Chronic pain is rarely just about one structure. It is often the result of long-standing patterns — inflammation, nervous system dysregulation, structural strain, or unresolved tissue stagnation.
At Deschutes Acupuncture, we treat pain through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine — viewing the body as an interconnected system rather than isolated parts.
WE COMMONLY SUPPORT PAITENTS IN BEND EXPERIENCING:
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica
- Spinal stenosis
- Arthritis
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Hip pain
- Knee pain
- Sports injuries
- Post-surgical recovery
- Chronic tension and overuse injuries
Whether your pain is acute or long-standing, our goal is to reduce inflammation, restore circulation, regulate the nervous system, and improve function.
This care is for individuals who:
- Have tried physical therapy, chiropractic care, or medications but still experience persistent pain
- Want a non-surgical, drug-free option for chronic pain management
- Are recovering from orthopedic injury
- Live an active Bend lifestyle and want to return to skiing, biking, running, or strength training
- Are looking for a root-cause approach rather than symptom masking
We treat adults of all ages — from athletes to those navigating age-related joint degeneration.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, most orthopedic pain is understood as a form of Qi and Blood stagnation — meaning circulation in the tissues is not flowing optimally.When circulation is impaired, tissues become tight, inflamed, and painful.
However, stagnation rarely exists in isolation. It may be influenced by:
- Underlying deficiency patterns
- Cold or damp accumulation in joints
- Postural strain
- Nervous system dysregulation
- Constitutional weakness
Your appointment includes a full diagnostic intake to determine your specific pattern. We do not use a one-size-fits-all protocol. The diagnosis guides the treatment.
Treatment may include:
- Acupuncture to increase circulation and decrease inflammation
- Electro-acupuncture to stimulate deeper tissue repair and modulate nerve signaling
- Cupping therapy to release fascial restriction
- Gua sha to mobilize stagnation and reduce tension
- Custom herbal formulas when appropriate
Every session is adjusted to how your body presents that day.
Most chronic pain conditions respond best to:
4–6 initial sessions
1–2 times per week
After this initial phase, we reassess progress and determine next steps. Many patients then transition into:
- Reduced-frequency maintenance care
- Athletic recovery sessions
- Or discharge with self-care guidance
We do not treat pain as an isolated symptom.
We assess how digestion, sleep, stress, posture, inflammation, and systemic health are influencing your musculoskeletal condition — because in TCM, everything is connected.

I have been a patient of Dr.Aleia Tipton now for roughly 3 years. She is absolutely amazing, extremely professional and knowledgeable in her profession. She has helped me so much managing my pain so I can continue to live a healthy and very active lifestyle. Thank you Aleia for all your help, you are awesome!

Dr. Aleia Tipton was fantastic. It was my first cupping and acupuncture session, and absolutely will not be my last! The intake process is so thorough and she makes you feel so cared for. I was treated for everything from body pain to nightmares, and have already had relief from both (after just one session!). Grateful to have experienced such a knowledgeable and thoughtful practitioner. Not to mention the snacks, delicious wellness tea, and beautifully decorated office! Felt like the healing of a medical treatment with the care and luxury of a spa visit. Highly recommend.

Thank you Deschutes Acupuncture, and Dakota! I came in barely able to walk with a cane, and Dakota had me walking cane-free just 90 minutes later. Subsequent treatments later, I am healed and living life. Thank you, Dakota and Deschutes Acupuncture!