Nilesh Shah, MAOM, LAc, Sports therapist (U.K.)

My formal education path…

I have lived in Mumbai, India for most of my life. Although I am from a remote part of Western India—the Rann of Kutch, I completed my undergraduate studies from The University of Huddersfield, UK with BSc(Hons) Sports Therapy in 2008. I moved to the United States in 2017 to study acupuncture, and I successfully graduated with a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from New England School of Acupuncture in 2020.

My undergraduate studies covered in-depth human anatomy, physiology, and other related topics. I was lucky to conduct my clinical internship at Leeds Carnegie Sports Clinic, which gave me an opportunity to observe and practice with Great Britain’s elite athletes and physiotherapists. I was exposed to various therapies and professions such as acupuncture, visceral manipulation, and craniosacral. During my time at the University of Huddersfield, I also worked with professional sports teams such Huddersfield Giants RUFC and Huddersfield Town FC.

While studying acupuncture at the New England School of Acupuncture, I thrived in the educational environment. I gained a strong foundational knowledge of acupuncture and Chinese herbs. I had an opportunity to intern at Boston Medical Center and secured an internship at Massachusetts General Hospital. During my time at the New England School of Acupuncture, I served as treasurer for the Student Association and was the Regional Director for the Student Committee of the American Society of Acupuncturists.

My work experience …

I worked with various professional sports teams on my return to India in 2008. My last assignment was working with the Indian national basketball team. From 2012 to 2017, I operated my own sports injury clinic called Range of Motion in Mumbai, India. During my time in India, I studied acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and visceral manipulation. I am a practitioner of Iyengar Yoga, which I find extremely helpful for rehabilitation. Since becoming a healing practitioner, I have given my patients a holistic approach using the needle, electrotherapy, exercise, visceral manipulation, and strong injury prevention advice.

Herbs and me…

In an Indian family, spices and herbs are used for both culinary purposes and their immense health and immunity benefits. Considering my time as a health and sports rehabilitation specialist, injury prevention is a key aspect of my clinical practice.

Importance is given to various aspects of injury prevention such as biomechanics and hydrating electrolyte formulas. As a result, herbs are completely overlooked. I believe herbs have the potential to promote healing and prevent injury. One must not forget that Achilles used yarrow and other herbs to treat the wounds of his men.

Connection with my spiritual path…

I am proud to have been born into a Jain family and raised with Jainism values. The four important doctrines of Jainism are Atamavad (The Doctrine of Soul), Lokavad (The Doctrine of Cosmos), Karmavad (The Doctrine of Karma) and Kriyavad (The Doctrine of Action). Jainism makes one conscious about the environment around oneself through observation. I find that Chinese medicine has a similar connection because treatment relies on observation.

Acupuncture is the most commonly used modality of treatment in Chinese medicine. I find that I embody and incorporate the teachings of Jainism while treating my patients. For example, if I have a positive intention while needling a patient, I obtain the desired positive result. My positive intentions consist of the four doctrine teachings of Jainism. These doctrines help me to stay grounded, focused, and positive.

Bit more about myself…

I enjoy bicycling, swimming, and travelling. I have a passion for Yoga and gardening because they have an influence on my physical and spiritual well being.

I lived in a joint-family—a multi generation family, until I was a teenager. As a result, I picked up different human traits from different family members. My late grandfather continues to be a role model in my life. He was a pillar of the Kutchi community—an ethnic community in India, and would offer legal advice, financial help, and aid in other ways.

My family members are in different fields of healing—some are pharmacists and physicians. I was unsure about my path as a child, but I knew I enjoyed helping and healing people. I have worked in many health related fields—trainer, sports therapist, and acupuncturist. I have gained valuable work experience and have become a more holistic practitioner. I would like to specialize in:

• Sports & orthopedics
• Electroacupuncture
• Master’s Tung style
• Women’s health
• Cancer
• Herbs