Pain is a signal.
Let's find out what it's saying.
Whether it started with an injury, built up over time, or appeared without a clear reason — we take a whole-body look at what's driving it. Not just where it hurts, but why it's still there.
Chronic pain is rarely just where it hurts.
After an injury or period of sustained stress, the nervous system can become sensitized — continuing to signal danger long after the original cause is gone. This is why pain often persists even when imaging looks clear, and why temporary relief never quite becomes lasting recovery.
At Malaya, we look at the full picture — the pattern of tension, the stagnation in the tissues, the emotional and lifestyle factors that keep the cycle going — and we build treatment around that.
"If there is no free flow, there is pain. If there is free flow, there is no pain." — Chinese proverb
Conditions we commonly see and treat.
Each condition has its own pattern. Each patient has their own story. Treatment is always tailored to both.
Chronic Back & Neck Pain
Upper, mid, and low back pain from injury, posture, disc issues, or degenerative conditions. One of the most common — and most responsive — conditions we treat.
Migraines & Headaches
Tension headaches, hormonal migraines, and chronic daily headaches. Acupuncture is one of the most well-studied drug-free approaches to migraine prevention and management.
Osteoarthritis & Joint Pain
Joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain — particularly in the knees, hips, and hands. Acupuncture reduces inflammation and improves mobility without relying on medication alone.
Sports Injuries
Sprains, strains, tendinitis, and overuse injuries. Acupuncture accelerates tissue healing, reduces swelling, and gets athletes back to full function faster.
Fibromyalgia
Widespread pain, fatigue, and sensitivity that conventional medicine often struggles to address. We work with the nervous system pattern underlying fibromyalgia — not just the symptoms.
Neuropathy
Tingling, numbness, burning, and nerve pain. Acupuncture supports circulation and nerve function, offering relief where other treatments have fallen short.
Post-Surgical Recovery
Complementary care after surgery to manage pain, reduce scar tissue, support nerve recovery, and restore full function — reducing reliance on pain medications.
Bell's Palsy & Facial Pain
Facial nerve dysfunction, TMJ pain, and muscle control issues. Acupuncture has a strong clinical record in supporting recovery of facial nerve function.
The science behind acupuncture for pain.
Acupuncture works on multiple levels in pain treatment. It stimulates the release of endogenous opioids and serotonin, downregulates inflammatory pathways, and modulates how the central nervous system processes pain signals.
In Chinese medicine, we identify which channel is affected, where stagnation or cold has settled, and whether there's an underlying deficiency preventing full recovery. This precision is what makes the difference between temporary relief and lasting change.
Most patients notice shifts within the first few sessions — improved sleep, reduced intensity, more good days than bad. The goal is always full resolution, not management.
How we approach pain at Malaya.
Every patient gets a thorough assessment and a treatment plan built around their specific pattern — not a generic pain protocol.
I understand pain personally.
Growing up, I chronically suffered from headaches. I know what it's like to carry pain quietly and just try to get through the day.
Over the years, I've tried to take care of my body the best I can. I've trained in martial arts consistently for over a decade, run a couple of marathons, and spend as much time as I can on the trail. I'm not perfect at it — but I've learned a lot about what the body needs to keep going.
That personal experience — both the struggle and the recovery — is something I carry into every treatment room. Pain is humbling. I get it.
Real people. Real relief.
Reviews from Yelp
I was dealing with a lot of pain and inflammation and needed to try something different. The care I've received has made a big difference in managing my pain, inflammation, and overall nervous system regulation. I always leave feeling better — physically and mentally.
My tennis elbow was so painful I could barely lift a glass of water. Dr. Velasquez was able to target and treat the inflammation in my arm, providing me with immediate and sustained relief from the pain. With full recovery, I am now seeing him for maintenance. Highly recommended!
Dr. Emil is a skilled, compassionate and intuitive healer. If you struggle with neck pain, back pain, or any other pain or illness, he will bring you relief.
Step 1 — Your First Visit
Choose the option that fits your situation. Not sure? The free 15-min consult below will help.
Step 2 — All Follow-up Visits
Same rate for every returning patient, every visit.
Want to save — and skip the hassle of booking each time?
Due to demand, we've added prepaid packs. Lock in your sessions at a lower rate and we'll take care of the scheduling.
- ✓Consultation fee waived
- ✓Best for sports injuries, acute pain & post-surgical recovery
- ✓Ideal for headaches & migraines needing a focused treatment course
- ✓Consultation fee waived
- ✓Designed for neuropathy, fibromyalgia & long-standing pain
- ✓Sustained care for chronic back, neck & nerve conditions
Not sure which applies to you?
Book a free 15-minute phone call — we'll point you in the right direction. No commitment, no pressure.
HSA/FSA accepted · Herbs are an optional add-on, not included in any package · Questions? (510) 866-2734
You don't have to live around your pain.
Not sure where to start? Let's talk first — no commitment, no pressure. A free 15-minute phone call to see if we're the right fit.
Already ready? Go ahead and book directly.