Dr. Ryan Shepherd, N.D., L.Ac., R.Ac.
Naturopathic Physician
100 Commons Rd #1 Dripping Springs TX, 78620About
Dr. Ryan Shepherd is a naturopathic physician and acupuncturist practicing in Dripping Springs, TX. Dr. Shepherd specializes in functional medicine and myofascial pain with proactive prevention and treatment. Dr. Shepherd combines holistic healing methods such as diet and lifestyle modification, herbal medicine, acupuncture and advanced testing along with traditional solutions to medical illness. Providing both individual and family care, the most common ailments treated are anxiety, chronic pain, digestive issues, obesity, heart disease, fertility, menopause, cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome. Functional medicine practitioners place a strong emphasis on natural remedies with objective measures through bloodwork to track progress towards optimal health.
Education and Training
University of Westminster. BSc 2012
Nanjing FSN Medical Institute FSN 2013
Provider Details
Dr. Ryan Shepherd, N.D., L.Ac., R.Ac.'s Expert Contributions
Can chronic fatigue syndrome be treated with acupuncture?
Yes acupuncture can help as a part of the treatment, but herbal medicines would be a better avenue with quicker results. READ MORE
What alternative healing practices can reduce my back pain?
There are several good quality papers published on acupuncture as being a very effective treatment option for painful conditions. It is important, however, to seek out an acupuncturist who has an orthopedic focus in their practice. READ MORE
Does acupuncture work for mental illness?
There is a long history of acupuncture and Chinese medicine being used to manage/stabilize the spectrum of mental health conditions as before the development of western medicine, there was nothing else. That’s not to say every condition was managed well, but there is much success even today. For more information, please read the following text written by Dr. Rossi, MD: Shen: Psycho-Emotional Aspects of Chinese Medicine READ MORE
Does acupuncture help with high blood pressure?
Acupuncture can help with successfully managing hypertension, however it is not going to be an overnight treatment. If your blood pressure is very high, please seek medical attention, however the Chinese herbal medicine preparations can be fast acting for blood pressure that is mildly elevated. READ MORE
Can acupuncture be dangerous?
Any medical treatment can be considered dangerous in the wrong hands. As acupuncture needles are very thin, there is significantly less risk. When seeking acupuncture treatment, ensure you are looking at their qualifications and visiting with a licensed acupuncturist. READ MORE
Can arthritis knee pain be treated with acupuncture?
There is a high chance that you would receive relief from acupuncture for your arthritic knee pain. The longevity of the relief from pain would depend on the deterioration of the joint. If your x-ray shows little cartilage, the relief will only be temporary and acupuncture would maintain the knee rather than “treat” the pain as you may be in need of surgical intervention. READ MORE
Can acupuncture help fertility?
Yes, fertility is one of the lesser known areas acupuncture has been shown to excel in. There are several good quality papers on acupuncture and fertility. READ MORE
Areas of expertise and specialization
Professional Memberships
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario
- National Association of Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists
- National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
- Texas Medical Board
- American Herbalist Guild
Professional Society Memberships
- National Association of Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists, The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario
Articles and Publications
- Dr. Shepherd had a chapter published in 2013 regarding Subcutaneous Needling. He teaches FSN so others can become certified, and speaks regularly at conferences.
What do you attribute your success to?
- His supportive family and perseverance. He followed a path that was unique to himself. He was curious at a young age and would go to health food stores when he was 12 years old to ask questions and learn about essential oils and plant based medicine. It\'s his passion to learn about herbal medicine that led to his professional career as a medical herbalist and acupuncturist. He left for schooling in the UK right after graduation from high school. He has studied in the UK, China and Canada, and believes experiencing different cultures and having a varied education has helped him be a better healthcare provider.
Dr. Ryan Shepherd, N.D., L.Ac., R.Ac.'s Practice location
Shepherd Functional Medicine
100 Commons Rd #1 -Dripping Springs, TX 78620Get Direction
Dr. Ryan Shepherd, N.D., L.Ac., R.Ac.'s reviews
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