Hi, I’m Dorothy.

When I was young, I watched my grandfather go through the harsh treatments of Western medicine. The treatment worked, but the outcome was not good. The treatments caused much suffering, and I never forgot it. I knew then that I wanted to be a healer, and I wanted to practice a medicine that supports the body’s health without harsh side effects.

That’s what led me to acupuncture and Chinese medicine. More than 25 years later, I still love this work: helping people feel better, think more clearly, and for many of my fertility patients, move closer to the family they’ve been dreaming of.

I’m the founder of Pang Acupuncture and Wellness in South San Francisco, and I’m also a mom of three. I know how easy it is to put your own health last, so when you’re in my office, you’re the one who gets my full attention.

What you can expect at your first visit

I start by listening. We’ll typically go through your full health history, including your symptoms, sleep, stress, digestion, and energy, because these things are connected. I’ll explain what I’m seeing and what I recommend in plain language, and we’ll build a plan together. My treatments are gentle and comfortable, and if needles make you nervous, we can go slowly or use laser acupuncture, which I also offer for children.

Where I focus: fertility and pain relief

I work with women and couples trying to conceive naturally or through IVF and IUI, and with people dealing with back, neck, and shoulder pain, carpal tunnel symptoms, and migraines. 

Research and writing

I believe you deserve clear, honest information, so I stay involved in research and education:

• Author, Should I Be Worried About Infertility?, a clear, reassuring guide to understanding fertility. [Link to the book]
• Co-author (with Jane Abanes), Enhancing Fertility with Acupuncture: A Case Series, presented at SAR 2025 (Abstract #149).
• Co-author (with Jane Abanes), Acupuncture for Pseudobulbar Syndrome: A Case Report, 2025 International Congress Abstract Supplement. [Link to PubMed Central entry]
• Presenter for National Infertility Awareness Week. 

Staying close to the research helps me explain your options honestly, including what acupuncture can and can’t do for you.

What patients say

Patients have shared more than 70 five-star reviews on Google, and the theme that comes up most is feeling heard.

“I cannot overstate the profound impact her care and attention have had on my health and wellness” — Kelly D.

[Link: Read all our Google reviews]

Training and credentials

• Master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Bachelor’s degree, Pitzer College
• Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.), State of California [add license number if you wish]
• Over 25 years of clinical experience

Ready to talk?

If you’ve been wondering whether acupuncture might help, I’d love to hear your story. I’m in-network with some major insurance plans, and I’m happy to help you double check your coverage.

[Click Book an appointment] | Call (650) 588-0888 | 333 El Camino Real, Suite A, South San Francisco, CA 94080