About Michael Lay, L.Ac.
Michael Lay, L.Ac., NBAO, C.SMA received a Bachelor of Science degree from Loyola University of Chicago.
He earned his Master of Science in Uptown Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Santa Barbara College of Oriental Medicine in 2001.
That same year, he also received an advanced certificate in Acupuncture and Moxibustion from the China Beijing International Uptown Acupuncture Training Center. Following this, he completed a 300-hour course in Acupuncture Orthopedics at the American Acupuncture Academy in Los Angeles. Additionally, he attended a 6-month Sports Medicine apprenticeship program in Boulder, Colorado, under Whitfield Reaves, L.Ac., OMD.
That same year, he also received an advanced certificate in Acupuncture and Moxibustion from the China Beijing International Acupuncture Training Center. Following this, he completed a 300-hour course in Acupuncture Orthopedics at the American Acupuncture Academy in Los Angeles. Additionally, he participated in a 6-month Sports Medicine apprenticeship program in Boulder, Colorado under Whitfield Reaves, L.Ac., OMD.
Michael is licensed to practice in Colorado and certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
He specializes in orthopedics and sports medicine, working with both professional and amateur athletes in Denver. Additionally, he is also knowledgeable in internal and family medicine.
Michael has some of the most extensive training in orthopedic and sports acupuncture in Colorado, including:
Certified by the National Board of Acupuncture Orthopedics since 2001, earning his NBAO.
A 300-hour certification in Acupuncture Orthopedics from the American Acupuncture Academy in Los Angeles under Dr. Hua Gu.
A 6-month apprenticeship in Sport Acupuncture in Boulder, Colorado under Whitfield Reaves, L.Ac.
A 270-hour certification in sports medicine acupuncture from Matt Callison in San Diego, earning his C.SMA.
Michael Lay, L.Ac., provides treatments in his Uptown Acupuncture office in Denver, CO, and at local orthopedic and neurology offices. He is the official acupuncturist of the Denver Harlequins Rugby Team.
With Michael’s extensive experience in orthopedics, he works with patients to find the best pain relief options. He uses methods like trigger point therapy, acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, dry needling, postural assessment, manual muscle testing, orthopedic testing, x-ray/MRI findings, diet recommendations, and exercise therapy. Michael prioritizes high-quality care for his patients.
Michael knows the importance of recovery and injury treatment in sports. As a former collegiate rugby player and competitive skier, he values maintaining a healthy body. He still leads an active lifestyle, competing in various sports and activities.
In his free time, Michael enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters. skiing, hiking, running, playing rugby (and tennis), reading, traveling, and enjoying outdoor activities in Colorado.
Michael Lay’s Expertise at Uptown Acupuncture: Comprehensive Orthopedic and Sports Acupuncture Treatments
Michael has some of the most extensive training in orthopedic and sports acupuncture in Colorado including:
- He has been certified by the National Board of Acupuncture Orthopedics since 2001, and furthermore, he continues to expand his expertise in the field. Gaining his NBAO
- A 300 hour certification in Acupuncture Orthopedics from the American Uptown Acupuncture Academy in Los Angeles under Dr. Hua Gu.
- A 6 month apprenticeship program in Sport Acupuncture in Boulder, Colorado under Whitfield Reaves, L.Ac.
- A 270 hour certification in sports medicine acupuncture from Matt Callison in San Diego and the Sports Medicine Acupuncture certification program, gaining his C.SMA
Michael Lay, L.Ac., provides treatments in his Uptown Acupuncture office in Denver CO, at local orthopedic and neurology offices, and at sports team training facilities. He is currently the official acupuncturist of the Denver Harlequins Rugby Team.
Expert Care and Holistic Healing at Uptown Acupuncture
With Michael’s extensive experience in orthopedics, you can be sure he will work with you to find the best treatment options for your pain relief. He utilizes a variety of methods, such as trigger point therapy, acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, dry needling, postural assessment, manual muscle testing, orthopedic testing and diagnosis, as well as x-ray/MRI findings. Additionally, he provides diet recommendations and exercise therapy to support overall health. Michael prides himself on treating patients with the highest quality of care.
Michael understands the importance of recovery and treatment of injuries in sports. As a former collegiate rugby player who went on to play high level men’s rugby for 15 year and skiing competitively growing up in Colorado, Michael knows how vital keeping your body in top shape is. To this day, he still leads a very active lifestyle and, moreover, competes in many different sports and activities.
In his free time, you will find him spending time with his wife and two daughters, skiing, hiking, running, playing rugby (more recently tennis), reading, traveling and enjoying all of the great outdoor activities Colorado has to offer.
Michael has some of the most extensive training in orthopedic and sports acupuncture in Colorado, including:
Certified by the National Board of Acupuncture Orthopedics since 2001, earning his NBAO.
A 300-hour certification in Acupuncture Orthopedics from the American Acupuncture Academy in Los Angeles under Dr. Hua Gu.
A 6-month apprenticeship in Sport Acupuncture in Boulder, Colorado under Whitfield Reaves, L.Ac.
A 270-hour certification in sports medicine acupuncture from Matt Callison in San Diego, earning his C.SMA.
Michael Lay, L.Ac., provides treatments in his Uptown Acupuncture office in Denver, CO, and at local orthopedic and neurology offices. He is the official acupuncturist of the Denver Harlequins Rugby Team.
With Michael’s extensive experience in orthopedics, he works with patients to find the best pain relief options. He uses methods like trigger point therapy, acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, dry needling, postural assessment, manual muscle testing, orthopedic testing, x-ray/MRI findings, diet recommendations, and exercise therapy. Michael prioritizes high-quality care for his patients.
Michael knows the importance of recovery and injury treatment in sports. As a former collegiate rugby player and competitive skier, he values maintaining a healthy body. He still leads an active lifestyle, competing in various sports and activities.
In his free time, Michael enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters. skiing, hiking, running, playing rugby (and tennis), reading, traveling, and enjoying outdoor activities in Colorado.
About Dr. Ali Hahn (DACM, L.Ac, DIPL. OM)
Uptown Acupuncture is thrilled to welcome Dr. Ali Hahn to our Denver team. Ali is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, a nationally board-certified acupuncturist and herbalist, and licensed to practice in Colorado, New York, and California. She holds a Doctorate from Pacific College of Health and Science in San Diego and brings a grounded, integrative approach to holistic care.
Ali specializes in women’s health and fertility, digestive health, cosmetic acupuncture, stress reduction, and pain management. Her treatment style blends Traditional Chinese Medicine, Five Element theory, orthopedic and motor point acupuncture, and hands-on bodywork including tui na, gua sha, and cupping. With additional certification in facial rejuvenation and microneedling, she also offers specialized treatments to support graceful aging and skin vitality.
Dr. Ali Hahn Expertise at Uptown Acupuncture:
Known for her compassionate and intuitive presence, Ali combines the wisdom of Chinese medicine with modern health strategies. She takes a whole-person approach to care—looking beyond symptoms to uncover and treat root causes. Whether she’s supporting IVF cycles, relieving musculoskeletal pain, or restoring nervous system balance, her goal is always to guide patients toward optimal well-being.
Outside the clinic, Ali leads breathwork and meditation sessions, creates educational content, and facilitates women’s retreats grounded in seasonal wisdom and self-renewal. She is excited to bring her passion for healing to the vibrant Uptown Acupuncture community and to support the health journeys of patients in the Denver area.
Michael was great to work with during my training. He truly helped me perform my best and recover from injuries more quickly.
Mike Alvarado
Great to work with Mike it really goes a long way when you can stay humble and make people around you feel comfortable. He has really helped me out with my professional fighters, getting them ready for a big combat events. Thank you very much appreciate what you do and the love you have for your profession.
Juan “Jon Jon” Vigil
I have been a patient of Michael’s for almost a year. As a former professional athlete I have been exposed to many exceptional medical professionals—and have to say that Michael is one of the best. At one point in time I could barely move because of back pain and within a couple of treatment sessions, I was quickly on the mend. Whenever I have pain due to tight muscles he is able to calm it down and get me back to my regular activities. Michael is so knowledgeable and I’m thankful I found him!
Meredith McGrath
I highly recommend Michael for all your acupuncture needs. He’s incredibly skilled, knowledgeable, and truly takes the time to listen. His expertise with athletes at all levels is impressive, and he always seems to know exactly what’s needed. Whether you’re a competitive or recreational athlete, or just a parent chasing kids around, you can trust Michael to help you get back on your feet (literally!), feel great and perform at your best.
Caroline O’Connor
As a masseuse, it is very important to keep my body in proper health. Michael has been the link to help me obtain that state of strength and health, not only in my hands and forearms, but also in my entire being. Thanks Michael.
Gregorio PraderaGet in touch with us
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I trust Michael Lay, L.Ac. for all of my acupuncture needs. He helps keep me in the game.
Erik Pears Former Denver Bronco