Practitioner Directory

David Mortell, R.Ac., Dipl.Ac.

David’s passion for Chinese Medicine was born in 1981 when he was cured of a severe case of insomnia through acupuncture and Chinese herbs. For the past 18 years, David has maintained a thriving practice helping thousands of people recover from numerous health issues. Because of his success in treating so many patients, David has gained a reputation as one of the most experienced and sought after acupuncturists in the Pittsburgh area. His practice was recently featured in the Seen Magazine section of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette newspaper which focused on the many benefits of cosmetic acupuncture.

Throughout his time in practice, David’s passion for acupuncture and Oriental medicine has only grown, as has his ability to provide empathy, humor, and encouragement to his clients.

David has extensive training in cosmetic acupuncture, infertility, pain management, and Chinese pulse diagnosis. In addition to acupuncture and herbs, David also uses moxibustion, acupressure, and cupping to treat allergies, menstrual and menopausal issues, infertility, digestion, sleep problems, headaches, arthritis, pain syndromes, stress, fatigue, smoking cessation, and anxiety/depression.

He also uses the Mei Zen cosmetic acupuncture system for facial rejuvenation.

David graduated with honors in 1989 from the Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe, NM. He is a state registered acupuncturist and herbalist and a nationally board certified diplomate in acupuncture.

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Beautiful Skin Awaits You…

Discover a beauty secret used in China for thousands of years that safely and effectively can help your face look years younger in just 5 weeks! Imagine reducing wrinkles and restoring a healthy glow to your complexion!

The benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture include:

• Elimination of fine lines, softening of deep ones
• Reduction of eye puffiness
• Lifting of sagging skin
• Fading of age spots
• Enhanced overall appearance and health

Additionally, many people report other positive side effects including:

• Increased energy
• Reduction of acne and rosacea
• Less depression and anxiety
• Improved digestion and sleep
• Reduction in hot flashes and night sweats
• Lessening of sinus and allergy symptoms

Read The "Body & Soul" Article On Cosmetic Acupuncture Featuring Pittsburgh Acupuncture [PDF]

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does it work?
Cosmetic Acupuncture uses tiny, hair-like needles to increase collagen production in the skin. Collagen tightens the skin while the acupuncture relaxes the facial muscles and improves the flow of Qi and Blood to the face. This combination of effects gives the complexion a healthy, youthful glow.

2. What can I expect at each treatment?
The initial visit lasts 90 minutes and includes a comprehensive exam with pulse, tongue, and abdomen diagnosis. Follow-up visits last one hour. At each visit you receive the facial protocol as well as a whole body acupuncture treatment that addresses your specific energetic needs.

3. How long do the effects last?
Typically, results last from 3-5 years after a course of 10 treatments. Each person’s results will vary according to age, general health, and condition of your skin. Maintenance treatments are recommended to help maintain the results.

4. Do the needles hurt?
The needles used in Cosmetic Acupuncture are extremely thin and are inserted into the skin superficially (about 1-3 mm). Most patients feel a slight pinch as the needle is inserted, but once the needle is placed, there should be no discomfort.

5. How many treatments are needed?
A course of treatment is twice a week for 5 weeks for a total of 10 sessions. The sterile, disposable needles are retained for 20 minutes or more.

6. What is the cost?
The total cost is $1,200. Included in the cost is individual nutritional and lifestyle counseling. Herbal medicine costs not included.