Strengthen your Immunity with Acupuncture & Herbal Patches
Support your respiratory system this cold season with a complementary herbal patch treatment alongside your acupuncture appointment!
Say Goodbye To:
- Bronchitis & common cough
- Allergies, cold, and flu
- Asthma
- Chronic back pain
- Menstrual pain
- Poor circulation & cold hands/feet
Our Services
Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments such as Acupuncture, Acupressure, Cupping Therapy and Infrared Sauna. Our treatments are beneficial for pain, gut health, migraines, anxiety, weight loss and more.
Meet The Team
Three generations with over 60 years of combined experience and have helped thousands of patients with an array of conditions, using acupuncture, acupressure, cupping therapy and more.
Book Now
To request an appointment, either give us a call at 240-386-8608 or send us an email at info@eastwestwellnesscenter.com. We look forward to helping you!
About Us
We are dedicated to helping our patients with various natural techniques that won’t harm the body, such as acupuncture, acupressure, cupping therapy and other Chinese medicine techniques.
Our philosophy is simple: provide excellent and natural care to the every day people to better their health.
We have over 60 years of combined experience. Acupuncture is rooted deeply into our family tradition. Pictured in the gallery is grandmother Dr. Chen. She was a prestiged TCM Acupuncturist in China and has treated thousands of patients. Get help with our acupuncture in Gaithersburg MD.
Our Services
Acupuncture
The insertion of thin needles through your skin at specific points to promote healing from within.
Acupressure
Get rid of those stiff achey muscles. Physical pressure is applied to various part of the body. Our therapists find knots you didn’t even know you had.
Cupping Therapy
Wanna be the next Michael Phelps? A glass suction cup is placed on the body to draw out toxins, manage pain and promote a healthier flow of qi.
Infrared Sauna
Our full spectrum infrared saunas offer a very relaxing and detoxifying experience. Benefits include weight loss, improved circulation, and skin rejuvenation.
FREE CONSULTATION
We are a three generation Traditional Chinese Medicine practice that has been providing healthcare for over 20 years in the greater Washington DC area. We have over 60 years of combined experience and have helped thousands of patients with an array of conditions, using acupuncture, acupressure, cupping therapy and more. We are here to help you with your acupuncture in Gaithersburg, MD.
Conditions We Treat
Pain and Inflammation
- Low back pain, sciatic pain
- Neck pain, shoulder pain
- Hip pain, knee pain
- Ankle pain, plantar fasciitis
- Fibromyalgia, face pain
- Piriformis syndrome
Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendinitis
- Rotator Cuff Injuries (affects the shoulder)
- Epicondylitis (affects the elbow)
- Arthritis
Gastrointestinal Disorders
- IBS and SIBO
- Acid Reflux
- Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
- Dyspepsia/Indigestion
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Belching and Bloating
- Constipation, Diarrhea
Women's Health
- Menstrual Disorders
- Irregular Menstruation
- Painful Menstruation
- Menopause syndrome
- Urinary Incontinence
- Infertility
- Assist IVF Treatment
- Labor Induction
Respiratory Disorders
- Winter Disease Summer Treatment
- Allergy
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Cough
- Long Covid
Neurological Disorders
- Bell’s Palsy
- Stroke
- Peripheral Neuropathy
- Trigeminal Neuralgia
Acupuncture Questions
Does Acupuncture really work?
Does Acupuncture hurt?
More and more people are starting to see the natural healing benefits of Acupuncture, however we still get many questions about this ancient therapy that we will answer today!
Does Acupuncture actually work?
Yes, there is an increasing number of research that proves the natural therapies effectiveness and it is being used progressively in America in conjunction with Western medicine. Acupuncture has been proven to treat conditions ranging from depression to hypertension to induction of labor. The University of San Diego School of Medicine conducted case control studies that have a full list of conditions that Acupuncture can help with here.
However, it is important to keep in mind acupuncture should not be used as a cure all. Since acupuncture is completely natural with little to none side effects, it can be used in conjunction with any other treatment you are receiving or any current prescriptions or pain medications you’re taking. Acupuncture has actually helped our patient’s decrease their dosage of pain medications or stop their reliance all together.
However, it is important to keep in mind acupuncture should not be used as a cure all. Since acupuncture is completely natural with little to none side effects, it can be used in conjunction with any other treatment you are receiving or any current prescriptions or pain medications you’re taking. Acupuncture has actually helped our patient’s decrease their dosage of pain medications or stop their reliance all together.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
Nope! Acupuncture needles are extremely thin. Some patients are so comfortable they fall asleep during their treatments! The most pain you may feel is a dull ache at the base of the needle when inserted or a slight tingling sensation. If it is your first time getting acupuncture, you may feel light soreness following your treatment. This is normal and usually subsides the day after.
It’s also extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug free therapy, yielding no side effects and is virtually painless. Only sterile needles are used and are discarded after each use. However, it is important to use a licensed, trusted professional whom you trust. It is advised to research acupuncturists in your area and set up a meeting with your potential provider. As with any medical professional, it is important that you feel comfortable and safe in his/her presence!
It’s also extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug free therapy, yielding no side effects and is virtually painless. Only sterile needles are used and are discarded after each use. However, it is important to use a licensed, trusted professional whom you trust. It is advised to research acupuncturists in your area and set up a meeting with your potential provider. As with any medical professional, it is important that you feel comfortable and safe in his/her presence!
How many treatments will I need?
It depends from patient to patient, condition to condition. Some patients with an acute condition see a drastic improvement after the first visit while others with more chronic conditions take a few weeks or months to feel improvement. It is important to stay consistent with your treatments in order to see steady results. We usually recommend patients to come twice a week in the beginning and as your conditions start improving, decrease to once a week, to none at all. We like to compare it to exercise, the more consistent you are with treatments, the better your results will be.
Will my insurance cover for my treatment?
We accept all insurances as long as you have acupuncture benefits with your plan. Worker Compensation and Car Accident claims are also welcome. For more information on the policies we accept and how to check go here.
What Our Customers Say
Miguel Renderos
13:15 20 Mar 25
Great custumer Service, all doctors are great but I recommend Shelly the best Doctor.
Shamide Labranche, DNP CRNA
19:11 28 Feb 25
Dr. Shelley is an AMAZING provider! After taking antibiotics for 14 days, my microbiome was totally off. I had awful IBS (diarrhea and cramps) symptoms for 4 months. I was miserable and starting to get depressed. The GI doctors had no answers. Shelley took her time to listen and did a thorough assessment. After my 2nd treatment, I started to notice a difference. After 5 treatments, the type 5 bowel movements and stomach cramps have resolved. She is amazing and life changing!! I would give TEN stars if I could!!! I am FOREVER GRATEFUL!!!
Janet Young
20:03 20 Feb 25
I am very new to acupuncture and East West Wellness was recommended by one of the docs at my physical practice office. Dr. Shelly (Shen) at East West Wellness is terrific. Siatica pain was gone after 2 visits and has not returned. Everyone is very welcoming and helpful. If you are thinking of trying acupuncture I highly recommend you give this very professional site a try.
anurag babbar
01:21 17 Feb 25
Apologies for the lengthy review but I felt this one truly deserves it.Since August 2024, I have gone through several health issues - sudden loss of weight (50 lbs in 2 months), severe sudden neuropathy in feet, to name a couple. From Aug to mid-Oct, I had gone through several doctors (primary, cardio, neuro, orthopedic etc), ER visits and multiple tests - no one could diagnose the root causes of these issues. Towards mid-Oct, somehow my other issues and weight loss got stabilized with the neuropathy in feet remaining. It was so bad that I had started hating to walk even to the bathroom from the bedroom next door, and preferred to just lie down most of the times.On a Saturday afternoon in Oct, while searching for neuropathy's potential cures on my cell phone, I found out about Acupunture, and a Google search brought up the East West Wellness Center. I called and Dr. Shelly answered - she agreed to see me the same day after just an hour. When I went in, she sat me down for a consult and checked my tongue - which was weird to me, and I thought this was another mistake to come here. However, she saw lot of things wrong with me and gave my first Acupuncture therapy session. After 30 mins, I left her office just a tad bit better somehow. I was still skeptical, but went through 5 more sessions - twice a week. To my surprise, I was starting to feel better and started to walk again, even if with a limp and pain. After another 10 sessions, now my pain has subsided to about 30% of what it was and I am able to walk much better, and also get back to work and do some household chores again. I have discarded all other treatments and tests for the time being, and focusing on Acupuncture alone. Dr. Shelly, seeing the progress, has also reduced the frequency to once a week.For me, Dr. Shelly has been heaven sent, and without her actively leaning in to truly understand what is causing my health issues, and treating accordingly, I would still be on the bed. It is my good luck that on that fateful Saturday afternoon, I somehow came across her as a last resort and she has made my issues almost disappear. She also talks about her line of thoughts and rationally reasons about any issue that sees on a particular day - still checking my tongue at every visit, before deciding the locations to pin for treatment that day. As good as she herself is, Dr. Shelly has also surrounded herself by a wonderful staff - both of whom are caring, smiling and genuinely welcoming when you enter the office. They are also very flexible at accommodating any last minute schedule changes, which I had to do couple of times and rescheduling at an alternate time.It is rare to come across healthcare professionals and facility like East-West, and I am very grateful for what Dr. Shelly and her staff have done for me. I will whole heartedly recommend her clinic for whoever is looking at Acupuncture for a treatment of your specific ailment, and hope that Dr. Shelly continues to help the rest of us get and feel better.
Letty Jiang
01:32 03 Feb 25
Dr. Shelly has helped me live so much better. I am now 13 & I can finally feel free to walk outside without thinking about how my face looked. It all started when I was in 6th grade. I would feel insecure about my face because I had a bunch of pimples. I was jealous of everybody else’s face, at my school, and outside anywhere because they had healthy skin. I thought that I would never have clear skin because of this. After about a year of feeling insecure about my face, my mom started talking about how she found this place where they can treat my skin, this specific place is called East West Wellness Center. This is where my whole life became so much better, I went to East West Wellness Center one day and Dr. Shelly told me about how she had treated a lot of other people with the same conditions as me. I felt relieved because I really thought nothing could help me. In just four times treatment(acupuncture), my skin got so much better! After a couple weeks of acupuncture, my friends told me about how my skin looked so much healthier. I am now in 7th grade and I finally don’t feel insecure anymore and can walk freely without the thought of how my face looked. I wrote this review because I want to thank Dr. Shelly about how much she had helped me, and I want to help out others who has the same conditions as me.. If you do, then don’t hesitate and CONTACT EAST WEST WELLNESS CENTER, AND REACH OUT TO DR. SHELLY ASAP!!! (It will make your life so much better, trust me).
Ashley Bayton
16:44 26 Jan 25
THANK YOU DR. SHELLY!!!TLDR: If you’re really in pain, quit playing and make an appointment with Dr. Shelly.I don’t even know where to begin. When I first went to see Dr. Shelly at East West Wellness Center, I was in excruciating pain. I could barely walk, couldn’t lay down, and definitely couldn’t find any position that offered relief. It felt like my body was betraying me, and I was honestly exhausted and fearful nothing would ever be able to correct my back. I’ve visited other medical professionals (one who recommended surgery!) but NO ONE has done what Dr. Shelly was able to do.Dr. Shelly didn’t poke and prod or even set up a lengthy and expensive care plan— just got right down to business and by the end of the hour she had given me my mobility and my hope back.She worked so calmly and confidently, explaining every step with so much patience and care. She told me exactly why she was placing each needle, what she expected to happen, and how everything was connected. I don’t know about acupuncture or chi stagnation— but now I’m a believer— I’ve never experienced that level of detail and attentiveness in any medical setting before.Now, I’m not going to lie, I was hesitant about acupuncture at first—my back is so sensitive, and I was in so much pain that I winced during the entire ride to the office. But I am sooo glad I went. By the time I left the East West Wellness Center, I could move so much more easily and the pain that was a 12/10 was down to about a 4/10, then within two hours, I was down to what I would describe as “discomfort” more than “pain.” Mind you, I could barely sit or stand before Dr. Shelly. PLUS she fit me in the very next day to make sure I continued to improve, that’s the mark of a professional who is truly special.I also want to say, it’s amazing how much she could figure out about what was going on with my body just from asking me a few questions and examining my tongue. She doesn’t just treat the pain—she teaches you how to care for yourself so it doesn’t keep happening. As someone who has suffered and tried so many different treatments, I am happy to report that I feel like I’m finally learning how to take care of my body in a way I never have before.If you’re in pain, don’t wait to call Dr. Shelly. Don’t be stubborn or overly skeptical like I was. It’s wasted time and unnecessary pain! I know how it is, frustrating and exhausting. My husband and mother have been patients at the East West Wellness Center for years, and now I understand why they’ve always trusted this team and wanted me to become a patient. I cannot thank Dr. Shelly enough for what she’s done for me. After just two sessions, I went from barely able to walk to feeling like I can finally function again. Dr. Shelly is incredible. She knows her stuff. I feel so blessed to have found her— my only regret is that I didn’t listen to my family sooner!
Chia
18:31 07 Dec 24
Wendy, the talented massage therapist, I just want to say I love you. I’m sorry I still don’t know who you are since I’ve always been face down during our sessions, but you gave me the best massage I’ve ever had. Your skillful massage relieved my back pain, I feel so grateful😭
Miss Talmo
09:27 21 Oct 24
Dr. Woo(Wu?)
Alesse Gonzalez
22:06 30 Jan 24
East West Wellness Center has truly been a blessing in helping me with my on and off extremely painful Sciatica. I have dealt with this debilitating pain for many, many years. I have tried many different remedies including multiple physical therapy facilities but to no avail. I was introduced by my husband who absolutely loves Dr. Ji & staff in aiding him with both knees, multiple meniscus tears, pain and inflammation. I witnessed his improvement, the ability to move and walk with little to no pain and especially his quality of life in how acupuncture reduced his pain & inflammation. I knew then that I had to meet this amazing team and seek help for my Sciatica. I decided to give it a go and I have not looked back. Dr. Ji and Dr. David Kum have truly taken the time to prioritize my Sciatica pain and address my other medical ailments that I can honestly say that my level of pain has been reduced greatly. This team has won my confidence in managing my health that I have entrusted my daughter, family and friends to their care. Thank you to the Entire Team, Front and Back Staff at East West Wellness Center for the professionalism and excellence you provide to my entire family, friends and all of your patients!
Suly Berganza
19:22 13 Jan 24
Carrie Betts
16:23 03 Jan 24
I have been a regular here for over a year and a half. Dr. Ji helped to clear up my Bell’s palsy in two months. I have been going since to help with continued stress management.
Jin hua Pan
13:21 02 Nov 23
This is the best acupuncture clinic I had, Dr. Ji is very nice and patience, she helped my all conditions, love this place!
Jennifer Fraser
12:25 12 Aug 23
I had been grappling with a relentless cough caused by allergies for months. Despite trying various medications, the cough persisted, disrupting my work and sleep. The constant coughing left me exhausted and drained. Desperate for relief, I decided to explore alternative options and found my way to East West Wellness Center. From the moment I stepped in, I knew I was in capable hands.Under the guidance of the incredibly knowledgeable Dr. Hongji Ma, I embarked on a treatment plan that combined acupuncture, cupping, and the remarkable San Fu Herbal patch, specifically tailored to address my asthma, allergies, and respiratory issues. To my sheer amazement, after just three treatments, my stubborn cough vanished completely. No more incessant coughing throughout the day and night. I felt an incredible transformation – breathing became effortless, and I experienced a newfound vitality that had eluded me for months.I can't emphasize enough how East West Wellness Center has positively impacted my life. The entire staff radiates warmth and friendliness, creating an inviting and comforting atmosphere. The facility itself is pristine and inviting, fostering a sense of tranquility that is essential for healing. I am committed to incorporating this wellness center into my regular routine, as it has not only alleviated my physical discomfort but has also lifted my mood and enhanced my overall well-being.If you're searching for a holistic approach to health, I wholeheartedly recommend East West Wellness Center. This place is a true gem that offers a blend of expertise, compassion, and effective treatments. It's not just about addressing ailments; it's about nurturing your entire being. Trust me, the journey to better health and happiness begins here. Don't wait – take the leap and experience the transformative power of East West Wellness Center.
chris c
19:42 09 Aug 23
Amazing healing center. Would highly recommend for acupuncture. Great cupping sauna staff and acupuncture
Amanda Shepherd
22:33 30 Jul 23
Very gifted healers
Dileepa Jayasuriya
15:29 10 Nov 22
Place is excellent, take the time to evaluate you and massages are excellent
Donna W
20:27 04 Aug 22
I have had severe pain near my hip for the past several months (very sudden onset). I saw 3 Orthopedic specialists; all of whom could not identify the cause of the pain. When in doubt, hip replacement surgery - what???? A friend recommended Dr Ji at East West Wellness. I walked into the office using a cane and I walked out without it. Dr Ji gave me immediate relief. This is an ongoing process; not an overnight solution. I look forward to being pain free one day, with Dr Ji's help (and without surgery!!). The Wellness Center offers lots of treatment options, which I really appreciate. The support staff is super - friendly and professional. I highly recommend this group.
Z G
23:06 13 May 22
Kevin
17:28 11 Mar 22
Amazing place with friendly staff that helped me with my neck and shoulder pain.
Andy Liu
18:54 11 Sep 21
Professional and courteous staff in a clean and spacious environment. Most important, their electro-acu with cupping treatment worked for me. I came in for my persistent acne problem and lower back pain. Already felt sustained improvements after first couple visits. Highly recommend Dr. Hongji and massage therapist Linda.
