Business Details
22 Years
experience
Acupuncture & Functional Medicine in La Jolla
Vital Changes Acupuncture & Nutrition Acupuncture & Nutrition has been dedicated to serving the La Jolla community since 2004. Our founder, Diane Bousquin, brings over two decades of expertise in acupuncture, functional medicine, and alternative therapies. With a background in clinical nutrition and advanced training in orthopedic acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, and cosmetic acupuncture, we offer a holistic approach to health. Our practice integrates traditional Chinese medicine with modern functional medicine techniques, including hair tissue mineral analysis and detoxification protocols. We specialize in treating chronic pain, sports injuries, and systemic imbalances through personalized treatment plans. Our commitment to patient-centered care ensures each individual receives tailored solutions for optimal wellness. The practice has earned recognition for its effectiveness in addressing complex health issues that conventional medicine often overlooks. Our approach combines precision acupuncture techniques with nutritional guidance and advanced therapies like cold laser and medi-cupping. We maintain partnerships with major insurance providers to ensure accessible care. Patient testimonials consistently highlight rapid pain relief, improved quality of life, and transformative health outcomes through our comprehensive treatment methodology.
Services
Acupuncture
Functional Medicine
Hair Tissue Analysis
Cosmetic Acupuncture
Detoxification Programs
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of specialized acupuncture and functional medicine expertise
- Our treatments combine traditional Chinese medicine with modern scientific approaches
- Personalized care plans address root causes of chronic health conditions
- We utilize advanced techniques including electro-acupuncture and cold laser therapy
- Proven track record treating complex cases with documented patient outcomes
What people say
Complete relief from sciatica
Dramatically diminished wrinkles
Effective shingles treatment
70% shoulder improvement
Peaceful healing environment
Services
Acupuncture
Traditional acupuncture combines 3,000-year-old Chinese techniques with modern electro-acupuncture for pain management and systemic healing. Our treatments address musculoskeletal pain, neurological conditions, and internal imbalances through precise needle placement. Patients experience relief from chronic conditions while improving overall wellness through regular sessions.
Functional Medicine
Functional medicine identifies underlying causes of chronic conditions through comprehensive assessments. We combine hair tissue mineral analysis with nutritional evaluations to create personalized treatment plans. This approach addresses metabolic imbalances, detoxification needs, and systemic inflammation for long-term health improvements.
Hair Tissue Analysis
Hair tissue mineral analysis detects mineral imbalances and toxic metal exposure through laboratory testing. We use these results to develop customized detoxification protocols and nutritional recommendations. This diagnostic tool helps identify hidden health issues affecting energy levels, immune function, and metabolic processes.
Cosmetic Acupuncture
Cosmetic acupuncture improves skin appearance through micro-needling techniques. This treatment stimulates collagen production and enhances facial circulation for natural rejuvenation. Patients experience reduced fine lines, improved skin texture, and diminished inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea.
Detoxification Programs
Our detoxification programs address modern environmental toxin exposure through mineral balancing and nutritional support. These protocols help eliminate heavy metals and chemical residues while restoring metabolic function. Patients report increased energy and improved organ system performance following structured detox programs.
Questions
What conditions do you treat?
We treat chronic pain, sports injuries, hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, and skin conditions using acupuncture and functional medicine approaches.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept United Healthcare, Aetna, and Cigna. Check with us to verify your specific coverage before treatment begins.
What makes your approach unique?
We combine traditional acupuncture with functional medicine testing and personalized detoxification protocols for comprehensive healing.
How many treatments are needed?
Most patients see improvement within 3 sessions, though chronic conditions may require ongoing care tailored to individual needs.
What is hair tissue analysis?
This test identifies mineral imbalances and toxic metal exposure to create targeted detoxification and nutritional plans.
Are treatments painful?
Our acupuncture sessions use ultra-thin needles with minimal discomfort. Most patients find treatments relaxing and rejuvenating.
Reviews (16)
Pamela Weber
May 24, 2022
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The BEST acupuncturist I have known! I came in with an acute trigger thumb pain and after one session my pain literally went down from a level of 8 to 4! Subsequent sessions brought the level of pain down to a 2! It was such a huge relieve and now I can continue to prep my meals without the pain in my thumb n wrist! As well as no more waking up in the middle of the night! Thank you Diane! You are my Angel!
Jeanne Cummings
Nov 11, 2021
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I ruptured by plantaris tendon and I wasn't healing very quickly. After my first visit with Diane, my plantaris tendon was noticeably recovering by the day.
Jules Adelman
Sep 07, 2021
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Diane is amazing! I got Covid after being vaccinated and the worst part was losing my taste and smell. I decided to give acupuncture a try after a few weeks of suffering and getting a negative test. After one treatment it came and went. After the second treatment I got my taste and smell completely back. It was such a huge relief. I believe her help was a big part of my healing. Can't thank her enough!
Jolie Coursin
Aug 17, 2021
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Diane is a miracle worker! I cannot praise her enough. I went to her with back issues and walked out of her office pain free on the first visit - Wow! Diane is a thoughtful, thorough, and skilled acupuncturist! I highly recommend her to anyone! Thank you, Diane! oxo
Friszell Michele
Mar 18, 2021
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I have multiple, severe shoulder issues on both sides from walking my two large dogs. My shoulder issues include tendonitis, arthritis and a labrum tear. I couldn't perform daily activities without pain and sleeping was extremely difficult. I am 65 years old and trying to treat this naturally because I don't want to have to rely on pain medication. After three acupuncture sessions with Diane my shoulders feels 70% better and I can finally sleep and perform daily activities again. I plan to have more treatments and am hoping for 90% or better relief. I have already referred Diane two clients. Diane is a trustworthy health concerned practitioner.
Hector Lui Fraticelli
Jan 08, 2021
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I am 66 years of age male who has never seen an acupuncturist. Before seeing Diane, I suffered occasionally with severe sciatica. The last time was particularly painful. I had difficulty walking and climbing while performing my job as a crane inspector and that's when I first decided to try acupuncture. After my first treatment with Diane I experienced complete relief by the next morning. She also helped me understand how to keep my gout under control through dietary changes and herbs. I will definitely refer Diane to my friends and anyone else who asks.
Linda Lenhard
Aug 12, 2020
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I have been a patient of Dianes for more than 10 years. She has helped me conquer interstitial cystitis, GERD, a recent rotatie cuff tear and other minor health issues. She is an excellent healthcare practitioner, caring and conscientious.
Jason G.
Oct 22, 2019
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I was referred to Diane after being rear ended in an auto accident, I am delighted with the treatments and progress since my first visit. Diane has a possitive attitude and is educated, practiced and well versed in her approach. The healing process I am currently going through has been slow (11 months and counting) but tremendous progress has been made. Much of that attributed to Diane at Vital Changes. It is painful physically and emotionally to feel no hope of healing after a major injury/medical condition. I finally have hope of full recovery. Will return and will recommend.
Amaris M.
Apr 06, 2019
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I was diagnosed by my primary with tendonitis in both my wrists and arms, and I have heard over the years that Acupuncture helps with a great deal of things. So after realizing my insurance covers it I began to look for somewhere to go. I came across Diane and read the reviews here on Yelp actually and they were enough to get me to call and schedule an appointment. I am so glad that I did. I've been seeing her weekly since February, and I cant believe the improvement. Diane is so caring and gentle.
She takes her time and is concerned that I am ok and comfortable at all times. I really enjoy my weekly visits with her and look forward to them. Her energy level is so peaceful and I really feel that helps in the process of healing. I highly recommend you go and see her. Even if you've never had Acupuncture, she will take care of you!
She takes her time and is concerned that I am ok and comfortable at all times. I really enjoy my weekly visits with her and look forward to them. Her energy level is so peaceful and I really feel that helps in the process of healing. I highly recommend you go and see her. Even if you've never had Acupuncture, she will take care of you!
Kate Bassil
Dec 30, 2017
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Diane is a true healer. I go to her for everything: colds, BI issues, spine misalignment, and more. She is definitely one of the best, if not the best, in this city.
Kimberly M.
Sep 17, 2017
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I feel very fortunate to have found Diane. Her realm of treatment options is beyond tiny needles. In addition, there's cupping, herbs, diet modifications, cold laser therapy, and the Graston technique to name a few. I appreciate her range of treatment options in conjunction with traditional acupuncture. Especially since I am not always a fan of needles she works with me by choosing points that will work best for my comfort level. If you are seeking alternative healing go see Diane. She is extraordinary, patient and well experienced. She truly knows her craft. Clearly I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to anyone.
Rona S.
Apr 06, 2016
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I have been going to Diane of Vital Changes regularly for TCM acupuncture, Esoteric Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs, and Cold Laser Therapy since October 2015. Diane is extremely knowledgeable and compassionate. Diane is authentic - "walks her talk" - and embodies holistic health. The first time I ever tried Esoteric Acupuncture was in October 2015 with Diane - who trained with the founder Dr. Mikio Sankey.
And I have continued doing weekly sessions of EA since then. It is a powerful alternative healing modality that has truly made a difference in helping me to stay centered and tuned into the Universe.
And I have continued doing weekly sessions of EA since then. It is a powerful alternative healing modality that has truly made a difference in helping me to stay centered and tuned into the Universe.
Michele F.
Mar 03, 2016
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I've known & been treated by Diane for many years now. Whenever I have a health issue I always consult with her for advice on treatment. She is constantly keeping up to speed on many current & future developments. She is caring & a concerned practitioner. Her treatments with laser helps my pain in my muscles and joints. I highly recommend laser treatments for healing. To great health !!!
Mandy C.
May 28, 2015
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I recommend Diane to all my friends, family, etc. She is excellent at making me feel comfortable & relaxed no matter my mood or pain level. Diane listens to my needs and complaints each time I come in and modifies treatment to help me feel better. My issues are muscle pain in my neck, shoulders, & wrist. Diane has treated my pains with acupuncture, cupping, essential oils, and the laser therapy treatments.
She is very thorough in finding the best personalized treatment. My favorite part is the laser therapy and as soon as I leave Diane's office my wrist feels like new and the other areas feel relief. I do not know where I would be without Diane! I look forward to visiting her every time!
She is very thorough in finding the best personalized treatment. My favorite part is the laser therapy and as soon as I leave Diane's office my wrist feels like new and the other areas feel relief. I do not know where I would be without Diane! I look forward to visiting her every time!
Seana W.
I enjoy a very active lifestyle. Dianes Orthopedic acupuncture treatments and the occasional kinesio taping not only get me back to peak performance quickly, they allow me to maintain and continue the activities I enjoy.
Elizabeth Owsley Alton
Diane's knowledge, research and application of services have helped my body to reduce inflammation and to speed up my recovery of my sports injuries. I am so grateful for her attention to detail and lovely table side manner.