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? Dr. DeFreitas is a licensed Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM) and Acupuncture Physician (AP) who provides personalized acupuncture and Oriental Medicine treatments in Fort Lauderdale. She specializes in holistic well-being approaches tailored to each patient's individual needs.
Our clinic is conveniently located at 1975 E Sunrise Blvd, Suite 801, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. We're easily accessible and offer ample parking for our patients.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice that involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and restore balance to the body's energy systems.
Dr. DeFreitas holds a Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM) degree and is a licensed Acupuncture Physician (AP) with NCCAOM certification, meeting the highest standards of professional practice in acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during acupuncture treatments. The needles used are extremely thin (much thinner than injection needles), and many people describe the sensation as a mild tingling or slight pressure.
Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points along energy pathways called meridians, helping to restore the natural flow of qi (life energy) throughout the body. From a modern medical perspective, it stimulates the nervous system and releases natural pain-relieving chemicals.
Acupuncture can effectively treat a wide range of conditions including: • Chronic pain (back, neck, joint pain) • Headaches and migraines • Stress and anxiety • Digestive issues • Sleep disorders • Allergies • Women's health issues • Fertility support • Addiction recovery • And many other health concerns
Your first visit includes a comprehensive health consultation where Dr. DeFreitas will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and health goals. She'll then create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Initial consultations typically last 60-75 minutes, while follow-up treatments usually take 45-60 minutes. This includes consultation time, needle insertion, treatment time, and post-treatment discussion.
The number of treatments varies depending on your condition, overall health, and individual response to treatment. Some patients notice improvement after just one session, while others may need several treatments. Dr. DeFreitas will discuss a treatment plan with you during your consultation.
Treatment frequency depends on your specific condition and needs. Acute conditions may require more frequent visits initially, while chronic conditions might be treated weekly or bi-weekly. Dr. DeFreitas will recommend the optimal schedule for your situation.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to acupuncture points on your arms and legs. Avoid tight-fitting clothes, and consider wearing shorts and a t-shirt or tank top.
• Eat a light meal 1-2 hours before your appointment • Avoid alcohol and caffeine on the day of treatment • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing • Arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork • Bring a list of current medications and supplements
Most patients feel relaxed and energized after treatment. Some may experience mild soreness at needle sites, slight fatigue, or emotional release. These are normal responses and typically resolve within 24-48 hours.
Acupuncture is generally very safe with minimal side effects. Occasionally, patients may experience minor bruising, slight bleeding, or temporary soreness at needle insertion sites. Serious side effects are extremely rare when performed by a licensed professional.
We maintain the highest standards of safety and hygiene: • All needles are sterile and single-use only • Proper sanitization of all equipment and surfaces • Licensed practitioner with extensive training • Clean, comfortable treatment environment • Adherence to all state and federal health regulations
Yes, acupuncture is very safe when performed by a licensed, qualified practitioner like Dr. DeFreitas. We follow strict safety protocols and use only sterile, single-use needles.
You can schedule your appointment by: • Calling us at 754-800-4826 • Emailing us at orientmedicine@gmail.com • Using our online appointment booking system on our website
Please contact our office for current hours of operation, as they may vary to accommodate patient needs.
Insurance coverage for acupuncture varies by provider and plan. We recommend contacting your insurance company to verify coverage. We can provide you with the necessary documentation for insurance reimbursement if covered.
We accept various payment methods including cash, check, and major credit cards. Payment is typically due at the time of service.
We ask for at least 24 hours' notice for appointment cancellations to avoid any cancellation fees. This allows us to offer the time slot to other patients who may need it.
Oriental Medicine is a comprehensive healthcare system that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, massage (Tui Na), and lifestyle counseling. It focuses on treating the root cause of illness rather than just symptoms.
As a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Dr. DeFreitas may recommend herbal formulas as part of your treatment plan. All herbal recommendations are carefully selected based on your individual constitution and health needs.
Yes, acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments. However, it's important to inform Dr. DeFreitas about all medications and treatments you're currently receiving.
Acupuncture can be safe and beneficial during pregnancy when performed by a qualified practitioner. Dr. DeFreitas has experience treating pregnant women and will modify treatments appropriately for your stage of pregnancy.
Yes, children can benefit from acupuncture. Pediatric acupuncture often uses gentler techniques and may include non-needle methods depending on the child's age and comfort level.
There is no upper age limit for acupuncture. Many elderly patients benefit greatly from acupuncture treatments for various age-related health concerns.
It's completely normal to feel nervous about your first acupuncture treatment. Dr. DeFreitas will take time to explain the process, answer all your questions, and ensure you're comfortable before beginning treatment. You're always in control and can ask questions at any time.
The best way to determine if acupuncture is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. DeFreitas. She'll evaluate your specific health concerns and discuss whether acupuncture would be beneficial for your situation.
You can reach us at: • Phone: 754-800-4826 • Email: orientmedicine@gmail.com • Address: 1975 E Sunrise Blvd, Suite 801, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304