Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a 3,000+ year old healing modality originating in China that uses the stimulation of specific areas on the body to improve the body’s functions, release endorphins to stop pain, regulate the autonomic nervous system and facilitate the body’s own natural healing processes. Typically, fine, single-use surgical grade steel needles are inserted into the skin at specific points on the body and retained for 15-45 minutes while the patient relaxes. However, points can also be effectively stimulated through acupressure, or contact needling, where the needles do not penetrate the skin’s surface. Modern research has demonstrated acupuncture’s effects on the nervous system, endocrine and immune systems, cardiovascular system, and digestive system. By guiding the body towards its desired homeostasis, acupuncture can facilitate the healing of conditions that conventional medicine struggles to effectively resolve. Many patients find acupuncture to be effective at relieving pain, easing stress and improving their circulation, skin, digestion, sleep and mood.
Cupping
Cupping is a traditional modality used in China and other cultures where glass or plastic cups are placed on the skin for 5-10 minutes using suction to draw the skin and superficial muscle layer into the cup. The suction increases blood and lymph flow, draws out toxins and relieves local musculature. This pressure is not painful and many patients feel relaxed afterward. Cupping is often done on the back but can be used anywhere on the body. Circular marks from the cups can remain on the skin for several days following treatment so please let your practitioner know if you have upcoming plans that may influence where cups are placed on your body.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine is an excellent complement to acupuncture as it supports healing in between acupuncture treatments and can help to resolve conditions faster. Like acupuncture, herbal medicine takes a holistic approach to the body’s functions and disease processes. There are over 200 plants, minerals and animal products that are used to treat conditions ranging from insomnia to menopause to the common cold. Herbal formulas can be taken as powders, pills or tinctures to address internal conditions but can also be applied topically as salves and liniments to treat pain and inflammation. Herbal medicine can also be used in a preventative manner, to strengthen the immune system and regulate the nervous system to promote well-being.
Self-Care & Nutritional Support
Sometimes it’s hard to see the forest for the trees. Often we know the challenges we’re facing, or where we get stuck, but we don’t see a way forward. Talking to your practitioner about your health and lifestyle goals and the challenges you are facing can take the pressure off of having to figure it out yourself and provide a fresh perspective. Let’s develop a plan to get you where you want to be and tackle it together. A first step is all you need.
Low-Level Laser Acupuncture
Low-level laser treatments are a non-invasive, non-toxic therapy applied to specific acupuncture points and meridians in accordance with your treatment plan. Low-level lasers work synergistically with acupuncture needles but can be used in place of for a non-invasive treatment. I use an Erchonia EVRL low-level, non-thermal (cold) laser which has received FDA clearances for chronic neck and shoulder pain as well as acne. Low-level laser therapy stimulates photoreceptors in cells, specifically the mitochondria, stimulating their production of ATP, the cell's energy source. This improves cellular function by increasing circulation and releasing endorphins, allowing the cell to work more efficiently and repair. The result is accelerated healing and tissue regeneration, reduced pain and inflammation and an antimicrobial effect. Low-level laser therapy can be effective for:
-
acute and chronic pain
-
carpal tunnel syndrome
-
plantar fasciitis
-
accelerated healing post-surgery or injury
-
scar rejuvenation
-
insomnia
-
anxiety & stress
-
acne
-
wound healing
-
asthma
-
immune support
