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    • Sports Medicine & non-surgical Orthopedics
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      • Sports Acupuncture & Dry Needling
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Sports Acupuncture & Dry Needling

If you suffer a sports or musculoskeletal injury, a general acupuncture approach may not be sufficient. The acupuncturists at FoRM Health in Portland, Oregon offer athletes and lay people alike a more specialized approach.

Sports acupuncture and dry needling provide more effective, direct care for your injury by specifically helping reduce muscle and connective tissue (fascia) tension to decrease pain, increase circulation, and support healing. Sessions are tailored to the patient’s condition, and typically involve a mix of dry needling, standard acupuncture techniques, and complementary modalities (cupping, GuaSha, electric stimulation, infrared, and more).

FoRM Health acupuncturists in Portland, Oregon have experience treating high level athletes with dry needling, including professional acrobats, USA track and field runners, and even multiple Olympic medalists. You definitely don’t have to be a professional, or even call yourself an athlete, but we can help you feel like one! Call us today or schedule online to get started.

What Conditions is Dry Needling used for?

  • Muscle spasms and cramps
  • Tension or strain headaches
  • Sprains and strains
  • Low back and spinal related pain
  • Tennis elbow
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Gluteal tendinopathy
  • Shin splints

 

Schedule with FoRM’s Sports Acupuncture specialist in Portland, Oregon:

Hilary Constant, LAc

Sharon Blaney, LAc

FAQ

What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?

In a broad sense, acupuncture and dry needling are essentially the same; both techniques utilize small needles that are inserted through the skin. Beyond that, however, there is typically a difference in both the decision as to where to apply the needles and how they are used or manipulated. While some acupuncturists essentially use a style basically identical to dry needling, for many patients the experience can be quite different.

Acupuncture is based on a 2000+ year old system of Chinese philosophy which at a very basic level looks at the human body as essentially an energetic system existing in a state of fluctuating balance/imbalance. Meridians, or channels, in the body related to an organ network (similar, but not synonymous with anatomic organs) help identify sites of blockage or imbalance where needles can be inserted. Systemic imbalances, again related to the organs and the overall state of the person, are further treated with medications, herbs, food/nutrient choices etc that aim to restore the imbalance. This Chinese Medicine view is complex, needing extensive training in the philosophy to fully understand it, or at least its application from a health standpoint. Attempts to prove or understand it from a Western medical or anatomical view are difficult as basically it is like speaking two different languages or religions, i.e. intermixing French and Japanese when speaking, or trying to explain Christianity through Buddhist terms. Acupuncture applied from within its own context can be very effective for a variety of conditions, as proven both in studies and by its presence in medical care for over 2 millennia.

Dry needling, in contrast, is based on a strict Western anatomical basis. Regions of tight, constricted muscles are identified. Needles are inserted into (often) predictable sites of the muscles, usually motor or trigger points, and manipulated until a twitch in the muscles is elicited. This twitch is basically a quick contraction of the muscle. The twitch is essential; when a muscle contracts it typically then causes a reflexive relaxation of that muscle, thereby calming or re-setting the tone of the muscle.

Interestingly, and where the debate often comes in across different practitioners, is that acupuncture points often coincide or overlap with the points used in dry needling. This is of no surprise, however, and helps prove both therapies when you consider that two different viewpoints or philosophies end up with the same therapeutic site.

Does acupuncture or dry needling hurt?

Acupuncture typically does not hurt at all, other than an occasional very slight poke when a needle is inserted. Treatments are often very relaxing, and patients may experience immediate pain reduction or increasing pain relief over the course of treatments. Dry needling also has minimal if any discomfort with needle insertion. The twitch of muscles is not as much painful, as much as the often strong contractions are more involuntary and more uncomfortable. A strong twitch, however, is often a good sign, as the overly tight muscles needed an intense contraction to release. Without any contractions, dry needling is often not needed. After a dry needling session, muscles are typically sore for 12-24 hours.

Do I have to rest or limit activity after a dry needling treatment?

In general, no. Movement can actually help reduce any lingering soreness from dry needling. At the same time, it is recommended to avoid intense exercise within 24 hours of a dry needling session.

Do you only treat or see patients from Portland, Oregon?

While our office is located in SE Portland, Oregon, many of our patients travel from the greater Portland area, including: Lake Oswego, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard, Milwaukie, Happy Valley, and Oregon City, for in-office visits and procedures. We also offer virtual office visits, which allows us to provide service to anyone seeking care within Oregon, with the exception of procedures which must be performed in office.

Orthopedics

  • PRP Injections
  • MFAT Injections
  • Prolotherapy
  • Sports Acupuncture & Dry Needling
  • Chiropractic
  • Physical Therapy
  • Shockwave Therapy
  • Massage Therapy
  • MSK Ultrasound
  • Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Hydrodissection

Functional Medicine

  • IV Nutritional Therapy
  • Neurofeedback
  • Acupuncture
  • Nutrition
  • Hormone testing & Functional Labs
  • Massage Therapy

Aesthetics

  • Look Better Membership
  • PRP + PRF Skin Rejuvenation
  • PRP + PRF Hair Restoration
  • Injectables
  • Cosmetic Laser
  • Advanced Aesthetic Care
  • Clinical Skincare

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Latest News & Media

HYDRATION AND ELECTROLYTE TIPS

BE A SKIN DETECTIVE…WHAT YOUR SKIN IS TRYING TO TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR HEALTH.

NATURAL SOLUTIONS FOR THINNING HAIR

WHY I LOVE PRP FOR ANTI-AGING

Regain Your Confidence with PRF Hair Restoration at FoRM Health

We Love Our Patients

“I have loved participating in the Skin Rehab Program! I received 3 treatments per month customized to meet my skin care needs and goals.  With consistent treatments and home care, my skin is smoother, much more even skin tone (fewer dark spots and redness), firmer, and glows.  It just looks so much healthier!  I’m so happy with the results!”

–Look Better Member

“I am fairly new to acupuncture and dry needling and I cannot tell you how lucky I feel to have found THE Trusted Authority when it comes to these modalities. The experience at FoRM has been consistently amazing from beginning to end. I have not been able to stop sharing my experience and the benefits of going to see Dr. Minarik and his team with everybody that I know. They truly listen, are incredibly knowledgeable, candid and they set you up for longtime success/relief.”

–Sports Acupuncture Patient

Over the years, I have had many massages but Aric Naber is the best. He is well versed in muscular structure, intuitive as to how to address any issues and is well respected by athletes that have gone to him for either maintenance or to work through an injury. He is attentive to your concerns and trouble areas and excellent at communicating what he is addressing and why. I would highly recommend him.

–Therapeutic massage client

So thankful for (Dr.) Paul Molina, his help every week has helped keep me together as a professional athlete. Very professional and overall a great person and friend. Would definitely recommend to anyone and everyone.

–Professional Athlete

“Mary Jane is incredible. I arrive to the massage in pain and leave in a healed state, both physically and mentally. She is professional, knowledgeable and thorough. I would go daily if that were possible. Thank you Mary Jane!”

–Massage therapy patient

Dr Kai Herman and her staff are amazing!  I have been under Dr Herman’s naturopathic care for years. I fully trust Dr Herman with my medical needs and when I heard she was doing PRP facials, I knew I could also trust her with my face/skin care needs. The procedure itself was seamless and done in a comfortable, relaxed setting.  The downtime was minimal.  The results were impressive.  I noticed tighter, firmer skin and an improved complexion.  This will definitely be part of my anti-aging skin care routine!

–PRP Skin Rejuvenation Patient

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine used to be a place I would turn when my primary care provider was unable to address my concerns. After seeing Natasha, I now think of her first.

 

–Natasha’s patient

“Hilary is very thoughtful and a great listener when providing a customized solution. I was new to acupuncture and she was patient and communicative. She really cares for her patients. I’d recommend her to anyone.”

–Acupuncture Patient

“Dr. Herman thoughtfully and thoroughly addressed all of my concerns and recommended testing and treatments my PCP has never mentioned. I look forward to continuing my care with her.”

–Functional Medicine Patient

“Dr. Minarik is incredibly knowledgable. He’s been helping me for the last year and he’s top notch. I’ve been impressed with his understanding of both eastern and western treatment options.”

–Dry Needling & PRP Injections Patient

“Dr. Minarik is very skilled and knowledgeable about prp and prolotherapy. He is very thorough and precise in his treatments. He has a very good bedside manner with patients and explains his findings and treatments very thoroughly.”

–Orthobiologic Injections Patient

“Dr. Herman is amazing! I completed 2 laser resurfacing treatments and am loving the results. Many friends and family members have commented on how great my skin looks! Thanks, Dr. Herman!”

–Aesthetics Patient

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✨ QUIZ TIME! ✨ What can Platelet-Rich Therapi ✨ QUIZ TIME! ✨

What can Platelet-Rich Therapies (PRP & PRF) be used for…?

A) Smoother + healthier skin ✨
B) Hair regrowth + stronger strands 💇‍♀️
C) Faster recovery from injuries 
D) Joint & Pelvic Floor Pain Relief💪
F) All of the Above
What’s your guess? Drop it in the comments! 👇

Platelet-Rich therapies are one of the most powerful regenerative treatments out there, harnessing your body’s own healing factors to restore, rejuvenate, and repair—naturally!

📍 Interested in Regenerative Medicine for Pain relief + Aesthetics?
Book a consultation at Form Health today! Visit the link in bio for more info.

#PRPtherapy #FormHealth #PRF #PRPhairrestoration #PRFhairrestoration #PRPforHealing #NaturalRejuvenation #PortlandAesthetics #sportsmedicine #RegenerativeMedicine #LookBetterFeelBetter #TopForm
GloW Up: 💡 Did you know we can make you glow??? GloW Up:
💡 Did you know we can make you glow???
If you want brighter, firmer, more even-toned skin, this is the ultimate glow-boosting package. Perfect for events, self-care, or just feeling like your best self!

🌟 What’s included?
✔ Custom Facial – Smooth, Hydrate + Tone your skin with this advance aesthetic facial made just for you!
✔ LED Light Therapy – Improve skin barrier health, stimulate cellular renewal + GLoW!
✔ Bonus Discounts on Skincare + Botox® – Maximize your glow with clinical skincare routine + optional anti-wrinkle treatment

Get camera-ready skin that’s dewy, smooth, and fresh—no filters needed.
📲 Ready to glow? Book today using link in bio!

#GlowUpPDX #SkincareGoals #PortlandFacials #RadiantSkin #FormHealthAesthetics #HealthyGlow #epionce #skinbetter #glowup #lookbetterfeelbetter #botox #xeomin #dermaplaning #ledfacial #microcurrent #btsculpt
📣 Tuesday Testimonial 📣 Our certified advan 📣 Tuesday Testimonial 📣

Our certified advance aesthetician — O’Brien Kersten — will make you feel seen + heard while providing excellent care for your skin health! With a wonderful intersection of customized facials & craniosacral — you’ll instantly look AND feel better. 🧖‍♀️ ✨
Repost from @constant_balance_acupuncture • In T Repost from @constant_balance_acupuncture
•
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), your skin’s health is deeply connected to the health of your Lungs and Liver : 

💨 The Lungs rule the skin
In TCM, your lungs control the skin and pores. If they’re weak or dry, you might see dryness, dullness, or eczema flare-ups.
👉 Nourish your lungs with:
• White foods like pears, almonds, radish
• Hydrating herbs like lily bulb and tremella mushroom
• Deep breathing + fresh air (ditch the screens, take a walk!)

🌿 The Liver controls the flow of Qi and blood
A stagnant liver can lead to breakouts, redness, hormonal acne, and a tired-looking complexion.
👉 Support your liver with:
• Leafy greens (dandelion, spinach, chrysanthemum)
• Sour foods like lemon or hawthorn
• Stress relief! Try journaling, movement, or acupuncture

💧 Bonus tip: Drink warm water with goji berries + chrysanthemum to hydrate the skin, soothe the liver, and clear heat.

#skinrejuvenation #tcmskincare #holisticskincare
#facialrejuvenation #lookbetterfeelbetter #lookbetter #formhealth
✨ New to Aesthetics at FoRM? Start Here….✨ ✨ New to Aesthetics at FoRM? Start Here….✨

Here’s a sneak peek into the Custom Combo experience at FoRM! 

The Custom Combo is a fan favorite for its versatility + value — it combines 4-5 advanced aesthetic techniques, which would individually cost $150/treatment, for $225. Not to mention the relaxation factor with the bonus addition of craniosacral therapy. 

This comprehensive session begins with a detailed skin assessment, followed by a tailored blend of aesthetic therapies designed to address your unique skin goals and adapt to seasonal changes.

Whether you’re aiming to rejuvenate, hydrate, or refresh, the Custom Combo offers a curated experience to meet your needs. 

It’s also the cornerstone of our Look Better Memberships, providing consistent, customized care for lasting transformation.

Ready to embark on your skincare journey? 

Book your Custom Combo today and discover the FoRM difference.

#FoRMHealth #CustomCombo #biotherapeutics #skinbetter #LookBetterMembership #AestheticJourney #SkinCare #PortlandAesthetics #GlowUp #Skinrehab #agedefy#PersonalizedSkinCare #SeasonalSkinCare #RadiantSkin
💖 Happy Gut = Happy Skin! 💖 📣 We can’t 💖 Happy Gut = Happy Skin! 💖

📣 We can’t stress enough how important the gut-skin axis is!! 

🦠A balanced gut-microbiome makes metabolites like short-chain fatty acids that calm inflammation, energize our cells, & support your skin barrier. 

💥 An out of balance gut microbiome means more inflammation, inflam-aging of the skin, & flare ups like we see in acne, eczema, or psoriasis. 

Keep your gut happy! Research shows
😃 probiotics,
😃 fermented foods,
😃 fiber-rich foods, 
😃 colorful foods,
😃 hydrating
😃 & lowering sugar, processed foods, + dairy (for some) consumption can take care of your gut so it takes care of your skin. 

Nutrition + functional medicine can truly help you glow from within! ✨ ✨
Look Better Membership: 🫣Skin Rehab 🤗 Ready Look Better Membership: 🫣Skin Rehab 🤗

Ready for your skin to be in top form?
Whether it’s breakouts, redness, scars, or sun damage, our Skin Rehab Membership is designed to calm, correct, and restore a healthy skin barrier for long-term results.
✨ What’s included?
✔ Microneedling – improve skin barrier resiliency + smooth away scars
✔ IPL photorejuvenation - erase discoloration + hyperpigmentation; balance skin microbiome
✔ Custom Facial with LED light therapy– Reduce inflammation, heal + glow!

Your skin works hard—let’s give it the reset it deserves!
📅 Limited spots available this month. Book now!

#SkinRehab #HealthySkinPDX #GlowingComplexion #PortlandBeauty #AestheticsClinic #skinrehab #naturalglow #naturalbeauty #lookbetterfeelbetter
✨ 🍓 Strawberry Cashew Collagen Bites 🍓 ✨ ✨ 🍓 Strawberry Cashew Collagen Bites 🍓 ✨ 

Glowing + radiant skin starts from the inside out! These lil bites are a delicious way to support your skin health by eating the nutrients your skin needs —  plenty of Vit C, collagen, fiber, + healthy fats to boost the integrity of your skin & keep blood sugar happy! 😃 

INGREDIENTS (5servings):
🔸1.5C oats
🔸2tbsp shredded coconut 
🔸1/3oz collagen powder
🔸2tbsp cashew butter (can swap another nut butter too)
🔸2tbsp Greek yogurt 
🔸1/3C strawberries 
🔸2oz freeze dried strawberry 
🔸1tsp vanilla extract
🔸2tbsp water 
🔸2 pinches sea salt 

PROCESS:
🔸Add the oats, shredded coconut, collagen, and salt to a food processor.
🔸 Blend until it starts to combine and form small, crumbly pieces. 
🔸Add the cashew butter, yogurt, strawberries, vanilla, and water. Blend until well combined. 
🔸Add the freeze-dried strawberries and pulse until they break up slightly. 
🔸Refrigerate the mixture for 30 to 35 minutes. Then use a 1-inch (2.5 cm) cookie scoop or a teaspoon to scoop out the mixture and roll it into balls. Continue until all of the mixture has been used.
🔸Chill in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes to allow them to set. Enjoy!
Look Better: Aesthetic Memberships Made for You 🌟

Featured-Tier: 
Age Defy✨

Our Age Defy membership is designed to restore volume, smooth fine lines, and boost collagen production—without the need for synthetic fillers. One of the key treatments? PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Skin Rejuvenation.

PRF is the next generation of PRP, offering:
✔ A longer release of growth factors for greater skin rejuvenation
✔ Increased collagen & elastin production for firmer, more youthful skin
✔ 100% natural approach to anti-aging using your body’s own healing power

In our Age Defy membership, PRF Skin Rejuvenation, which includes microneedling + targeted PRF injections, is combined with other complementary + restorative therapies to achieve smoother, firmer, and younger-looking skin—all while keeping things natural.

🔗 Book your Age Defy transformation today - use link in bio!
📍 Located in Sellwood, Portland

#FormHealthAesthetics #AgeDefy #PRF #SkinRejuvenation #NaturalAntiAging #SellwoodSkincare #hydrodermabrasion #microneedling #customfacial #ledlighttherapy
✨ Consistent Care for Radiant Skin—Introducing ✨ Consistent Care for Radiant Skin—Introducing Our Look Better Memberships! ✨

Healthy, glowing skin isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about consistent, expert care. That’s why we created three membership tiers designed to support your skin’s needs year-round:

🌟 Glow Up – Perfect for restoring hydration, brightness, and maintaining a fresh, youthful appearance!

💆 Skin Rehab – Targeted treatments to repair + restore skin texture, complexion + radiance and combat chronic issues like acne, rosacea + hyperpigmentation!

⏳ Age Defy – Advanced therapies to boost collagen, smooth fine lines, restore volume and defy the aging process.

Each membership offers exclusive perks, savings, and customized treatments so you can look and feel your best—every day.

🔗 Achieve healthy, glowing skin by late Spring/Summer! Schedule today using link in bio!

📍 Located in the heart of Portland’s Sellwood neighborhood

#FormHealthAesthetics #LookBetterPDX #GlowUp #SkinRehab #AgeDefy #PDXBeauty #HealthySkin #naturalbeauty #lookbetterfeelbetter
Happy 50th Birthday to Dr. Ryan Minarik, ND, LAc, Happy 50th Birthday to Dr. Ryan Minarik, ND, LAc, FoRM’s co-owner and Director of Orthopedics & Sports Medicine! 

Throughout his nearly 20 years of practice, Dr. Ryan has been dedicated to providing innovative, patient-centered care that’s helped transform the lives of many who have sought his expertise . 🏃🏽‍♂️🏋️‍♀️🤸🚴‍♀️

His leadership as co-owner of FoRM (and founder of the original clinic, Elixia Wellness Group) and mentorship to new providers and colleagues, has been an integral part of FoRM’s success as a clinic.

A man of true depth with many talents & strengths, Dr. Ryan has earned himself some nicknames at FoRM:

“The Sheriff of FoRM” for his pragmatic leadership and unwavering respect for the rule of law👮‍♂️

“Rob Base” for his (surprisingly) respectable karaoke rap skills!🎤.

Here’s to celebrating a remarkable person & provider and the many adventures ahead 🥂🎉🥳

#HappyBirthday #FoRMHealth #OrthopedicExcellence #CheersTo50 #movebetter #movebetterfeelbetter #naturopathicdoctor
Who’s game to try a super simple anti-inflammato Who’s game to try a super simple anti-inflammatory recipe?! Our nutritionist shares a miso soup with the addition of turmeric to make it that much better for reducing inflammation & nourishing your gut microbiome.

🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚🫚

INGREDIENTS (4servings): 

🔸4 cups veggie (or bone) broth 
🔸1/4 cup miso paste (white or red) 
🔸1lb tofu (diced) 
🔸1 medium carrot (grated) 
🔸4 stalks green onion 
🔸1 tsp ginger (finely grated fresh) 
🔸1/2 tsp turmeric 
🔸1 nori sheet (thinly slice) 
🔸1 tsp rice vinegar 

PROCESS:

🔸bring broth a low simmer 
🔸add miso into a bowl with a little of the hot broth and whisk until smooth. Set aside. 
🔸add the tofu, green onion, carrot, ginger, + turmeric. Summer for 3-4 mins until carrots soften. Add the nori + vinegar and stir to combine everything. 
🔸Remove from heat, add the miso mix, & stir once more so everything combines well. Divide into bowls! 

🔗Link in bio with full recipe! 

#functionalnutrition #pdxnutritionist #foodismedicine #simplerecipes #antiinflammatorydiet #soupseason #healthiswealth #functionalmedicine #movebetter

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Phone

(503) 232-5653

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Hours

Mon–Fri 9am-6pm
Saturday 10am-2pm

Office

FoRM Health
8113 SE 13th Ave
Portland, Oregon
97202

Location

Conveniently located in the beautiful Sellwood neighborhood of Southeast Portland.  Easy access to the Lake Oswego, Oregon City and the entire Portland Metro.

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