About Miru
Erica Wiles
Owner | L.Ac., Dipl. Ac.
Erica Wiles, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. (NCBAHM), is a Licensed Acupuncturist in Virginia and nationally board certified by the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (NCBAHM). She earned her Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Virginia Tech and her Master’s of Science in Acupuncture from Virginia University of Integrative Medicine. Erica is also a Certified Health Coach through the Institute for the Psychology of Eating and has completed specialized training in Microneedling through San Diego Cosmetic Acupuncture and Toma Skin Therapies.
Erica takes an evidence-informed approach to patient care, combining traditional acupuncture with modern orthopedic assessment and treatment techniques. She has completed extensive postgraduate training in orthopedic acupuncture through ASE Seminars, including advanced coursework and a cadaver-based anatomy dissection program with AcuSport Education. This training has strengthened her understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy, pain conditions, and movement dysfunction, allowing her to provide targeted care for patients experiencing pain, injury, and mobility limitations.
For the month of September 2025, Erica traveled to Hong Kong and Shanghai, working alongside Traditional Chinese Medicine physicians in hospital settings, gaining valuable experience in the integration of acupuncture within multidisciplinary healthcare environments.
Her treatments incorporate acupuncture, electroacupuncture, dry needling, motor point therapy, and other therapeutic techniques tailored to each patient's needs and goals. Erica is passionate about helping patients reduce pain, improve function, and achieve lasting results through individualized care.
She believes effective healthcare begins with listening, thorough assessment, and a collaborative treatment plan that addresses the underlying factors contributing to symptoms. Her goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care that helps individuals move, feel, and live better.
Acupuncture
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. While there are different theories about how acupuncture works, the most widely accepted theory is based on the concept of "Qi" (pronounced "chee"), which is believed to be the life force energy that flows through the body.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, Qi flows through channels called meridians, which are located throughout the body. When Qi flows freely through these channels, a person is said to be healthy, but when there is a blockage or imbalance of Qi, illness and pain can result.
Acupuncture is believed to work by stimulating specific points on the body, which are said to correspond to different organs and systems in the body. The needles are inserted at varying depths, depending on the location and the condition being treated. The stimulation of these points is believed to help restore the balance and flow of Qi, which can help alleviate pain, improve organ function, and promote overall health.
Modern scientific research has found that acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins and other natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. Acupuncture has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce pain and swelling. Additionally, acupuncture may help regulate the autonomic nervous system, which controls various bodily functions such as digestion, breathing, and circulation.
What can acupuncture be used for?
Acupuncture can be used for a wide range of health conditions. Some common applications include:
Pain management — Acupuncture is often used to alleviate pain, such as headaches, back pain, neck pain, and joint pain.
Stress reduction— Acupuncture can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation.
Mental health — It may be used to support the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions.
Digestive disorders — Acupuncture can help with digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and nausea.
Women's health — It is commonly used for menstrual disorders, fertility support, pregnancy-related symptoms, and menopausal symptoms.
Respiratory conditions — Acupuncture may provide relief for asthma, allergies, sinusitis, and common cold symptoms.
Neurological conditions — It can be used for conditions like migraines, neuropathy, and post-stroke rehabilitation.
Immune support — Acupuncture may help strengthen the immune system and support overall wellness.
Sleep disorders — It can assist in managing insomnia and improving sleep quality.
Wellness promotion — Many people use acupuncture to enhance overall well-being, promote relaxation, and maintain balance in the body.
