Aram Akopyan, MD, LAc

Dr. Aram A. Akopyan, a licensed acupuncturist in California, holds advanced degrees in computer science, information technology and TCM. He completed his clinical residency at the Sichuan Academy of TCM in China and subsequently earned his qualifications for medical doctor (MD), specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation. He serves as the clinical director for Nepal Pain Relief; and is the director of communications for the European Traditional Chinese Medicine Association (ETCMA). As chair of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force for the NCCAOM, Dr. Akopyan spearheads initiatives to incorporate artificial intelligence into acupuncture for enhanced patient care.

Previous Articles

Embracing Evolution: Merging Innovation With the Ancient Wisdom of TCM
August 1, 2025 (Vol. 26, Issue 8)
Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics in Acupuncture
May 1, 2025 (Vol. 26, Issue 5)
Trending
Billing / Fees / Insurance
The State of 21st Century Acupuncture in the U.S. (Pt. 3)
The State of 21st Century Acupuncture in the U.S.

Whether you accept it, avoid it or live somewhere in between, insurance coverage has become a defining issue for our profession. Patients increasingly expect to use their benefits, practitioners want to be compensated fairly for their time and expertise, and the system itself remains – at best – fragmented. The encouraging news is that coverage has expanded in meaningful ways. The challenging news is that reimbursement, across the board, remains inadequate.

Clasina (Sina) Leslie Smith, MS, MA, LAc, MD, Dipl. Ac., FAAMA
Chinese & Asian Medicine
Vesicle Formation After Cupping: Clinical Insights & Management Considerations
Vesicle Formation After Cupping: Clinical Insights & Management Considerations

While the formation of erythema and ecchymosis is an anticipated skin response to cupping therapy, the appearance of post-treatment vesicles remains less discussed in clinical literature. This article presents a case study of vesicle formation following cupping therapy, explores underlying pathophysiology, and offers management guidelines to support practitioners in addressing this phenomenon safely and effectively.

Roman Slavinskiy, LAc
Acupuncture Techniques
Understanding Facial Spasms and Tics
Understanding Facial Spasms and Tics

Facial movements are essential for communication, expression and function. But when these movements become involuntary, they can lead to conditions that are not only physically uncomfortable, but also socially and emotionally distressing. Today, we’re taking a closer look at three common facial motor disorders – blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm and facial tics – and how both Western medicine and TCM view and treat them.

Michelle Gellis, AP, Dipl. Ac.