Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the primary treatment methods used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, commonly used in conjunction with herbal medicine. According to classical Chinese medical theory, the body is made up of a very intricate system of thousands of primary and secondary channels, or meridians, which circulate energy in regular patterns through the deepest parts of the body, as well as over its surface.
What is Acupuncture
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In the West, acupuncture is most commonly associated with the treatment of pain, allergies, addictions, and infertility. However, in the hands of a well-trained acupuncturist, it has much broader applications. Depending on the condition, acupuncture can be effective as the only treatment used, or it can be used in conjunction with other forms of medical treatment.
The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of conditions, including:
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Digestive disorders: gastritis and acid reflux, spastic colon, constipation, and diarrhea.
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Respiratory disorders: sinusitis, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, and recurrent chest infections.
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Neurological and muscular disorders: headaches, facial tics, neck pain, rib neuritis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, various forms of tendinitis, low back pain, sciatica, osteoarthritis.
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Reproductive, menstrual, and urinary imbalances.
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Emotional and Mental Imbalances: chronic stress, insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
What is Cupping
Cupping is a therapy which uses sterilized cups of various sizes that are placed on specific parts of the body in order to remove toxins, increase circulation and alleviate pain. The application of the cupping is similar to a vacuum or suction effect. Cupping is commonly used for both chronic and acute pain and cold/flu type disorders.
Who You'll Work With…
Dr. Sheila Woodford, DAOM, L.Ac., DiplOM
Acupuncturist
Dr. Sheila Woodford, DAOM, L.Ac., DiplOM, is a licensed acupuncturist with a decade of clinical experience
treating a wide range of musculoskeletal and internal conditions. She focuses on pain management, injury
recovery, and nervous system regulation, blending her clinical knowledge with a patient-centered, holistic
approach.
Dr. Woodford earned her Doctorate in Acupuncture from Emperor’s College, graduating summa cum laude.
Her clinical training includes work in integrative oncology settings, community clinics, and nonprofit
healthcare organizations, where she treated patients with complex medical histories and long-standing
pain conditions. These experiences inform her grounded, patient-centered approach within an
interdisciplinary care model.
In addition to her work at Sports Academy, Dr. Woodford maintains a private practice in Calabasas, where
she works with individuals navigating women’s health concerns, cancer treatment support, and life
transitions. She emphasizes comprehensive, individualized care, drawing on both traditional acupuncture
techniques and integrative approaches to optimize recovery and wellbeing.
Outside of clinical practice, Dr. Woodford enjoys yoga, strength training, spending time in nature, and being
with her family. She believes in movement as medicine, integrating that philosophy into both her personal
life and patient care. Her practice reflects a commitment not only to treating symptoms but also to
empowering patients to cultivate resilience, restore balance, and achieve long-term wellness.