Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeanette Carranza Islas.
Hi Jeanette, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my journey at San Diego State University, where I earned my degree in Kinesiology in 2009. My background has always been rooted in movement and performance — I grew up involved in sports, worked as a physical therapy aide, coached swimming, and personally completed three 70.3 triathlons. That foundation gave me a deep appreciation for how the body moves, heals, and adapts.
As I worked more closely with patients in rehab settings, I became increasingly interested in not just recovery, but whole-person healing. That curiosity led me to pursue a Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine, which I completed in 2014. I became licensed as a California acupuncturist in 2015 and began building my clinical experience.
Wanting to deepen my clinical knowledge and expand my scope of care, I went on to complete my Doctorate in 2019.
Today, my work integrates my sports and biomechanics background with traditional East Asian medicine. I specialize in helping patients optimize performance, recover from injury, manage stress, and improve overall well-being — blending evidence-based movement principles with holistic care.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It wasn’t a smooth road.
English is my second language — I learned it at 15 when my parents immersed me in high school. Going through a rigorous science degree and then studying Traditional Chinese Medicine — with complex medical terminology in both English and Chinese — was a major challenge.
The master’s program was intense, with long clinical hours and heavy memorization. Preparing for the California Acupuncture Licensing Exam required full commitment — I studied about eight hours a day for six months while balancing work and life responsibilities.
It demanded discipline, resilience, and sacrifice — but those challenges shaped me into the focused, committed practitioner I am today.
We’ve been impressed with Casa Zen Acupuncture , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I opened my practice in 2017 with a vision of integrating movement science and Traditional Chinese Medicine into one comprehensive approach to healing.
I specialize in pain management, stress reduction, nervous system regulation, women’s health, arthritis, and exercise-related injuries. My background in kinesiology allows me to assess biomechanics and treat injuries with a deeper understanding of how the body moves and compensates. That foundation really sets me apart — I bridge sports medicine principles with acupuncture and holistic care.
In my treatments, I combine acupuncture with cupping, moxibustion, herbal medicine, heat therapy, LED light therapy, and infrared to create highly personalized protocols. I’m especially known for working with active individuals and women navigating hormonal balance and stress.
One of my favorite areas — and something I’m deeply passionate about — is facial and cosmetic acupuncture. I incorporate microneedling, LED light therapy, and Chinese medicine–infused herbal creams and facial oils to support skin health naturally from the inside out.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of collaborating with a fellow acupuncturist to develop Khepra Skin Lab, a cosmetic facial oil line rooted in Chinese medicine principles. It represents the evolution of my practice — merging internal wellness with external radiance.
What I want readers to know is that my brand is about integration — science and tradition, movement and stillness, internal health and outward vitality. My goal is not just to treat symptoms, but to restore balance and help patients feel strong, calm, and confident in their bodies.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Casa Zen Acupuncture, is located at 4190 Bonita Road, Suite 103, patients can schedule a visit by calling 619-925-2017.
For collaborations or partnerships aligned with holistic health, movement, and natural beauty, I welcome connection. The best way to reach me is via Instagram at @dr.islas.casazen or @casa.zen.acu. My website, www.casa-zen.com, is currently being refreshed as the brand continues to grow.
I’m always open to building meaningful partnerships that support whole-body wellness and elevated care.
Pricing:
- New Patient Evaluation $135
- Acupuncture $110
- Microneedling $250
- Facial Acupuncture $110
- Cupping $70
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.casa-zen.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casa.zen.acu | https://www.instagram.com/dr.islas.casazen
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.islas.casazen
