Joanne Wu, MD

I have always been a nurturer and instinctively knew that my career path would be a teacher or a doctor. In these professions, I could touch people in a positive, influential way and feel a sense of fulfillment in myself. Medicine, I discovered, would afford me the chance to be a teacher and a healer and reach a very broad audience. It gave me the opportunity to help patients stay healthy. As I worked with more patients, I discovered that medications are very effective for some issues, but not others, so I became increasingly curious about alternative treatments. I explored complementary medicine and studied for a year in OHSU’s Integrative Medicine fellowship, with a focus on acupuncture. Since acupuncture supports overall wellness and health with minimal potential side effects, I have found it very helpful for disorders that conventional medicine does not have a very good track record of treating. There is also increasing evidence-based clinical research that substantiates the effectiveness of using acupuncture with conventional medicine. Many patients find that acupuncture combined with conventional medicine helps to alleviate pain, anxiety or depression, respiratory problems, perimenopause issues, and assist with relaxation. Often, it can also improve sleep patterns and relieve nausea or discomfort during pregnancy. My acupuncture treatment appointments fill up quickly, so I also refer to several acupuncture colleagues in the area. Complementary medicine has seen an increase in insurance coverage, so it is important to verify with your insurance company that this benefit is covered. I try to emphasize maintaining overall wellness so when sickness happens, your body will have the defenses to fight it. I see many people who are concerned about maintaining a balanced lifestyle in this bustling world. Focusing on what is important and less on trying to do everything can make a big difference. Taking time to care for you is as significant as caring for the family.