Turning Point Center, LLC

EXCERPT: “There was a day when I couldn’t even pick up a comb. One of my clients is a neuro-surgeon and he said ‘You’re going to have issues with carpal tunnel and you might have to look at surgery.’ That wasn’t something I really wanted to do.

My next client said, ‘Look, I’ve got a guy. I’m going to take your right now.’ I got in the car, drove over. I didn’t know anything about acupuncture. I walked in, sat down. Tom fit me in between patients, put some needles into me. Thirty minutes later, I walked out. I could go play tennis, lift weights, and I was sold right then and there.

I went back a few days later. He explained the whole thing: The relationship of chi in the body and how it all moves. All I know is it works. I’ve highly recommended him ever since. That was about 14 years ago.”

--David Fletcher, Amadeus Salon, Eugene, OR

“After experiencing tinnitus for eight months, I had grown weary of its impact on the ‘quiet’ periods of my life when it was the most noticeable. Receiving acupuncture treatments markedly decreased my tinnitus, making it possible for me to relax more during the day and when falling asleep at night.”

–S.K., Eugene, OR

“I have suffered from tendonitis in both my arms, hands, and back for twelve years. The pain was so debilitating at times that I could not do simple acts like picking up an eating utensil without dropping it. I could not hold a pen to write. As one can see, I can pick up my pen now to write about my acupuncture experience.

Before I tried acupuncture, I tried the usual anti-inflammatory drugs. These only dulled the pain and did little, if anything, to cure the problem. The combination of stretches, strengthening of the muscles, and massage that I learned from physical therapy started my healing process, but it was not until I combined these with acupuncture that I really reaped the benefits.

I am a professional classical saxophonist. Thanks to acupuncture, I am able to continue my career. I sincerely believe that without acupuncture, my career would be over at age thirty and that I would be jobless, wandering and looking for a new career.”

–Christopher Walker, Eugene, OR

“I developed bursitis in both my shoulders from overuse due to swimming. I went to a Sports Medicine person for treatment. He used ultrasound, massage, and ice. Neither of my shoulders responded. I then went to Tom Williams for treatment. Tom said he had good luck with shoulders and he thought he could help me.

I had the first treatment and enjoyed the whole experience. When I went home my shoulders ached more that night than ever before. This was not a good sign, I thought. The next morning I woke up and the pain was gone. I now swim four days a week, pain free, and the bursitis has never returned.

Thank you.”

–Greg Zwettler, Eugene, OR

“I am on my third acupuncture treatment and have already seen a great deal of pain relief. My left upper arm nerve was injured by a [hypodermic injection] and I had been going to a physical therapist for months with no relief.

Tom Williams was recommended to me by a coworker who had gotten total relief for his shoulder problem. I am so glad that I went because the first visit I received relief and was able to sleep through the night for the first time in months.

I highly recommend acupuncture to all my family and friends and have complete confidence that I will be pain free and back to normal soon.”

–M. Goddard, Eugene, OR

“I first saw Tom Williams because I had shingles and someone suggested acupuncture as a possible remedy. The only other approach seemed to be medication for pain. Tom was personable, thorough, and clear in explaining a plan for treatment. My shingles discomfort disappeared in three treatments.

The staff at Tom’s office is welcoming and caring. The office setting is calm and peaceful, which enhances the treatment.”

–Gretchen Merten, retired, Eugene, OR

“Starting at age 20, my joints became inflamed and very painful. Ibuprofen, aspirin, and other anti-inflammatory medicines subdued the symptoms for a while, but by age 27, I could barely walk, hold a toothbrush, or drive my car. After seeing a rheumatologist, I was put on several serious prescription drugs (methotrexate, Celebrex, and prednisone, to name a few).

I took these prescription drugs for about three years. They did take down some of the inflammation, but they also caused severe exhaustion, bowel problems, irritability, and skin rashes. I began to get really sick. Four months of flu-like symptoms convinced me that the choices I had made in regards to my health were not successful. At this point, I decided to take matters into my own hands.

I changed my diet, began using essential oils, and gradually eliminated the drugs from my routine. The rashes continued to get worse. I left my job and began searching for alternatives. For three years, I looked for ways to lessen the irritation, redness, and itching caused by the rash, as well as something to break down the calcification in my wrists left by the rheumatoid arthritis. I have tried all types of creams, oils, and bio-frequency machines, as well as numerous diet changes and other types of healing therapies.

For months now, I have been receiving regular acupuncture treatment from Tom Williams L.Ac. and I have been using an exclusively certified organic skin care line, which together have made huge improvements in my condition. I am still a very health-conscious eater, use essential oils, and try other healing modalities, but I believe acupuncture has been key to the healthy life I am meant to live.”

–Holli Smith, Eugene, OR

“Tom Williams’s acupuncture treatment has aided me in managing a respiratory problem and has eliminated most of my chronic neck and back pain. This alternative to conventional medicine eliminates the need for the prescribed and over the counter drugs. I sincerely urge anyone to consult with Tom Williams for any ailments to determine if acupuncture can help your condition. It’s been great for me.”

–V. J., Eugene, OR

“As a child I had polio as well as other physical trauma. Entering the second half century of my life, aches and pains have increasingly become an everyday occurrence. About six years ago I decided to do something about the pain. Since then I have tried acupuncture along with physical therapy and chiropractic therapy.

No one therapy has been a ‘cure all.’ However, I have received the most long-term relief from acupuncture treatment. Both mobility and the quantity of pain experienced have greatly improved. I now believe it is possible to have the active life I want and not have pain dominate my daily thoughts.”

–Val Monshke, Eugene, OR

“I am fifty years old and am in very good health. Unfortunately, every spring for the last four years my neck has turned into knots. Each time I have had physical therapy for two to three months with the appointments one to two times per week, exercises, etc. Although I am not a believer in alternative medicines, I had two acupuncture treatments at the suggestion of a friend. My neck is great! That was two months ago. I’m a believer now.”

–P.T., Eugene, OR

“I am an RN who [Tom] treated with that ‘neck thing’ he does. My symptoms were intermittently numb/achy arms, inability to fully turn my neck, and an inability to lift anything heavy, especially with my right arm. After one treatment, my symptoms were 85% better and 100% better after the second treatment. I was able to turn my head completely in either direction, something I hadn’t been able to do in years. A very nice side effect was an overall sense of calmness that descended upon me and lasted nearly two weeks. I have a very stressful job and nothing seemed to bother me for a while. Very nice side effect.”

–Candy Whitney, RN, Eugene, OR

“The summer of 1997 the heater stopped working in my water bed. Since it was a very hot moment for Oregon I thought I might sleep in ‘cool’ comfort. Wrong! I woke up with a stiff neck unlike anything I’d ever experienced. I was in such pain that the thought of anyone moving my neck sent chills through me. Stiffly, not moving my head, I called Tom Williams. I drove straight down to his office, with emphasis on straight as there was no way I could turn my head.

I remember Tom put a needle in the web of hand between my thumb and my first finger and said quietly, ‘Try turning your head.’ And I did! Amazing. He rotated the needle slightly and I was able to turn my head from side to side. Wow! He then warmed my neck with a moxa treatment and suggested I get a new heater for the water bed. I was convinced.”

–Cathy Coulson, Veneta, OR

“I originally came to see Tom for some neck and back pain. After one session, I was amazed at how much relief I was able to get. I continue to see Tom on a fairly regular because I just love the feeling of calm and relaxation that I get when I am on the table. I look forward to going because I know it will be one hour that I can just be completely relaxed and free of any anxiety. I would recommend Tom Williams to anyone with chronic pain or anxiety.”

–A.R., Eugene, OR

“One of the symptoms of my menopausal journey was erratic bleeding. The condition had two forms. One was flooding which was so intense it was hard to leave home. Secondly, at times the bleeding was lighter but would not stop for over a month. After having a biopsy, trying herbs, and spending a great deal of money, I tried acupuncture. It took about three treatments to help my body balance. Since then I notice the early signs of menstrual irregularity and go in for treatment. Acupuncture has allowed me to experience this time of change with a bit of grace.”

–Maggie Donahue, LMT, Eugene, OR

“I began a series of visits for acupuncture with Tom Williams because of pain from an injury to my knees. The pain control was so effective that I was able to postpone surgery until I felt stronger. After surgery I found the acupuncture very helpful to control pain and stimulate healing. Tom is very gentle and has an excellent healing attitude. He doesn’t lecture but explains what you want to know about the healing process.”

–Maureen Hudson, Eugene, OR

“After trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant, I was prescribed Clomid (a fertlity drug). For two years my husband and I tried to get pregnant while taking Clomid without success. At that time I visited the Turning Point Center for help with an unrelated condition. During my initial visit there the fertility issue came up and Tom offered to include help with that in my overall treatment plan. One month later I was pregnant and am now five months along.

In my professional work as a massage therapist I’ve heard many other success stories from clients about acupuncture. I am a firm believer in acupuncture and would recommend it to anyone seeking better health.”

–Caitlin Richardson, LMT, Eugene, OR

“I came to the Turning Point Center because my partner and I were told that due to age and my high FSH levels, we had very little chance of conceiving a child. As part of our efforts to increase our fertility I received several months of regular acupuncture treatments from Tom to help improve my overall ovarian function. Not only did the needles not hurt, I found each session to be completely relaxing during what was a fairly stressful time. I believe that my work with the Turning Point Center and fertility doctor finally created the right environment for becoming pregnant and we are grateful to be expecting a little girl in 6 weeks. I personally believe that acupuncture was a tremendous help and one of the main reasons we are pregnant.”

–Kelly Darnell, Eugene, OR

“I had always wanted to try acupuncture for my chronic neck/back/hip pain developed over the years from several rear-end collisions, providing care to my disabled daughter, and lifting her very heavy wheelchair.

Over the years I have been treated by physical therapists, chiropractors, and back pain specialists and been prescribed muscle relaxants and/or prescription drugs for pain. Ben Gay and his cousins have a special place in my bathroom too. All of those things have helped for a while but acupuncture has reduced my symptoms better than any other treatments. Plus I sleep better and don’t require prescription sleeping aids anymore–what a great ‘two-for-one’ deal!

Acupuncture is an amazing natural art for healing and I am blessed to have Tom and Janeen share their gifts in tuning up this always grateful ol’ body of mine!”

–JM, Domestic Engineer, Eugene, OR

“Standing on the summit cornice of 14,162 ft Mt. Shasta in northern California, I could not believe that less than two months earlier I could not muster the strength to pull myself out of bed. Cutting icy turns down the north side to our high camp, and idea of pain was history, for it could have meant disaster.

Upon returning home I made a point of seeing my regular doctor to share my thoughts about the benefits of acupuncture. Following an injury which left me in great pain, of the hip and lower back variety, he had recommended a regime of pain killers and killer physical therapy. Not that physical therapy doesn’t have its place, it just wasn’t working for me. I always felt worse after my visits.

Upon a friend’s recommendation, I paid a visit to Tom Williams, a local acupuncturist. My revelation came when he pressed the ground zero pain in my hip, found a corresponding source in my leg, placed a very fine needle in my leg, returned to ground zero with a firm press and wow, what happened? A mere trickle of sensation.

After three hour-long sessions, I was back on my feet, and less than a week later packing a full load up the side of a mountain. Knowing that I may be pushing it a bit, I told myself that I would turn around any time. It didn’t happen. I’ve felt great since and never miss a chance to recommend acupuncture to friends and relatives.”

–Mike Stickling, Eugene, OR

“As far as anyone can remember, my migraines started in the first grade. They were a consistent presence through my adolescence and became especially debilitating when I began at the University and took on all the stress, transition, and poor health habits that came with it. Throughout the years I saw several doctors and neurologists. I was prescribed four different prescription migraine medications, one of which actually worked for a while but then gave way to far worse breakthrough migraines. One pill was a daily preventative medication, which failed to cause any difference in my migraine frequency or severity but heavily impaired my mental function, furthering my compromised experience. I had several migraines a week, almost all of them lasted the entire day and caused me a great amount of pain and nausea. The various doctors I saw had no new information for me and continued to pressure me to take various medications. At the risk of sounding melodramatic, I was feeling quite helpless and fearing a lifetime of suffering.

I honestly got a little teary eyed writing this. Thank you all so much, from the bottom of my heart.”

–Navit, Eugene, OR

“I am very grateful for the healing assistance I have received from Tom Williams. About nine months ago, I started having strong, debilitating headaches. They were much stronger at night; therefore, I didn’t sleep well. I had difficulty thinking clearly, had erratic mood swings, and feared they would never go away. Doing some yoga didn’t alleviate them.

Since I have been receiving acupuncture treatments twice weekly for almost six months, my headaches have decreased significantly. They are almost totally gone. After only five weeks of treatments, I was able to stop taking hydrocodone and only take ibuprofen. Currently, I sleep better and am more relaxed. I believe the acupuncture treatments, healing atmosphere of Tom’s office, and the caring treatment I received from everyone at Tom’s office have made a difference in my health.”

–C.D., Eugene, OR

“In December of 2007 I had been sick and in a great deal of pain for many months spending a good portion of my days in bed. Western Medical Professionals had been unable to give me answers to my health problems. The holidays were coming and I was afraid I would be unable to enjoy them with my husband and children. My Nurse Practitioner suggested I try Acupuncture. I called the office of Tom Williams and from the very first phone call I felt a great deal of care and concern. I started treatments twice a week and was feeling well enough by Christmas to enjoy it.

I am so very grateful to Tom, Holly and the whole staff. I was given help and concern at a time when I had no answers and no energy. They gave me quality of life and help with the pain until I was able to find answers and treatment to all of my problems.”

–Heidi (Magi) Hicks, Mary Kay Consultant, Eugene, OR

“I initially started going to The Turning Point Center in April of 2008. The reason for my visit was that I had been suffering from chronic headaches for several months for which over the counter pain relievers offered no relief. Also with those headaches, I had been suffering with chronic neck pain that I describe as feeling like I had the flu in my neck everyday. It was that body ache feeling you get with severe flu symptoms.

With the first visit I had immediate relief from both my headache and neck pain. It was absolutely amazing. I continued my visits for a series of 16 visits, 2 visits a week for 8 weeks. My results have been phenomenal! I feel fantastic. I no longer suffer from the neck pain at all, which is nothing short of a miracle as I have suffered chronic neck pain since I was a child. I am now 44 years old (young now) and finally pain free. I feel better than I have in years. I can now exercise freely several times a week and I am for the first time in my life able to stick with a work out routine. In years past, when I would exercise; the neck pain would be so severe that I would have to take weeks if not months to recover before trying to exercise again with the same results.

I am so happy that I finally took the leap and tried acupuncture – my only regret is that I did not try it sooner. It has changed my life.”

–Leona Kephart, Elmira, OR

“I got quick relief for an episode of gout.

The staff at Tom’s office is welcoming and caring. The office setting is calm and peaceful, which enhances the treatment.”

–Gretchen Merten, retired, Eugene, OR

“After struggling with the pain of fibromyalgia for the past eight years, I decided to try acupuncture. Prescribed pain relievers were giving me only limited relief and increasing medication was unwise.

When I first met with Tom Williams, I felt confident that I could be helped in a kind, professional, caring program. From the first treatment, I walked away with less pain, and went home to enjoy a night of more relaxed sleep.

Thanks, Tom Williams!”

–C.H., Eugene, OR

“I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 1981. I had major sleep problems and severe pain my neck, back, shoulders, and general flu-like symptoms. My doctor prescribed an antidepressant that controlled and reduced the pain and sleeplessness. However, through the years, I needed to increase the dosage, causing more and more side effects. This year, 2006, I started to look for some other options. My nurse practitioner recommended Tom Williams.

I have needle phobia so I was concerned about acupuncture. When I went to my appointment, I was immediately reassured by the calm, comfortable office and staff. Tom is a caring professional. I told him I was looking for a way to relieve pain and sleeplessness without drugs. I told him I was taking Pamelor (antidepressant) and Celebrex (pain medication), and I had tried many antidepressants over the years. Pamelor was the only one that worked, but I needed to keep increasing the dosage. I have tried all the new sleep medications: Lunesta, Ambien, Sonata and they all had bad side effects for me. I also shared my dread of needles.

Now, I have had several treatments with Tom. The needles did not bother me. Perhaps because I felt the value of them immediately. That was the surprise–the instant effect. And the long-term effect was being able to reduce my dosage on medications.

I feel I can recommend Tom to anyone. They have and continue to help me so much. Thank you, Tom and office staff, for all your caring service. I really appreciate it.”

–M.N., Eugene, OR

“I have had fibromyalgia most of my life, but was diagnosed in 1994 when I was at my worst and medicine didn’t work or only worked for a very short time. I had driven school buses for over 25 years steady, so body damage was taking its toll. I went for chiropractic treatment, which helped. I also tried massage therapy, and I did improve somewhat after several years.

Thank you Tom Williams for changing my life.”

–Joy Decker, Oakridge, OR

“Living with chronic pain has been a way of life for the past 20 plus years. I have seen doctor after doctor, taken drug after drug. I’ve done PT, massage, chiropractic; the list could go on and on.

Four months ago I called Turning Point. Since working with Tom and Laura my pain has gone from a daily 8/9 to a much more bearable 3/4. I started acupuncture with no expectations and now find myself hopeful that with continued treatment I can reduce my pain even more.

The entire staff is incredible–their positive, upbeat nature can’t help but make your day bright.

Much thanks to all of you!”

–P.B., Eugene, OR

“I was treated by Tom Williams for a painful rib condition caused by using a weed eater for an extended period of time. I could hardly bend over to tie my shoes.

The next day-SURPRISE-I woke up to the complete absence of pain. Not a trace! Amazing! Everything else I had tried had helped only a little, and certainly did not last. I was cured.”

–Ted J., Eugene, OR

“As you know, Tom, I have come to see you for professional services on three separate sets of occasions. My visits date back to probably the early 1990’s, although you and I have known one another for much longer. Each time I wound up at your office for help, I received exactly what I was looking for: relief from my problem. It was the same problem really, revisiting me over a period of fifteen years or so. With each episode, I doggedly pursued relief through the modalities that I practice and promote–chiropractic and homeopathy. I also wore out a few massage therapists, until finally I had to admit to myself, ‘This is clearly an energetic problem of mysterious origin, and if I were my own patient, I would have referred myself to Tom by now!’

And sure enough, each episode of severe discomfort was brought swiftly to a close within just a few treatments. (I could usually tell by the end of the first treatment with you that things were going to resolve.) At which point I would solemnly vow to myself to remember you first, should the problem recur.

So many years pass between each occurrence that I can forgive myself for forgetting your talents; the point is, you’ve been there for me every time, in a totally receptive, caring, and effective way! Your knowledge and style and service orientation all add up to a tremendous resource for this community. I count myself a very lucky guy, because I have you over all these years as both a friend and a skilled practitioner. Thanks Tom!”

–Vip S., D.C., Eugene, OR

“When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, a good friend strongly recommended acupuncture. Knowing that cancer treatment would be expensive, but feeling so strongly that this should be part of my wellness plan, she sent me money to cover several months of visits.

For the duration of my chemotherapy, about 6 months worth, I visited Tom/Turning Point twice a week. Though many days were difficult, physically, to get there, every visit was worth the effort. I suppose the only way I could truly know that acupuncture helped would be to go through chemotherapy again without the support of acupuncture. But I can say that on most occasions I went home with immediate relief from the prevailing effect of the day, be it nausea, insomnia, bone pain, or other ailments. That was reason enough for me to keep acupuncture as an adjunct treatment, but I was also encouraged by my oncologist. Not only did he feel acupuncture was worth my time, but my tests and check-ups after each chemo session showed that I was faring better than most others taking the same drugs. Many possible side effects were either nonexistent or mild. Typical side effects that I did experience, such as nerve damage, last long after chemotherapy is done. Even though I’ve cut my acupuncture visits to once a week, I feel certain that the treatments have quickened my recovery significantly. Again, this is supported by the progress seen by my oncologist.

I’m now on a 5-year drug regimen to keep cancer at bay, and new drugs mean new side effects. I will continue with acupuncture to address these. Two recent and extremely beneficial visits come to mind; one for stiff/painful neck strains and one for food cravings. After both visits, my results were immediate.

Although acupuncture is new to me, my sense is that this would be a useful treatment even for the healthy individual. Given the way in which my particular breast cancer developed, it may well have helped me avoid it completely. Regardless, one of the beauties of acupuncture is that a treatment can be specific to one ailment while at the same time benefiting overall balance and wellness. I highly recommend acupuncture.”

To your health,
–Karen Schneider, Eugene, OR

“I work for a lumber mill and my work consists of my standing in one place all day. Over the years my back has hurt and I have had chiropractor treatments which gave me temporary relief. After my first treatment with Tom Williams of acupuncture I felt great relief before even leaving his office. I have not had to go to a chiropractor since.”

–David, Veneta, OR

“I injured my back four months ago and have been to my chiropractor several times during those months. The treatment was expensive and I didn’t get much relief. So, I went to my general practitioner to see if there was something else wrong the chiropractor could not treat. She told me my back was in a spasm. She gave me some pills to take and that was that.

Silly me. Suddenly I remember you–after four months of pain. It has been almost a week since I was there at your office for acupuncture treatment. I wanted to write to tell you what I am experiencing now.

Once again, thank you!”

–Judi Greig, Bend, OR

“Two years ago I sprained the ligaments of my low back. I now have vivid empathy for folks who describe debilitating pain. The slightest movement would cause hot, stabbing pain. I used primarily chiropractic care and a series of exercises in the first year and was very careful not to re-injure myself. After about a year and a half I had recovered to about 80% of my former strength and flexibility. Still, every morning brought painful stiffness and always a feeling of weakness.

At that point, I tried acupuncture. The first treatment was dramatic. For three days, I was pain-free for the first time since the accident. The stiffness returned, but was less. The second treatment yielded the same results: about 3 clear days and then some stiffness. The third treatment had less impact and I stopped there. What I noticed was that soon after that I started waking without pain or stiffness. Then I began to feel an increase in strength. It was exhilarating to notice that my back felt as strong and flexible as it used to.”

–Maggie Donahue, LMT, Eugene, OR

“I am an active building contractor on the job lifting, climbing, hammering, etc. Over four years ago, I started having lower back and hip pain. The pain was so bad at times it was hard to sleep even a few hours a night. Walking and even sitting was also very painful. After three MRIs, many X-rays, doctor visits, chiropractic visits, etc., I was ready to start living on pain medication. I thought it was my only alternative left. At this point I was already taking eight to twelve Advils everyday, but needing more.

I had heard about acupuncture from a friend, but thought it was some way-out thing that couldn’t work on me. If all the specialists I went to couldn’t help me, how could acupuncture?

I had only ONE treatment and it was completely painless and 100% effective! I didn’t feel anything during the treatment itself and when I left your office and got into my pick-up, I could tell something was different. That night for the first time in four years, I slept all night and woke up completely out of pain. It has now been over eight months and I still have not been in pain in that area.

I am truly grateful to you, Tom, and can wholeheartedly recommend you and the procedure. I have shared my experience with my doctor, Bill Nelson. Until he examined me, he didn’t believe that it could relieve the problem for me. He kept your name for referrals and said he will be sending people to you that are in situations like I was.

Thank you again, and you may publish this testimonial for anyone that may be interested in my experience.”

–John La Rocco, Florence, OR

“Acupuncture is the only treatment that gave me immediate relief for my chronic back pain. Thank you, Tom and Turning Point Center. I had tried every other method I could find including painkiller drugs with no noticeable results. That made it even more dramatic to arise from the acupuncture treatment table after weeks of severe pain and feel 50-80% better! Several treatments virtually cured me.

I do regular stretching exercises for back and neck pain prevention and that is important. But now at the first indication of muscle strain, I call Tom. His treatments have also helped open the energy flow to relieve hay fever and seasonal asthma symptoms as well as insomnia.

My primary care physician is all for incorporating acupuncture into my health care plan. I’m really glad I gave it a try way back when! If you have questions, feel free to give me a call.”

–Graham, Eugene, OR

“As I struggled through recovery from surgery, as well as the loss of both my father and a close friend in the same week, it was difficult for me to come back to my routine of work, family, and school. It was hard to concentrate on daily tasks since I couldn’t stop thinking about how my life had taken a sudden spin. Besides which, my body had to deal with a painful recovery during my mourning process. My family counselor referred me to the Turning Point Center where I found a valuable aid to my recovery in acupuncture.

At first I was hesitant because of the needles but I soon found there was nothing to be afraid of. After my first session with Tom Williams, the ease of pain I experienced was notable. Janeen Jones has also treated me regularly. Through use of the medicinal herbs Janeen prescribed, my mind has become sharper and more focused and my thought processes clearer.

Well, I was in Eugene one day and in a lot of pain. I had been to yet another specialist to which my doctor sent me to see if he could help. He told me if he operated on me, I could have some difficulties I wouldn’t want to live with, but I could go on some strong painkillers instead. Totally disheartened and fed up with everyone pushing pain pills as a fix-all, I went to a pay phone and called you out of desperation. You happened to answer the phone and had just had a cancellation, so you could get me in that afternoon. Now there was no changing my mind. I really didn’t know what to expect and had visions of twelve inch long needles, blood, pain, etc. I was wrong!

I would definitely recommend any of my friends to try acupuncture and get well naturally without having to be attached to daily chemical pill regimes. Acupuncture is safe, natural, and it works.”

–M. A. T., Teacher, Eugene, OR

“This last year was made much brighter because of your care and concern for my well being. Initially, I looked forward to each treatment as the highlight of my day. As I recovered, I continued to look forward to my treatments, but because of your care, my days were easier to navigate and I became more able to plan and follow though with activities that are so important to me.”

–Bethel Evans, Eugene, OR

“I came to Tom Williams about a year ago after being hit from behind in my car. I had neck and lower back pain that wouldn’t go away. A year later I am free of back and neck pain except when I do something that strains them in a way it would probably strain anyone. I think T.W. did the trick.

I also want to say how professional and friendly the staff at Turning Point is and what a pleasant and convenient location they have. Great people, great place, professional all the way around, and good results.”

–S.P.R., Eugene, OR

“I came to the Turning Point Center because of injuries I sustained in a car accident. Since the accident, every activity I participated in caused more pain. I even had trouble with my basic daily routines without getting a flare-up in my TMJ and neck pain. I have been to massage therapists and chiropractors and tried diligently to get rid of pain for nearly a year before finally being referred to Tom Williams for acupuncture. After my first treatment I was able to see some improvements, and with time, I have slowly progressed to actually having times without pain. Now, I have reduced my pain and continue to see improvements after each acupuncture visit. Thank You Turning Point Center!”

–Holly Gardner, UO Student, Eugene, OR

“I’ve had chronic pain in the form of fibromyalgia [with irritable bowel syndrome] and arthritis for over ten years. I’ve tried multiple disciplines to deal with the many symptoms that go along with these conditions, from exercise and meditation to diet, supplements and pain medication. But I was never really able to find the right combination until I found Tom Williams at the Turning Point Center. I had little to lose and so much to gain. What a difference acupuncture has made in my life!

From the first visit I started to feel profoundly different, physically, mentally, and spiritually. My world just seemed to get bigger and brighter. For instance, I found that I could see more clearly from colors and light to small details. I didn’t need to wear my reading glasses as often. My glaucoma disappeared. The experience was like being able to breathe fresh air for the first time. The depression I had suffered from for seven years slowly vanished and I had no more use for antidepressants. My memory and mental clarity improved. I started feeling like living out loud for a change.

Fibromyalgia is a strange animal. It seems to go hand in hand with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), skin hypersensitivity, extreme fatigue, mental fogginess, depression, muscle and joint pain and food/chemical sensitivities. After several months my skin sensitivity went away along with the IBS. My pain levels went down considerably. I found that if I was having a flare-up I could get a treatment with Tom and get immediate relief.

The Turning Point Center has become a big part of my proactive war against fibromyalgia and arthritis. Some of the other things I have found to be essential in my “war chest” are: Green First (a supplement from Turning Point that improves my energy level), chiropractic, getting plenty of sleep and exercise, hot baths and eating a well balanced diet void of preservatives and artificial sweeteners. When I have a flare-up, I tell myself, “this too shall pass” and once again dip into my war chest.

I would not hesitate to recommend anyone to try acupuncture with Tom Williams at the Turning Point Center.”

–Sherri Palmer, Cottage Grove, OR

“I was referred by Dr. James Morris to Tom Williams to help my fibromyalgia pain. I was diagnosed in 1993 with fibromyalgia. The pain in my lower back and hip are aggravations from many falls in my life. I have some bulging disks and disk degeneration up and down my spine. I was not able to shop, work, exercise or walk long distances. I have taken pain medication, had massages, chiropractic adjustments, and physical therapy.

–Marilyn King, Teacher, Springfield, OR

“I asked my doctor if she could refer me to an acupuncturist for my advanced, tri-level osteoarthritis in my knees. She told me that a number of her patients mentioned and liked a Tom Williams.

–C.B., Eugene, OR

“The quality of care I have received is great. Even better than great. After two treatments for arthritis and pain in my lower back and nagging pain and stiffness in my neck (that has been there for over ten years), I noticed remarkable relief. Continuing treatments have made them almost nonexistent. I was also treated for hot flashes and night sweats–these are down to almost none.”

–Pam Stanton, Springfield, OR

Clinical study on acupuncture combined with moxibustion on temperature-sensitive points for treatment of Bell palsy in the acute stage.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19186716

Effect of acupuncture in a patient with 7-year-history of Bell’s palsy.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18721078

Effect of acupuncture at three acupoints of eye on Bell’s Palsy.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18678159

Randomized controlled study on reinforcing method of acupuncture for treatment of Bell’s palsy at restoration stage.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18405154

Somatosensory cortical plasticity in carpal tunnel syndrome treated by acupuncture.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16761270

Is acupuncture beneficial in depression? A meta-analysis of 8 randomized controlled trials.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18550177

Alternative treatments for depression: empirical support and relevance to women.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12143922

Acupuncture for treatment of depressive neurosis: a multi-center randomized controlled study.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18257177

Japanese-style acupuncture for endometriosis-related pelvic pain in adolescents and young women: results of a randomized sham-controlled trial.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18794019

Observation on therapeutic effect of acupuncture and moxibustion on disorders of myometrial gland.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18767582

Improvement in Fibromyalgia Symptoms With Acupuncture: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial.
http://www.mayoclinicproceedings.com/content/81/6/749.full

Acupuncture shows possible effect for tension headaches. http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/031709.htm

Acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19160193

Acupuncture in patients with tension-type headache: randomised controlled trial.
www.bmj.com – 2005

Acupuncture for chronic headache in primary care: large, pragmatic, randomised trial.
www.bmj.com – 2004

Cost effectiveness analysis of a randomised trial of acupuncture for chronic headache in primary care. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15023830