Traditional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive healthcare system that resolves acute & chronic concerns by addressing the root cause while simultaneously restoring the functional & structural integrity of the body.

Dr. Aimee Montanaro’s approach is rooted in evidence-informed research and defined by kindness, warmth, and sensitivity. Her needle technique is gentle, yet effective.

Currently accepting patients in Westport & Shelton, Connecticut.

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Dr. Aimee Montanaro
DTCM, Dipl. OM, L.Ac

Throughout her years of education, Dr. Aimee Montanaro focused on the role of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in an integrative medical model across various specializations including women’s health & reproductive medicine, orthopedic & sports medicine, pain management, psychology & emotional wellness, gastroenterology, endocrinology, cardiology, dermatology, neurology, chiropractic care, respiratory care (ear, nose, throat), and primary care. Please find a list of conditions treated by acupuncture at the bottom of this page.

Services


Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is comprised of various modalities including acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, gua sha, herbal remedies, diet & lifestyle recommendations, and movement therapy such as qi gong & tai chi. Similar to other health care models, TCM is based on differential diagnosis. However, unlike other health care models, TCM utilizes pattern differentiation. Pattern differentiation provides insight as to how to best resolve not only the chief complaint but also the underlying systemic imbalance that caused the chief complaint in the first place.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the oldest and most commonly used practices in the world. Acupuncture addresses various health conditions, and it may be utilized as either a stand-alone modality or as part of an overall integrative treatment plan. Please see the list at the bottom of this page for commonly treated health concerns.

Acupuncture consists of inserting ultra-fine, sterile, single-use disposable needles into various anatomical locations on the body, in the ear, and/or on the scalp in order to address the patient’s chief complaint and return the body to homeostasis and a pain-free state. Each needle insertion creates physiological, biochemical change on the cellular level within the body, which, in turn, impacts the nervous system, various organ systems, blood flow, metabolism, pain sensitivity, and emotional well-being.

Cupping

Cupping is the administration of heated or non-heated cups which create a partial vacuum or suction when applied to a localized area. Cupping corrects imbalances in the body’s internal bio field by removing stagnation, improving blood flow and restoring the free flow of “Qi (氣qì).” This modality is commonly used to relieve muscular tightness & tension in localized areas.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion, or moxa, is a therapeutic modality that burns the herb called Artemisia vulgaris, which is commonly called mugwort. Moxa may be burned indirectly over the skin or on top of acupuncture needles in order to warm the meridians, promote blood flow and relieve muscle & joint pain.

 

Gua Sha

Gua Sha utilizes a smooth-edged hand held tool that is rubbed or scraped along the skin in order to promote lymphatic drainage, break down adhesions, and improve blood flow and the microcirculation of soft tissue.

Diet & Lifestyle Recommendations

Diet and lifestyle choices that impact one’s overall health include not only the quality and quantity of food selection, but also one’s exercise routine, work schedule, sleep patterns, and recreational activities. One’s environment and behavior can result in epigenetic changes which in turn affects gene expression to turn genes “on” or “off.”

Chinese Herbal Formulas

Chinese herbology is utilized to re-harmonize imbalances in the body. Plants, roots, flowers, and minerals are examples of substances used in order to create a customized formula that treats the patient’s chief complaint while addressing the unique constitution of the individual. Each formula is tailored to the person’s weight, medical history, current presentation, and other detailed health information gathered during the appointment.

Movement Therapy / Qi Gong & Tai Chi

Mind/Body/Spirit practice that integrates movement with breathing techniques and the overall posture of the body in order to improve overall physical and mental health.


 

Licensing & Education


Dr. Aimee Montanaro, DTCM, Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM® ) is a nationally board certified acupuncturist and herbalist, and she is licensed in the state of Connecticut. She has achieved the designation of NCCAOM® Diplomate of Oriental Medicine, which is a mark of excellence in both Acupuncture & Chinese Herbology, and she is also certified in the Clean Needle Technique by the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine (CCAHM). Dr. Montanaro graduated summa cum laude with a Clinical Doctorate and Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the University of Bridgeport.

Dr. Aimee Montanaro graduated summa cum laude with both her Doctorate and Master’s degrees in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the University of Bridgeport in Bridgeport, Connecticut. In addition, Dr. Aimee Montanaro received her Master’s degree in Organizational Development from Antioch University in Los Angeles, California, and her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Dr. Aimee Montanaro is an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the Society for Integrative Oncology, and the Connecticut Society of Acupuncturists. She attends conferences and seminars throughout the year in order to hone her skills and to increase her depth of knowledge so that she may offer her patients the highest quality care possible.

 

What People Are Saying


I went to see Dr. Aimee Montanaro for excessive bleeding during my period and challenges with my overall discomfort , insomnia, and stress. As a first-time acupuncture patient with a fear of needles, I was nervous for my first appointment; however, I was immediately put at ease upon meeting Dr. Aimee Montanaro. She is a true healer! Her energy is just as gentle as her needle technique, and her depth of health care knowledge in regards my various issues immediately put me at ease.

She always walked me step by step through what was going on in my body and the protocol which we would employ to treat it. Since seeing her, I have addressed the excessive bleeding & no longer have sleeping issues. My overall daily stress has improved tremendously.

Dr. Aimee Montanaro really cares about her patients and gives advice and knowledge freely to allow patients to feel at ease and empowered. I can’t say enough good about her, and I am grateful to have her as my practitioner. If you have never had acupuncture and/or are on-the-fence about trying it or the other healing modalities she offers, Aimee is highly recommended!

— T.B.

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“Dr. Aimee Montanaro is amazing! I went to her for treatment of rosacea/acne, support for a thyroid condition, and overall stress management, since I struggles with these problems for years. The results were fantastic! Dr. Aimee Montanaro has a light, almost imperceptible way of inserting the needles, and her knowledge of the human body, acupuncture and herbal formulas to solve health concerns is incredible!”

— D.H.

“I went to Dr. Aimee Montanaro for help with acid reflux and constipation. By following her customized treatment protocol, both resolved. I continue with my weekly treatments since I sleep better and feel less irritable overall. Her office is meticulously clean, and the ambiance is so peaceful. What a great place to recharge from the stress of 2020!”

— M.M

After a fall, I was left with pain and limited movement in my arm, neck, shoulder, chest and back. The internal impact made deep breathing painful, and digestive problems ensued. From the first visit with Dr. Aimee Montanaro, I felt relief, especially where the pain was most acute. Subsequently, each visit proved to be effective and healing in every way, and I have since returned to my general routine of exercise. I am most thankful to Dr. Aimee Montanaro for her treatment and taking time to put me at ease.

— L.H

 

What Conditions Can Acupuncture Treat?


The WHO also recognizes acupuncture and Oriental medicine as effective for common ailments including*:

 

Respiratory Disorders

  • Sinusitis

  • Rhinitis

  • Common cold

  • Tonsillitis

  • Sore throat

  • Hay fever

  • Bronchitis

  • Bronchial asthma

  • Disorders of the Eyes

  • Acute conjunctivitis

  • Myopia in children

  • Cataracts without complications

  • Central retinitis

Musculo-Skeletal Disorders

  • Frozen shoulder

  • Tennis elbow

  • Low back pain

  • Osteoarthritis and joint pain

  • Stiff neck

  • Tendinitis

  • Carpal Tunnel

  • Bursitis

  • Sprains

  • Injuries from auto accidents

  • Neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, hip pain, knee pain, ankle pain, hand pain, foot pain

  • Sciatica

Gastro-intestinal Disorders

  • Acute and chronic gastritis

  • Hyperacidity

  • Hiccoughs & Belching

  • Acute uncomplicated duodenal ulcer

  • Chronic duodenal ulcer (pain relief)

  • Acute and chronic colitis

  • Irritable Bowel

  • Constipation

  • Diarrhea

  • Vomiting

 

Neurological Disorders

  • Headache and Migraine

  • Dizziness

  • Trigeminal neuralgia

  • Facial palsy (within 3-6 months)

  • Pareses following stroke

  • Peripheral neuropathies

  • Meniere’s disease

  • Vertigo

  • Dizziness,

  • Tremors

  • Stroke paralysis

  • Neurogenic bladder dysfunction

  • Neuropathy

  • Intercostal neuralgia

Reproductive System Disorders

  • Infertility

  • Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

  • Irregular menstrual cycle

  • No menses (Amenorrhea)

  • Heavy Bleeding (menorrhagia)

  • Menstrual cramps

  • Pain associated with endometriosis

  • Fibroids

  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

  • Menopausal symptoms

  • Morning sickness

  • Impotence

  • Symptoms related to Perimenopause & Menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats, & sleep disturbances

  • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Dermatological Conditions

  • Hives (urticaria)

  • Rashes

  • Itching

  • Acnes

  • Eczema

  • Psoriasis

Ear Disorders

  • Ringing in ears

  • Deafness

  • Earache

Urinary Disorders

  • Urinary incontinence

  • Frequent urination (AM or PM)

 

Mental-Emotional Disorders

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Stress

  • Insomnia

  • Addictions

  • Weight control

Disorders of the Mouth

  • Toothache

  • Post extraction pain

  • Gingivitis

  • Acute and chronic pharyngitis

Other Conditions

  • Insomnia

    Chronic fatigue syndrome

    Fibromyalgia

    Hypothyroidism

    Hyperthyroidism

    Autoimmune Conditions

    Side effects of chemotherapy

 

*Source: Traditional Medicine – Growing Needs and Potential, World Health Organization Policy Perspective on Medicines; #1 May 2002; World Health Organization, Geneva.

How do I find a qualified acupuncturist?

The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) ® is the organization responsible for the development and administration of the Acupuncture, Chinese Herbology, and Oriental Medicine Certification Programs. The NCCAOM recommends seeking out a practitioner who is a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)® or a Diplomate holding one or more other NCCAOM certifications through the NCCAOM®. The additional designation of licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.) is awarded by a state regulatory board. One should always confirm the practitioner has a current state license to practice with the appropriate state board. For additional information: Visit NCCAOM

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