On Point Acupuncture NY has opened at 1875 US-6, in Carmel Hamlet. Owner of the practice Richard Yonke, MSOM, LMT, LAc, incorporates medical massage therapy in his 45- to 60-minute treatments to enhance the process of acupuncture—an ancient healing art that involves applying hair-thin needles to specific points of the body to manipulate the immune system and help the body maintain homeostasis.

"I have been renting space from a chiropractor in Kent, New York, and needed a more visible location,” says Yonke. “The space in Carmel is modern, and along with the artisanal vibe and great location, I was happy to relocate. Before COVID, I worked for different medical professionals and was only in private practice part-time. Now, I am building a private practice in a great space. It’s all ‘new’ to me. I’m excited to evolve in the Carmel community.”

Yonke is New York State licensed in both massage therapy and acupuncture, and has a master’s degree in oriental medicine from New York College of Health Professions, in Syosset.

“Having worked alongside an array of physicians (i.e., physiatrists, orthopedists, neurologists, chiropractors and physical therapists), I have gained the knowledge and skill to focus my practice on pain management,” explains Yonke. “I utilize medical massage therapy in all my acupuncture treatments; a few minutes of hands-on work increases blood flow and supports the treatment focus, whether it’s lower back pain, rotator cuff or shoulder injuries, headaches, knee joint pain, shingles or Bell’s palsy, just to name a few.”