Jeff Patterson, L.Ac., L.M.T., Dipl. Ac. 618-223-9735
My Story
I am no stranger to chronic pain, depression and anxiety. For many years I have been the primary caretaker of a close family member with severe chronic back problems, depression, anxiety and am too well acquainted with the stress that goes with these conditions. I've seen first hand what it's like to wake up screaming in pain, to feel that no one understands, that no one will listen. I have too often witnessed the lack of empathy and compassion that chronic pain sufferers often encounter in the medical system.
I was a graduate student studying philosophy when I, out of an interest in eastern philosophy (and to find relief for chronic stress and dizzy spells), began studying massage and yoga. I quickly realized that touch, attention and compassion constitute powerful healing forces, which I, and most of the people in my world, were sorely missing. I left graduate school and enrolled full-time in massage school. A few years later, impressed by its efficacy, I completed a 4,200 hour apprenticeship in acupuncture and oriental medicine and became board certified. For the last 22 years, I have dedicated my practice to alleviating the pain, stress and suffering of my many patients. Now a parent of three beautiful children, I understand in ways I could never have before, the stresses and responsibilities of life--and how we need to work together to answer its challenges.
I believe that well-being and quality of life are the primary determinants of treatment, and never discount a patient because their condition is not well understood or a challenge to treat. Acupuncture and massage are tools, and my job, as I see it, is to utilize all my tools to reduce and eliminate suffering.
I am no stranger to chronic pain, depression and anxiety. For many years I have been the primary caretaker of a close family member with severe chronic back problems, depression, anxiety and am too well acquainted with the stress that goes with these conditions. I've seen first hand what it's like to wake up screaming in pain, to feel that no one understands, that no one will listen. I have too often witnessed the lack of empathy and compassion that chronic pain sufferers often encounter in the medical system.
I was a graduate student studying philosophy when I, out of an interest in eastern philosophy (and to find relief for chronic stress and dizzy spells), began studying massage and yoga. I quickly realized that touch, attention and compassion constitute powerful healing forces, which I, and most of the people in my world, were sorely missing. I left graduate school and enrolled full-time in massage school. A few years later, impressed by its efficacy, I completed a 4,200 hour apprenticeship in acupuncture and oriental medicine and became board certified. For the last 22 years, I have dedicated my practice to alleviating the pain, stress and suffering of my many patients. Now a parent of three beautiful children, I understand in ways I could never have before, the stresses and responsibilities of life--and how we need to work together to answer its challenges.
I believe that well-being and quality of life are the primary determinants of treatment, and never discount a patient because their condition is not well understood or a challenge to treat. Acupuncture and massage are tools, and my job, as I see it, is to utilize all my tools to reduce and eliminate suffering.
