Fifteen years ago, when my family doctor could not answer my questions about menopause, a friend recommended Dr. Lan. I went to my first appointment hoping acupuncture would improve my sense of well being. I was not disappointed, but amazed to find so much more.
Before the actual treatment, Dr. Lan asked me questions about several aspects of my life such as diet, exercise, work, relationships, and outlook. Then she listened. She really listened. She explained how the aspects of my life worked together and encouraged me to use the time of menopause to begin to take better care of myself. Though her suggestions were simple, the vision was empowering. I felt the stereotypes of menopausal “symptoms” fade. I was calmer. I would be in control. Every acupuncture treatment brought me closer to that goal.
Since that time, I have returned to Dr. Lan for both chronic and acute care. Conditions that pain medication would mask, but not cure. I have had several acupuncture treatments for neck and back pain caused by old injuries. A series of treatments relieved muscle spasms, improved circulation, and fostered the health of these systems in ways I can feel, but can’t explain.
Recently, I woke up with serious pain in my right foot and calf. I had no idea what had caused it. After a day or two, I could barely walk. I called Dr. Lan’s office. They made room for me in their schedule. An examination revealed muscle spasms along my right side. The moment the needles touched the first muscle, the relief began. I walked out of the office ninety percent pain free. Two follow up visits restored me completely.
Though I am not well versed in the physiology which would explain why the treatments work, my inner wisdom knows when my mind and body are being encouraged to heal themselves rather than being dulled into submission with medications. The relaxation of body rhythms restored is profound. The healing is a miracle. I would and have recommended others to this healing modality and most specifically to Dr. Lan. I’m very grateful for her thorough, kind, caring and educated approach to healing.
D.T. Seattle, WA
Dr. Lan and Dr. Cao have made such a difference in my health and well-being that my husband and I willingly fight I-5 traffic to travel from Edgewood (Tacoma area) to Seattle to see them. When I first started visiting Dr. Cao, then Dr. Lan, about sixteen years ago, they were working out of a naturopathic office in Tacoma. I had many chronic illnesses, and my life was basically at a standstill. I was unable to work, and the HMO I belonged to wanted to start removing various organs just to see if it would help. No thank you! Under the gentle, caring and effective treatment of first Dr. Cao, then Dr. Lan, I now work, play and truly enjoy life again. I consider Dr. Lan my primary care giver. What is the difference between going to her and my former doctors? She carefully listens to and really hears what I say, she asks questions, and then she takes the time to think about it. The resulting combination of nutritional and lifestyle counseling, Chinese medicine, and acupuncture treatment is effective and also gives me a feeling of being truly cared for and about.
My husband has been particularly thrilled with the acupuncture and Chinese medicine help with his recurring kidney stones, which are now rare and pass almost painlessly. He also badly injured his knee and their acupuncture treatments got him healed and back in the garden and moving pain free.
They do great work and are wonderful people. By the way, both doctors have a great sense of humor. We highly recommend both Dr. Lan and Dr. Cao. Go now! Get stuck!
A.L. Edgewood (Tacoma area), WA
Hello, I wanted to take this opportunity to sing the praises of Dr. Cao and Wedgwood Acupuncture and Botanical Medicine. Several years ago while skiing, I injured my left foot. It would heal somewhat but each season while skiing and working as a ski instructor it would start hurting again. Also I work as a nurse and spend a lot of time on my feet. Over time my hip and lower back started hurting as well. One of my fellow nurses mentioned that she had been seeing Dr. Cao and he was able to help her. I found out that Dr. Cao not only practiced acupuncture but he also used herbs as well. I was impressed that he was a professor at a local alternative medicine school, Bastyr University. I found Dr. Cao both professional and likeable. After three treatments and taking some herbal medicine I noticed an improvement in my foot and back. By the end of my course of treatment I was very pleased with the results. The office staff is both friendly and helpful. I have recommended Dr. Cao and Dr. Lan to several people; in fact my wife is seeing Dr. Lan now. Keep up the good work.
J.G. Seattle WA
After a serious arthritic setback (a locked knee that forced me to use a cane for weeks) and a visit to an orthopedic surgeon who told me to “give it time” but offered no suggestions as to how to help my healing along, I decided to go to an acupuncturist for the first time. This place was recommended by my massage therapist, whose advice I trust. When I found out it was covered by my insurance plan, I was doubly thrilled. It is a small practice, with two very well-qualified doctors. Dr. Lan’s ministrations gave me immediate relief, plus longer-lasting help. She also gave me helpful suggestions as to how much and what kind of exercise would assist my recovery. I did not use the botanical medicine side of her practice, since that would not have been covered by my insurance, but the acupuncture was handled in a way I found completely non-threatening and comfortable. She explained to me exactly what she would be doing, so any anxiety was relieved. I actually found the sessions so relaxing that I often dozed off on the table. That sense of well being stayed with me for hours afterwards, too. Acupuncture is a gentle treatment method, neither invasive nor overpowering. As such, it is subtle and not immediate in its effects, and it may take some time for full healing to come about. The practice handled all the insurance company paperwork, and my co-pays were well worth the relief treatment afforded me. I was very impressed and would definitely return or recommend her services to anyone experiencing chronic pain or stress.
R. B. Seattle. WA
I have seen Dr. Cao for various reasons after I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism two years ago. After my thyroid problem was stabilized, My husband and I have been trying to get pregnant for about a year with no success. I talked with Dr. Cao about our concern, and he suggested giving about 3 to 6 months period with acupuncture treatment for the problem of infertility. However, after two months of treatment, I am pregnant. Dr. Cao is patient and attentive with great professional knowledge in acupuncture and Chinese medicine. I have great confidence to recommend Dr. Cao to any one who is interested in alternative medicine.
M. K. Bothell, WA
I, 73 year-old , am an enigma in Seattle amateur sports scene. In addition to my successful business, I compete year round in baseball, basketball, tennis, and ice hockey. In spite of the age gap, I plays with the heart of young man. One of the secrets to my good health has been relying on Dr. Lan for over ten years. Whenever I have any sport injuries, I always go to see Dr. Lan for acupuncture help. Dr, Lan help me always get better and healthier, so I can play sports forever.
S. F. Seattle, WA
I have been seeing Dr. Cao for seven years, for both Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs. I was diagnosed with MS 16 years ago. The acupuncture definitely helps, as do the Chinese herbs, especially when I do both on a regular basis. They seem to keep me in balance, out of pain, and blessed with good energy. My visits to the Wedgwood Clinic with Doctors Cao and Lan are always a positive pleasure for mind, body and soul. I highly recommend it!
J. H. Seattle, WA
I have been bothered by Meniere’s disease for over 20 years and have tired many different forms of treatment with little success. Finally after a 7 month period of vertigo attacks everyday, a friend suggested acupuncture treatment. After 3 treatments tfrom Dr. Lan, the vertigo stopped. I had 2 years free and clear. Several family members and I continue to go to see Dr. Lan for acupuncture for various problems. We always get help. Dr. Lan has been a blessing for our family.
L.M. Seattle, WA
Some of the best advice I’ve ever received from my primary physician, was when he referred my wife and I to Dr. Hai Lan for treatment of back pain through acupuncture. The results were 100% successful and better than what any prescription drug could offer, and with absolutely no side effects. I’ve since gone to Dr. Lan for treatment of potentially career-ending injuries, and received the same results. If you are suffering from back or joint pain, you owe it to yourself to seek her treatments, whether your insurance covers it or not. It could save you a lot of discomfort and unnecessary surgery!
M.C. Seattle, WA
I have been seeing Dr. Cao since 1992. I started seeing Dr. Cao for lower back pain and knee pain. I had tried a number of other treatments with little or no success. After a month or so of acupuncture and herbals with Dr. Cao I was able to go to a maintenance schedule which allows me to be active with little or no pain in my lower back or knees. Another benefit is that I haven’t had a bad cold or flu since I have been under Dr Cao’s care. I can’t recommend Dr. Cao enough! It’s wonderful to be free of pain!
B. G. Seattle, WA