through your body with these treatments. It has calmed me down inside and helped me get out of my own way for my body to heal and my mind to open up to new information. It's been spiritual as well as a body healing.
Steve listens to you needs and is very good at what he is doing. This will give anyone comfort when they go there.
Love it!
Susan G.
Steve Phillips has applied acupuncture on me many times for my knee arthritis, hay fever, and other health issues. He has helped me more than the other acupuncturists that I have been to.
He is kind and also uses TLC to work on his patients.
I enjoy my visits and we joke sometimes. I highly recommend him.
Kaye
I was sick and tired of being sick and tired.
The interesting thing about acupuncture is that you don't necessarily have to believe in it. Sure it always helps if you truly believe, but for me, I had no strong feelings about it one way or another. When I found Steve Phillips, I was at the point where I figured I'll give this a try since conventional Western medicine and even naturopathic, holistic, and integrative medicine had not helped me much. I was discouraged, burned out and weary from searching for solutions to my health challenges.
All the king's horses and all the king's men couldn't put me back together again.
After spending what I'll just call “an embarrassing amount of $$” on two naturopaths in Mid-Town Sacramento as well as two other practitioners in the Bay Area, I somehow stumbled upon Steve's website one day while doing some research on the Internet. I sent him an e-mail to set up an appointment. I hoped this new approach would help but I wasn't going to get my hopes up anymore. That was even too much trouble. Well, this “on the fence” believer was shocked when after about five treatments, my health changed dramatically for the better. Wow! This really works! Steve was able to quickly focus in on the problems, put together a treatment plan and do what all these other doctors and naturopaths had not been able to do --- put me back together again.
My main issues were fatigue, malaise, digestive problems, Candida, thyroid. No wonder nobody could help me as that's quite a list. But you see, that's the wonderful thing about acupuncture. It's all about stimulating the correct energy points just enough (I think Steve calls these Meridian Points) throughout the body and thereby bringing about balance and harmony to the entire system.
I have my life back!
Steve recommended treating the Candida with anti-fungals/Chinese herbs but everything else he treated with acupuncture. I'm not the same tired person I was the first day I walked into the clinic. Today I have more energy and just a greater sense of well being overall. My digestion has improved and continues to get better. A few tiny needles vs. a ton of overpriced “natural” supplements. Who knew. Hey, life is good again!
Steve Phillips
During my long journey to take control of my health, I've met many health practitioners, but I can honestly say that I've never met anyone who is so passionate about his work and has such a genuine compassion for his patients. I feel so safe and comfortable talking with Steve because he really listens to my concerns and never passes judgment. He is extremely intelligent, intuitive and gifted at his life work. He is open-minded, supportive, professional and willing to go that extra mile if needed. I call him the Magic Man with the magic hands. He knows exactly where and how to place each needle to make me feel better and bring about the healing that I need.
I believe in acupuncture and I believe that I have finally found a therapist who cares about my health and well being. Thank you, Steve. I appreciate you so very much!
Susan
Sacramento, CA
Several years back, I came home after having been out with friends to a "foreign food" restaurant I had never tried before, and that evening I got sleep, and fell asleep on my living room floor.
I didn't wake up. I never made it in to work, and I never missed as I had the keys. My boss and one of her friends pounded on my door until I awoke, groggy and foggy, sick. They took me to Kaiser where I was tested for Spinal Meningitis, but had negative results. I was terribly dehydrated so they put four bags of saline in me. As the Kaiser crew failed to find the problem, they advised I take Tylenol and go home. I did and kept getting sicker, fever at 104. Also, I had no appetite and could not hold down food.
So my boss and friend took me to see Steve Phillips: He looked at my tongue, eyes, skin, asked me if I had eaten any place new, I said "yes", and as I recall, he said, "I think you have Yang Ming fever"...ok. He did some acupuncture on me, mixed up some awful tasting concoction of roots or whatever, which I drank, and lay there for about 2 hours.
Over the third hour my fever came down, I got hungry and could speak coherently again. In a few days I was back on my feet. I truly believe Steve Phillips save my life, and Kaiser, was just a bit off course on this one.
Thanks Steve! Best wishes and prosperity!
Dave Lynch
Owner
Guitar Workshop
Sacramento, CA
Since 1996
I have been using alternative medicine for at least thirty years, and am very familiar with the many different methods. At different times during the last several years, I have seen Steve for digestive problems, neck pain, breathing problems, and stress. The results for all of those conditions have been outstanding. The soreness in my neck kept me awake at night and was almost unbearable. After one acupuncture treatment, not only was my neck pain completely gone, but as a side benefit of that particular treatment, I was in a state of complete bliss! The difference was truly dramatic. My breathing problems (shortness of breath from a hiatal hernia) were relieved after several treatments. I am thankful to have found his office, and would consider him to be my first option for treatment. As an alternative practitioner, Steve is the best. I would highly recommend him to anyone considering acupuncture or herbal medicine, for his peaceful manner, his professionalism, and his consistent results.
Peace and prosperity,
Judy
Dear Steve,
I would like to thank you for all of your wonderful knowledge and expertise in your practice of acupuncture over these years. As you know I came to you with a debilitating back injury. The treatments you gave to me cured it completely to this day. I have followed your advice with the Chinese Herbs also and they have proven to be of great help with the other minor ailments I have and you are also helping me overcome these also with acupuncture. I am a true believer and tell my friends and acquaintances about your practice. I like the approach you have of having a periodic tune up over time to stay healthy. This has been of a great help also.
Also I have appreciated our friendship over the years and your interest and help of me staying healthy.
I wish you the best in your practice as you are a true healer.
Sincerely, Keary B.
I have undergone Western medical treatments for over 20 years for asthma, food and seasonal allergies. These treatments included corticosteroid inhalers, allergy injections, nasal sprays and oral medications. Normally I experienced several sinus and bronchial infections each year which were treated with many antibiotic medications. I also suffered from irregular heart rhythm on a frequent basis.
Since beginning acupuncture treatments 6 months ago, I have begun to experience much improved health. I no longer require the use of any asthma or allergy medications, and the irregular heart rhythm episodes have dramatically diminished. My energy level and skin tone have noticeably changed for the better. After not feeling well for so many years, I am really appreciating the overall sense of well being I now enjoy.
The funny thing is that I only tried acupuncture to keep a friend company who was going to have treatment for the first time. I thought it would be good encouragement and support for him. Little did I know what a life-changing experience it held for me in restoring me to better health. M.B., Female, age 55-60
Through my sessions of acupuncture with Steve Phillips, I have experienced health benefits beyond my expectation. Having never experienced acupuncture for myself, and yet hearing what benefits others had received, I decided to give acupuncture a try. When I consulted Steve Phillips for treatments, I was experiencing difficulty with sleep, with waking up feeling tired and lethargic, with puffy eye areas, worsening menstrual cycle symptoms, and a general feeling of malaise. I had tried over the counter and prescription medications for help with these areas, but my symptoms were not resolving, they were getting worse. I changed my diet to mostly vegetarian, exercised, and sought to decrease stress in my daily life, and yet, I still wasn't really "up to par". I increased exercise, only to find that I still continued with my symptoms, and in fact, stopped the exercise all together because my energy levels declined to an all time low. It was at this time that I met Steve Phillips and began to participate in acupuncture therapy for a period of a few weeks. Since that time I have had the first PMS free cycle I have had in 20 years, my eyes are not puffy, the malaise is mostly gone, I am exercising again.
Throughout the course of my treatment with herbal supplements and acupuncture treatments from Steve Phillips, I have been impressed with his consistent and calm nature and with his thorough approach in assisting others through his practice. I feel that Steve has helped me to move into a recovery that is a "milestone" experience for my health. Steve's experience and expertise made all the difference. I also brought my daughter to Steve's clinic for help with her cigarette smoking addiction. She has stopped smoking, and has never said one word about missing the cigarettes. I am thankful to know that in this busy world, that there are still practitioners and health advocates who really make a difference, in the lives of people like me, who just want to know better health and to feel well.
Thanks to you for reading my testimonial, I hope that it may encourage you today, and that if you the reader may benefit from acupuncture treatments, I hope that you find a practitioner with excellence such as I did, someone who can assist you into your better health. Thanks also to Steve Phillips, for a job well done. I feel very comfortable recommending him to my close friends, and to my family.
K. Summers, RN, age 39
Sacramento, California
June 2007
It is with pleasure that I am writing this testimonial regarding Steve Phillips. I have known him for several years and have come to respect him greatly.
He has done wonders for my back that had been injured years ago in a car accident. He has also helped my osteoarthritis. Steve has proven to be good at everything he tackles.
I can honestly say that Steve is the best acupuncturist I have ever met. Being a nutritionist and having been all over the world, I have come in contact with many in this field. His great knowledge has come from studying abroad in other countries, including China.
Steve is well versed in bodily ailments as well as supplements and other herbal solutions.
For anyone seeking help in the field of acupuncture and herbal medicine, Steve would be the number one choice.
Sincerely, Lois W., age 91
I am a 53 year old woman who trains horses for a living and has a martial arts filled past. In other words, I am a gold mine of old and current injuries, particularly my ankle, shoulders and lower back.
Steve Phillips with his athletic savvy and acupuncture talents has kept me in the best possible condition I need to not only work, but to enjoy life to its fullest. My immune system is better than it's been in years as well as my general health and energy level. His practice combines a kind concern with a no nonsense view towards health care that is quite refreshing. I certainly recommend it strongly.
Sincerely,
Teresa T.
There are two people in my life that are extremely important to me. I often tell my nine doctors that I will give them all up before I give up my Acupuncturist, Steve Phillips, and my Bowen Therapist, Christine Jones. I have been seeing Steve for about three years and Christine for over ten years. I had open heart surgery last July 12th, 2006 and was able to endure the post-operative chest pain because of Steve's expert care. I have had over 19 surgeries in my life span of 66. Being a high maintenance client, I usually look like a pin cushion while Steve is working on all my dysfunctional body parts. Acupuncture has significantly improved my sciatic pain and neck pain. I come out of treatment feeling like a new person and have a big smile on my face. I have recommended Steve to anyone who tells me about their aches and pains. I am so relaxed that I even fall asleep during treatment. Trust me, if your fear of needles has kept you from seeking treatment, don't hesitate another day and call Steve. Be kind to yourself. Steve will help you with all your insurance questions and get you on the road to feeling better.
I have been on dialysis for three years waiting for a kidney transplant. I have dialysis three times per week. After two months of acupuncture the length of my dialysis sessions were reduced from three hours to two. Also, my KT/V has gone way up, which means my kidneys are doing a better job of cleaning my blood of toxins. My memory has also improved. My faith has kept me strong and Steve Phillips has enabled me to look at each day as a blessing. My husband, Jim, recently became a patient of Steve's for his serious neck problems and has obtained significant relief from pain. In the July-August issue of ARTHRITIS TODAY the article says that acupuncture "helps regulate the nervous system which can stimulate the release of the body's natural pain-fighting endorphins." Being treated by Steve on a regular basis has enabled me to stay positive and endure whatever life throws my way.
Sandi K.
I first saw Steve Phillips for acupuncture treatments in 2004. I was experiencing headaches and nausea from subdural hematomas. The sessions helped to lessen these symptoms. Over the past few years I have undergone acupuncture treatments for a variety of conditions such as anxiety, pain in my knees, my shoulder and a sinus condition. All of these sessions have given positive results. I presently continue with the acupuncture sessions to maintain good health and a sense of well-being.
K.A., Female age 55-60
Steve Phillips is, hands down, the best acupuncturist that I have ever worked with. I come to him when I am injured or out of balance, and I have referred several clients to him, as he is very knowledgeable when it comes to treating sports-related injuries.
Sam Scholtes, CSCS
(Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach)
LIFE CHANGING!
No more drugs! My health has improved incredibly since having acupuncture by Steve Phillips.
Many years ago when living in Bangkok, Thailand, my ankle was bothering me terribly, and my father suggested I try his acupuncturist at a local clinic. The clinic was very popular; I was instructed to lie down on a bed—one of about a dozen, all lined up in a row, and the needles were inserted. I had expected a quiet, peaceful experience, but this being Bangkok, it was chaos! It seemed all the beds were located in what appeared to be almost a hallway, and hundreds of people came and went, there was blaring music, and the chatter of all those folks nearby. Unfortunately, the treatments weren't successful, so I didn't emerge with a positive attitude towards acupuncture.
Thirty years later, I found myself suffering from migraine headaches that nearly stopped my ability to get up in the morning and go to work—at about 3 a.m. practically every morning, the pain would start, and I would gulp down more than the prescribed number of pills. A dear friend recommended my going to Steve Phillips, and in spite of my recollection of acupuncture in Bangkok, I was willing to try anything and everything to relieve my painful mornings.
In about a month after starting treatments, I was no longer a prisoner of 3 o'clock in the morning! The setting is delightful—a spacious, private treatment room with soothing music. Nearly a year has passed since starting to visit Steve, and my life has changed incredibly! It is now an unusual event to have a migraine—due entirely to my regular visits to Steve. As you can imagine, I am deeply grateful to Steve for enabling me to greet each morning with enthusiasm!
—Lynn S.
Steve Phillips has been treating me for around two years assisting me to cope with several chronic medical issues of mine, which include chronic low back pain, a rotator cuff problem in my shoulder, and anxiety. I can say without any doubt that Steve is very professional and has a deep concern for his patients. Prior to each session, Steve is sure to evaluate me and makes sure to address any issues that are currently hindering me. He is then able to adjust my treatment so that I'm able to gain the maximum benefit from the session. Steve has always clearly explained his recommended treatment with me and made sure that I was comfortable with his suggestion before proceeding.
Through the past two years with regular acupuncture treatments I have found that most of my medical issues are much easier to manage. The back and shoulder pain is much improved. In addition, each session has allowed me the time to grow through the solitude and quiet music which allows me to easily fall into a meditative state and focus on my body and spirit. This greatly helps my anxiety.
I would highly recommend to someone who is having difficulty maintaining any medical issue to sincerely consider Steve Phillips Acupuncture Clinic. It truly is an incredible alternative method of treatment to utilize in conjunction with your current medical treatments.
—Todd M.
Acupuncture has helped me immensely with ongoing chronic health issues. The treatments provide me with significant relief from arthritis by improving mobility and joint stiffness. I have also experienced relief from sinus discomfort. Acupuncture, with it's gentle and natural approach, gives me a peaceful sense of well-being.
I recommend that people give acupuncture treatments a try and see for themselves the benefits.
Geri M.
I started seeing Steve Phillips about ten years ago at which time he treated me for various symptoms including general well-being. As a result of the general well-being treatment and some more specific treatment for allergies, I no longer take Allegra and no longer have any seasonal allergies.
Paul S.
Steve,
I want to let you know how thoughtful and effective your treatments are. You always tell me just what I need to hear to move forward and your needles are amazing the way they move the energy to where the healing can take place.
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am blessed to have you in my Life.
Savitri
I have been seeing Steve Phillips for Acupuncture since he moved to this area in 1991. His treatments always help me feel more balanced and energized. Steve has helped me at times after various injuries and I always feel better after his treatments. I would recommend him to anyone.
James Mally, N.D.
I have been going to Steve Phillips for several years. I am 57 and have found relief for various injuries, including "tennis elbow" and a too-stretched glute muscle.
He has also treated me for allergies, sinus problems, bladder infections and premenstrual symptoms.
Once a month "energy balancing" treatments have helped keep me very healthy for the last few years.
When I was younger and one of my three children experienced continual ear and sinus infections, I grew tired and concerned about all the antibiotics he was consuming. I took him to Dr. Phillips when he was three or four years old. After a year of treatment he has had, to date, no problems. His immune system is very strong and at 18 years of age, he is very healthy.
I cannot recommend Steve Phillips more highly.
I also want to thank him for informing me of acupuncture for age-related problems of the face. It took at least five treatments before I began to notice improvement. But there it was—especially in the texture, the brown lines, and the sagginess of my skin. I had a lapse of treatment for a few months, but my skin seemed to stay firm. I have begun sessions again with Steve for continued improvement.
Diane A.
My name is Dean Myers and I have been receiving acupuncture treatments from Steve for close to 14 years. When it comes to health, Steve is very knowledgeable. I can attest that his acupuncture treatments are very effective for a wide variety of ailments.
Before my first visit, I thought the needles would hurt or be painful. I am happy to say that this was a misconception. Steve inserts the needles painlessly, and afterwards, I lay quiet for about 30 minutes, enjoying soft music. During this time I just relax or practice meditation and prayer. A side benefit of each treatment is being energized and feeling improved self-esteem.
I have had treatments for pulled hamstring and calf muscles, a torn ACL knee injury, allergies and respiratory ailments in general. These treatments relaxed these injuries and promoted excelled healing. After each visit, I experienced reduced pain, and greater mobility. From my sessions for allergy, my symptoms have been reduced, and I remain less affected by them, even living in Sacramento!
Thank You Steve
Steve has been our family's acupuncturist for more than 15 years, treating me, my mother and father, and two grandmothers over the years. He is a gifted healer, and approaches us with kindness and a gentle touch. He also has a great sense of humor. I always look forward to our appointments.
E. B.
Sacramento, CA
Steve Phillips has been my acupuncturist since he started his practice in Sacramento. He can whisk away fibroid tumors or keep a lid on hay fever. Any hurtful illness or injury deserves a visit to Steve. He helped me keep my mother-in-law balanced for three years until her death at 98 years. Steve treated her in her nursing home at the end. He also cared for my mother when she was ninety and staying with me (cleared up some new varicose veins).
Alice B.
I appreciate Steve's professional expertise as well as his interesting personality. I feel comfortable in his office and am glad for the help he gives me.
Sunny, R.N.
With gratitude to Steve Phillips, I would like to share with you my journey back to good health.
I began acupuncture treatments with Steve Phillips three months after having pneumonia. I had been on four courses of antibiotics, and was ready to try an alternative to Western medicine. My chest still felt heavy and tight, I had a lingering cough, and I just didn't feel well.
After starting acupuncture treatments, what I noticed first was that my chest and sinuses didn't feel quite as tight. As importantly, I felt an underlying calmness that I hadn't felt before. Over the next three months, my symptoms subsided and, gradually, I felt healthier. Rather than merely treating the symptoms, however, I felt as if I were getting better from the inside out.
Now I can truly say that I feel I have regained my sense of physical and psychological well-being. It's not to say that I don't feel down or catch a cold once in awhile. It's just that I bounce back faster. I feel like myself again…healthy, peaceful and capable of healing myself.
L.A.
