Michele Arnold’s Journey into Acupuncture: From Biology to Traditional Chinese Medicine

At a recent North County Referrals meeting, Michele Arnold, licensed acupuncturist in San Diego, shared the fascinating and often surprising story of how she found her calling in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Michele began her academic path in biology, earning her degree from San Diego State University. While working part-time in a lab, pipetting and counting tumor tissue culture cells, she realized that although she loved biology, anatomy, and physiology, she wanted something more hands-on and people-focused. Medical school did not feel like the right fit, so she went to the library and started researching alternative paths.

That research led her to acupuncture and to Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in Mission Valley. At the time, she knew very little about acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine. Curious, she toured the school and even followed one of the founders for a day in his clinic. After experiencing treatments herself and seeing the work firsthand, she made a quick but confident decision to enroll. What seemed unconventional in the mid-1990s soon became her professional passion.

Acupuncture school was rigorous. The program was four years long and, at the time, led to what was called an Oriental Medical Doctor degree before it was reclassified as a master’s degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. Michele described the curriculum as essentially pre-med combined with extensive training in Chinese medical theory. Students had to master anatomy, nerve pathways, muscle structure, organ depth, and precise needle technique. Depth, direction, and angle matter in acupuncture, especially when working near delicate areas such as the wrist, around the eyes, or near major organs.

Licensing in California was also far more demanding than it is today. Michele had to travel to Sacramento for a two-part exam offered only a few times per year. The practical exam required candidates to physically locate acupuncture points on live models and place markers within the size of a pencil eraser. They also had to identify herbs, explain their functions, and develop full diagnostic and treatment plans based on case scenarios including tongue and pulse analysis. Today, much of the testing process has been digitized, but Michele experienced the hands-on era firsthand.

One of the highlights of her training was a trip to China in 1999, where she studied in a Traditional Chinese Medicine hospital. There, she observed stark contrasts between clinics serving everyday patients and those serving wealthier individuals. In some facilities, reusable needles were still common, and medical privacy standards differed greatly from those in the United States. The experience gave her a deep appreciation for California’s strict safety standards, including the requirement to use disposable needles and proper biohazard protocols.

Michele also spoke about evolving safety considerations in her own practice. She is mindful of patients who are on blood thinners such as Eliquis or other anticoagulants, adjusting treatment methods accordingly. In certain cases, she may avoid specific techniques or focus on safer areas of the body. Her approach reflects a strong foundation in both traditional principles and modern medical awareness.

Throughout her story, Michele’s passion for her profession was evident. From humorous early classroom misunderstandings about “liver qi” to the intensity of four-hour clinical training sessions, her journey reflects dedication, adaptability, and a genuine desire to help people heal.

Today, Michele Arnold serves the San Diego community with a blend of scientific knowledge, traditional wisdom, and decades of experience. Her story is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful careers begin with curiosity, courage, and a willingness to explore something new.

To connect with Michele Arnold and learn more about how acupuncture may support your health and wellness goals, reach out through the North County Referrals network.