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Your Trusted Acupuncture Center in Yelm, WA
At Blue Waters Acupuncture Center, we have dedicated ourselves to integrating the time-tested principles of Chinese Medicine with modern healthcare needs. Founded by Dr. Michael E. Carruth, a physician with dual expertise in Western medicine and acupuncture, our practice bridges conventional and holistic approaches to health. With over two decades of experience, we specialize in treating chronic pain, stress-related disorders, and a wide range of conditions using acupuncture, herbal medicine, and complementary therapies. Our mission is to empower patients through individualized care, emphasizing prevention and long-term wellness.

We prioritize patient education, ensuring clients understand their treatment plans and the science behind our methods. Recognized for excellence in the field, we have been honored with the King 5 News Best of Western Washington award in the acupuncture category. Our commitment to ethical practice, transparency, and measurable outcomes has established us as a trusted leader in integrative healthcare, serving patients across Yelm and surrounding communities.
Services
Acupuncture Herbal Therapy Pain Management Stress Reduction Sports Injuries Chronic Fatigue Digestive Issues Women's Health Neurological Conditions Preventative Care
Highlights and features
  • Dr. Carruth combines expertise as an MD with specialized training in acupuncture and Oriental medicine.
  • We offer free 30-minute consultations to address patient-specific concerns.
  • Treatment for over 50 chronic and acute conditions, including pain management and stress relief.
  • Personalized care plans address root causes, not just symptoms, for lasting wellness.
  • Recognized as Seattle King 5 News 2017 Best of Western Washington acupuncture provider.
What people say
Life-changing recovery Pain relief without pills Expertise in complex cases Improved vision health Personalized care approach
Services
Acupuncture
Our acupuncture treatments use ultra-fine needles to stimulate the body's meridian system, promoting natural healing and pain relief. This ancient practice effectively addresses chronic conditions, stress, and musculoskeletal issues by restoring energy balance. Patients benefit from improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and enhanced organ function, with many experiencing measurable improvements after just a few sessions.
Herbal Therapy
Custom-blended herbal formulas target specific health concerns while supporting overall wellness. These time-tested combinations address digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances, and immune system weaknesses. Each prescription evolves with the patient's progress, ensuring optimal therapeutic effects without pharmaceutical side effects.
Pain Management
We specialize in treating complex pain conditions like fibromyalgia, sciatica, and post-surgical recovery. Our integrative approach combines acupuncture, herbal medicine, and physical therapies to address both symptoms and underlying causes. Patients report reduced reliance on pain medications and improved mobility through consistent treatment.
Stress Reduction
Our stress management programs integrate acupuncture, dietary guidance, and lifestyle counseling to combat modern stressors. Treatments target nervous system regulation, improving sleep quality and emotional resilience. Patients learn practical techniques to maintain balance between professional and personal demands.
Women's Health
Comprehensive care for menstrual irregularities, menopause symptoms, and fertility challenges. Treatments support hormonal balance through acupuncture and herbal regulation. Many patients experience reduced PMS severity, improved fertility outcomes, and smoother menopausal transitions through our specialized protocols.
Questions
What conditions can acupuncture treat?
We treat over 50 chronic and acute conditions including back pain, migraines, digestive issues, stress, and women's health concerns, following WHO guidelines.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept most major insurance plans and can verify coverage details for your specific policy.
Is acupuncture safe for needle-phobic patients?
Alternative techniques like acupressure and microcurrent therapy achieve similar benefits without needles.
How many sessions are needed?
Most patients see results within 3-6 sessions, with chronic cases requiring extended treatment plans.
Can acupuncture help post-surgical recovery?
Yes, we've successfully accelerated healing and reduced scar tissue formation in post-operative patients.
Are herbal supplements safe with medications?
Dr. Carruth personally reviews all medications to ensure safe herb-drug interactions.
Reviews (6)
Erica Brendel
Aug 16, 2020 Report
Dr. Carruth is a remarkable physician. He is gentle, a great listener and excellent explainer of my treatment. The acupuncture, herbs and Dr. Carruth's care have eased the pain; so, now I can move easily and rebuild my flexibility and strength. I highly recommend Blue Waters Acupuncture and all their wonderful staff for pain management, preventive care and general well-being. And they accept insurance too.
Nichelle
Mar 21, 2020 Report
I haven't been here in years but I have never had someone be so thorough in investigating the whole picture of my health. The teas don't taste good, but I felt that they did work. The acupuncture he did helped my chronic costochronditis and I honestly haven't felt any chest pain there since.
Zephyr Blue
Sep 17, 2019 Report
Went to See Dr. Carruth and receive my first treatment of accupunture for low back and neck pain as well as anxiety and respiratory problems. I was very skeptical at first, being the daughter of a western medical physician. I was very surprised. He spent a good 45 minutes with me on our first appointment asking questions regarding every area of my health and really listened to my answers. I felt immediate relief of pain, anxiety and less shortness of breath after my first treatment.

He also made a special chinese herbal tea mix with instructions for use that I drink every day. I didn't care for the taste at first but I like it fine now especially because it promotes a general wellbeing. I'm glad I let go of my skepticism and gave accupunture a try.
Sara/ age 84
Patient called back after her treatment later the same day to say that, " I have not gone without back pain this long in years! "When I came in my back pain was 9/10 - 10/10, now it is 0/10 - 1/10. Thank you! Thank you!"
Carol A.
I've had a flair up of scoliosis for 5 to 6 mos. but did not seek treatment until 3 mos. ago. I would definitely recommend Chinese Medicine over conventional Western Medicine. If you enjoy taking pills Western medicine is for you not me
Charles H.
Trauma (skull fracture) (after injury during a seizure) left me with back pain and sciatic pain and vertigo. I had difficulty walking unaided. I had not finished my first treatment and my back pain was gone. My sciatic pain and dizziness have diminished. I highly recommend it.