Acupuncture and Breast Milk Production

How Acupuncture and Acupressure Can Enhance Breast Milk Production: A Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Approach

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach that integrates acupuncture, acupressure, and dietary recommendations to support breastfeeding. This article explores how acupuncture can help increase breast milk production, along with key acupressure points and foods from TCM that can further enhance lactation.

Understanding Breast Milk Production in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In TCM, milk production is linked to the flow of Qi (vital energy) and the nourishment of the body’s fluids. The "Spleen" and "Kidney" organs play a key role in producing the body’s fluids, while the "Liver" is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi. When any of these systems are out of balance, it can result in insufficient milk production.

Breast milk is viewed as a product of the essence of blood and Qi, which is why TCM emphasizes restoring balance in the body to encourage lactation. Acupuncture, acupressure, herbs, and diet are used in TCM to support mothers in boosting breast milk production.

How Acupuncture Can Improve Breast Milk Production

Acupuncture is a key component of TCM, involving the insertion of fine needles at specific points on the body to help restore balance and improve the flow of Qi. For lactating mothers, acupuncture can stimulate lactation by enhancing blood flow to the breast tissue, promoting the production of milk, and reducing stress and tension.

Common acupuncture points used for boosting milk production include:

1. SP6 – Located on the lower leg, this point helps regulate the body's Qi and promotes the flow of milk. It's also beneficial for balancing the Spleen and Kidney systems.

2. Ren 17  – This point is found on the chest and is used to enhance milk production by promoting the flow of Qi to the chest and breast area.

3. Zi Gong  – Located a few inches below the navel, this point helps with hormone balance and the production of milk. It’s often used to treat issues related to insufficient lactation.

4. Breast-Specific Points (ST18, SI1) – These points are directly linked to breast health and can stimulate lactation, helping to increase milk flow and support the overall health of the breasts.

Acupressure for Breast Milk Production

Acupressure is a non-invasive alternative to acupuncture, involving the application of pressure to specific points on the body. Similar to acupuncture, acupressure helps stimulate the flow of Qi, improve circulation, and reduce stress, all of which support milk production.

Key acupressure points for lactating mothers include:

1. Spleen 6 (SP6) – Pressing this point can help enhance milk production and regulate reproductive health.

2. Ren 17 – Gentle pressure on this point helps promote Qi flow to the chest, assisting with milk production.

3. Kidney 27 (KD27)  – Located on the collarbone area, this point is great for stimulating milk supply and helping with energy levels.

4. Small Intestine 1 (SI 1) – Located on the little finger, this point is particularly effective for stimulating lactation, especially when milk flow is slow or blocked.

To perform acupressure, simply use your thumb or index finger to apply firm, steady pressure on the designated points for about 1-2 minutes at a time. It’s important to perform this regularly, ideally in the morning and evening, for the best results.

TCM Foods to Support Lactation

In addition to acupuncture and acupressure, TCM recommends certain foods that can naturally boost milk production. These foods nourish the body’s Qi and blood, support the Spleen and Kidney functions, and help increase breast milk supply. Here are some key foods for lactating mothers based on TCM principles:

1. Red Dates (Jujube) – Red dates are commonly used in TCM to tonify blood and improve the body’s Qi. They help boost milk production and may help increase energy levels.

2. Black Sesame Seeds – Known for their ability to nourish blood and improve circulation, black sesame seeds are often recommended for lactating women to support milk production.

3. Ginger – Fresh ginger is widely used in TCM to warm the body, support digestion, and strengthen the Spleen. It’s also a great natural remedy for boosting breast milk production.

4. Papaya – Papayas are high in vitamin C and contain enzymes that support the production of breast milk. TCM practitioners often recommend papaya as a natural remedy for increasing milk supply.

5. Oats and Barley – Both of these grains are highly nourishing for the body and promote milk production. They are also easy to digest, which is particularly beneficial for mothers who are recovering from childbirth.

6. Chicken Soup – In TCM, nourishing soups made from chicken and other warming ingredients are thought to improve Qi and blood circulation, leading to enhanced lactation.

7. Bone Broth – Full of collagen and minerals, bone broth is highly recommended for strengthening the body after childbirth and supporting milk production.

Tips for Optimizing Breast Milk Production with TCM

1. Stay Hydrated: TCM emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper hydration for milk production. Drink warm teas such as ginger tea, red date tea, or chrysanthemum tea to support digestion and lactation.

2. Stress Reduction: Stress is a major factor that can interfere with milk production. Find what works best for you—whether it's meditation, journaling, or simply unplugging for a while—and make it a regular part of your routine to manage stress effectively.

3. Eat Balanced, Nourishing Meals: Focus on foods that balance the body’s Qi and nourish the blood, as these will directly support your body’s ability to produce breast milk.

4. Rest When You Can: Adequate rest is essential for maintaining milk production. In TCM, rest helps restore the body’s energy and nourish vital fluids.

Acupuncture, acupressure, and diet are all valuable tools in the TCM approach to boosting breast milk production. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can naturally support lactation while also enhancing your overall well-being. 

Remember, always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatments, especially if you’re experiencing medical concerns.

Please feel free to contact the office with any questions.

Take Care!

Acupuncture for Morning Sickness and Heartburn During Pregnancy

Acupuncture for Morning Sickness and Heartburn During Pregnancy

Morning Sickness: Nausea’s Natural Nemesis

Morning sickness affects up to 80% of pregnant women, often peaking during the first trimester. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, it’s believed to involve hormonal shifts, particularly the rise in hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and estrogen. Stress and emotional factors may also play a role.

How acupuncture helps:
Studies have shown that acupuncture, particularly at the Pericardium 6 (PC6) point on the inner wrist, may significantly reduce nausea and vomiting in pregnant people. This point is also used in motion sickness and post-operative nausea, with evidence supporting its effectiveness.

Heartburn Relief 

As your baby grows, your digestive system can get a bit squished, often resulting in heartburn or acid reflux. Hormonal shifts in levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy may relax the smooth muscle of the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

That burning sensation in the chest is typically due to stomach acid creeping up the esophagus, and it can make meals (and sleep) a real struggle.

How acupuncture helps:
TCM views heartburn during pregnancy as a sign of stomach heat, food stagnation or an imbalance in digestive energy. Acupuncture can help calm this excess, promoting smoother digestion and reducing the upward flow of acid.

Acupuncture points located on the foot, lower leg, wrist, or mid-abdomen can assist in guiding digestive fluids to their appropriate pathways.

At Home Tips:

Nausea

• Eat small, frequent meals – Aim for 5–6 small meals a day instead of 3 large ones.

• Keep bland snacks handy – Crackers, toast, or dry cereal can help ease morning nausea.

• Stay hydrated – Sip water, ginger tea, or electrolyte drinks throughout the day.

• Try ginger – Ginger tea, candies, or supplements may help reduce nausea.

• Get fresh air – Open windows or go for a walk to reduce queasiness.

• Avoid triggers – Strong smells, spicy foods, greasy foods, or stuffy environments can increase nausea.

• Acupressure bands- These put continual pressure on PC6, the empirical point for nausea. You can buy these or make them at home. 

Reflux

• Sleep with your head elevated – Use extra pillows or a wedge to keep your upper body raised.

• Avoid lying down after eating – Wait at least 2–3 hours after meals before lying down.

• Eat smaller, slower meals – Large meals can increase pressure on your stomach and trigger reflux.

• Limit trigger foods – Avoid spicy, fatty, fried, and acidic foods

• Talk to your doctor – If symptoms are severe, antacids or other pregnancy-safe medications may be needed.

We hope you find these tips to be helpful. Please contact the office with any questions.

Take Care!

Acupuncture and Stress

Stress and Acupuncture: A Path to Balance and Well-Being

The Impacts of Stress on the Body

Stress doesn't just affect your mind—it also takes a toll on your physical health. Chronic stress can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

• Headaches and migraines

• Digestive issues like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea

• Muscle tension and pain, especially in the neck, shoulders, and lower back

• Sleep disturbances such as insomnia or poor-quality sleep

• Weakened immune function, leading to frequent illness

• Increased anxiety and irritability

• Elevated blood pressure and heart rate

These symptoms are often the result of the body’s "fight or flight" response, where stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline are released into the bloodstream. While this response is useful in the short term, chronic activation can lead to long-term health issues.

How Acupuncture Helps with Stress Relief

When it comes to managing stress, acupuncture works by stimulating certain points that help calm the nervous system and help the body to self regulate and move it into the parasympathetic “rest and digest” state. Several acupuncture points are particularly effective for stress relief:

• HT7: Located on the wrist, this point is often referred to as the "Spirit Gate" and is known for calming the mind and alleviating anxiety.

• Yintang: Found between the eyebrows, this point helps reduce tension in the head and can promote relaxation.

• PC6 : Situated on the inner forearm, this point is commonly used for emotional stress and anxiety. It helps relieve nausea and promotes a sense of calm.

• LV3: This point is great for reducing anger, irritability, and emotional stress by helping to balance liver Qi.

Through acupuncture, these points help activate the body's natural ability to relax, lower cortisol levels, and restore a sense of calm and equilibrium.

The Hormonal Effects of Stress and Acupuncture

Stress has a direct impact on your hormone levels, especially cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. When cortisol levels remain elevated over time, it can lead to hormonal imbalances, affecting everything from sleep patterns to metabolism. Acupuncture helps regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls the release of cortisol, and can thus help restore hormonal balance. 

Balance Maintenance Tips for Stress Management

In addition to acupuncture, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to maintain balance and manage stress effectively:

1. Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps release tension and regulate stress hormones.

2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness or meditation can help reduce the mental clutter that contributes to stress.

3. Adequate Sleep: Prioritize good sleep hygiene, aiming for 7-9 hours of quality rest each night.

4. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods can help support your body’s ability to manage stress.

5. Social Support: Connecting with loved ones can provide emotional support, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.

Scientific Support for Acupuncture and Stress Relief

Research continues to highlight the effectiveness of acupuncture for managing stress and promoting emotional well-being. A review by Bazzan et al. (2015) published in Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics examined the role of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in treating mood and anxiety disorders. The authors found that acupuncture, among other CAM therapies, can aid in managing stress, anxiety, and mood imbalances by targeting the body’s nervous system.

If you are noticing increased stress and what some additional support we are here to help! Please reach out our office with any questions or for more information. 

Acupuncture and Joint Health

Acupuncture for Joint Health

Acupuncture can be beneficial and effective in alleviating joint pain, reducing inflammation, and

help restoring movement in those with various kinds of arthritis and other joint-related

conditions.

Arthritis Types and How Acupuncture Helps

Arthritis is a broad term for conditions that affect the joints, and there are several types that

acupuncture can effectively treat, including:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): The most common form of arthritis, OA occurs when the cartilage

that cushions the joints deteriorates over time, causing pain and stiffness. Acupuncture

helps stimulate blood flow to the affected areas and encourages healing.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder, RA causes chronic inflammation

in the joints, leading to pain and deformities. Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation

and support the immune system.

• Gout: This form of arthritis occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, typically

causing intense pain in the big toe. Acupuncture helps improve circulation, reduce pain,

and promote detoxification.

• Psoriatic Arthritis: Linked to psoriasis, this condition causes both skin and joint

inflammation. Acupuncture can help reduce both symptoms of skin irritation and joint

pain by balancing the body's internal energy.

Pain Management: Targeting Joint Pain with Acupuncture

One of the most well-known benefits of acupuncture is its ability to alleviate pain. By inserting

very thin needles at specific points, acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins and other

natural pain-relieving chemicals. This can lead to a significant reduction in joint pain caused by

arthritis.

Acupuncture also helps regulate the body’s nervous system, reducing the perception of pain and

promoting a sense of relaxation.

Inflammation Reduction

Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of many types of arthritis, and acupuncture can be effective

in reducing this inflammation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture points are

selected based on their ability to balance the body's energy (Qi) and stimulate blood circulation

to areas of inflammation.

Acupuncture encourages the release of anti-inflammatory messengers, which help reduce

swelling and promote the healing of inflamed joints. This process not only relieves discomfort

but also potentially helps lessen long-term joint damage caused by prolonged inflammation.

Movement Restoration: Enhancing Joint Mobility

For individuals with arthritis, limited movement can significantly impact their quality of life.

Acupuncture can help restore flexibility and range of motion by promoting the flow of Qi and

increasing blood circulation to stiff, painful joints.

By relaxing tight muscles, reducing swelling, and improving circulation, acupuncture facilitates

smoother movement and reduces stiffness. People may notice improved mobility after a few

sessions, making acupuncture a valuable treatment for joint health and overall function.

Overall acupuncture can be helpful for pain management, inflammation/stress reduction, and

movement restoration.

Contact us today to learn more about acupuncture and how it may be able to help you. We are

here to help!

Answering Frequently Asked Questions: Dry Needling

Answering Frequently Asked Questions: Dry Needling

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique performed by trained healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists and chiropractors. It involves inserting thin, sterile needles into trigger points (knots in the muscle) or areas of tension to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and promote healing. The term "dry" refers to the fact that the needles don’t inject any substances—unlike hypodermic needles used in medicine.

What Does Dry Needling Do?

The primary goal of dry needling is to alleviate pain and restore function. By targeting trigger points, the needles help release tight muscle bands, decrease inflammation, and improve blood flow. This process promotes the body's natural healing mechanisms, leading to improved mobility and reduced discomfort.

Additionally, dry needling can stimulate the nervous system, interrupting pain signals to the brain and encouraging relaxation in overly tight muscles.

What Conditions Can Dry Needling Help With?

Dry needling is versatile and can address a wide range of conditions, including:

• Chronic pain (e.g., back pain, neck pain)

• Muscle tension and tightness

• Sports injuries (e.g., strains, sprains)

• Tendinitis (e.g., tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis)

• Headaches and migraines

• Extremity pain (e.g., hip, knee, shoulder pain)

• Sciatica

• Plantar fasciitis

Does Dry Needling Hurt?

Most people report minimal discomfort during a dry needling session. You might feel a slight prick as the needle is inserted, followed by a twitch or mild ache when the needle reaches the trigger point. These sensations are typically brief and are often followed by a sense of relief or relaxation.

The level of discomfort varies from person to person, but your provider will work to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

What Is the Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture?

While both dry needling and acupuncture use thin needles, the two practices differ in their purpose, philosophy, and application:

• Dry Needling: Rooted in modern Western medicine, it focuses on treating specific musculoskeletal issues by targeting trigger points and areas of tension.

• Acupuncture: Based on traditional Chinese medicine, it aims to balance the body’s energy (or “qi”) by stimulating specific points along meridians to promote overall health and well-being.

Although the techniques look similar, their goals and underlying principles are distinct.

Is Dry Needling Safe?

Yes, dry needling is considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed professional. The needles are sterile, single-use, and disposed of after each session to eliminate the risk of infection.

Mild side effects, such as soreness, bruising, or fatigue, are possible but typically resolve within a day or two. Your provider will review your medical history to ensure dry needling is appropriate for you and discuss any potential risks.

Please let us know if you have any additional questions!

Take care,

Dr. Gina

The Healing Practice of Mother Warming: A Postpartum Tradition

Mother warming is a postpartum treatment that supports recovery using moxibustion, a technique involving the burning of dried mugwort (Ai Ye/Artemisia). This gentle, warming therapy has been used to help nourish a new parent’s energy, promote healing, and restore balance after childbirth.

What is Mother Warming?

Mother warming focuses on applying heat to specific acupuncture points and areas of the body, particularly the lower abdomen or lower back. The warmth from moxibustion is believed to:

· Support the uterus: Encouraging the uterus to heal and return to its pre-pregnancy state.

· Boost circulation: Improving blood flow to enhance recovery.

· Restore energy (Qi): Replenishing the body's Qi and Yang, which may become depleted during childbirth.

· Relieve stress: Offering a calming and restorative effect, aiding emotional well-being.

When is Mother Warming Used?

Typically, mother warming is performed on day 4 or 5 after delivery. It’s a non-invasive way to gently ease the transition into postpartum life.

How is Moxibustion Applied?

A practitioner burns a moxa stick near the targeted area, allowing the soothing heat to penetrate the skin without direct contact. The warmth is pleasant and deeply relaxing. Often, a session is combined with other postpartum support strategies, such as acupuncture, for a holistic approach.

The Benefits of Mother Warming

1. Supports Postpartum Healing: By stimulating circulation and boosting Qi, it enhances the body’s natural recovery.

2. Relieves Aches and Pains: Particularly effective for back pain, pelvic discomfort, or feelings of coldness common after birth.

3. Improves Emotional Health: Warmth from moxa can be grounding, helping parents to feel centered and cared for.

4. Promotes Milk Supply: It may help enhance lactation by encouraging Qi flow.

Mother Warming: A Self-Care Ritual

While traditionally performed by a practitioner, with proper guidance, it’s also a practice that can be incorporated into a self-care routine at home. However, it’s important to ensure safety and proper technique, particularly if using moxa on sensitive areas.

Embrace Postpartum Balance

Whether you’re navigating your recovery or supporting someone you love, this practice is a gentle reminder of the importance of warmth, care, and restoration during this transformative time.

Please contact our office with any questions or for more information.

Acupuncture for Skin Health: Combatting Summer Sun Damage

Summer is a time for outdoor fun, beach days, and soaking up the sun. However, while the sun's warmth is enjoyable, it can also cause damage to your skin. Sun exposure, especially without proper protection, can lead to sunburn, premature aging, dark spots, and even increase the risk of skin cancer. If you've spent a lot of time under the sun this summer, you might be wondering how to repair and rejuvenate your skin. Acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a natural and holistic approach to restoring your skin's health after sun exposure.

How Does Acupuncture Benefit Skin Health?

1. Improving Blood Circulation:

- Acupuncture enhances blood flow to the skin, ensuring that it receives essential nutrients and oxygen. This increased circulation helps to repair damaged skin cells and promote the growth of new, healthy cells.

2. Reducing Inflammation:

- Excessive sun exposure can lead to inflammation, resulting in redness, irritation, and even long-term damage. Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation by balancing the body's internal systems and encouraging the release of natural anti-inflammatory substances.

3. Promoting Collagen Production:

- Collagen is a crucial protein that maintains skin elasticity and prevents wrinkles. Acupuncture stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage, leaving your skin looking youthful and vibrant.

4. Detoxifying the Skin:

- By promoting lymphatic drainage and enhancing the body's detoxification processes, acupuncture can help to clear out toxins that have accumulated in the skin due to sun exposure and environmental factors. This detoxification process can reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone.

Acupuncture Techniques for Skin Rejuvenation

1. Facial Acupuncture:

- Often referred to as "cosmetic acupuncture," facial acupuncture focuses on specific points on the face to enhance skin health. This technique can improve skin tone, reduce fine lines, and promote a healthy glow.

2. Body Acupuncture:

- Body acupuncture targets specific points on the body to address underlying imbalances that may contribute to skin issues. By treating the root cause of skin problems, body acupuncture can enhance overall skin health and prevent future damage.

Combining Acupuncture with Other Skincare Practices

While acupuncture can be helpful in promoting skin health, combining it with other skincare practices can maximize its benefits. Consider the following tips:

- Use Sunscreen: Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before going outdoors to protect your skin from further damage.

- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

- Nourish Your Skin: Use gentle, natural skincare products that support skin repair and rejuvenation.

- Eat a Healthy Diet: Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support skin health and overall well-being.

Acupuncture offers a natural and effective way to combat summer sun damage and promote healthy, radiant skin. Whether you're dealing with sunburn, premature aging, or simply want to enhance your skin's appearance, acupuncture can be an excellent addition to your skincare routine.

Please contact the office with any questions!

Take care!

How Acupuncture Can Help You Get a Better Night's Rest

Are you struggling to get a good night's sleep? You're not alone. Many people worldwide suffer from insomnia and other sleep disorders, turning to various treatments to find relief. Acupuncture can be one of those things that may help those who are struggling to sleep. Let's dive into how acupuncture can help you achieve the restful sleep you deserve.

How Acupuncture Can Improve Your Sleep

1. Regulates Sleep Hormones:

   - Acupuncture may influence the production and release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and melatonin, which are crucial for regulating sleep cycles. Increased levels of these hormones can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep.

2. Reduces Stress and Anxiety:

   - Stress and anxiety are significant contributors to insomnia. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and helps calm the nervous system, making it easier for you to unwind and drift off to sleep.

3. Relieves Pain:

   - Chronic pain is a common sleep disruptor. By alleviating pain, acupuncture can help you sleep more comfortably and wake up feeling more refreshed.

4. Balances Energy Flow:

   - According to Traditional Chinese medicine, a balanced flow of Qi is essential for good health. Acupuncture helps restore this balance, which can improve overall well-being and sleep quality.

Scientific Support for Acupuncture and Sleep

Numerous studies have explored the effects of acupuncture on sleep. A review of randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture significantly improved sleep quality and duration in patients with insomnia compared to placebo treatments.

Research suggests that acupuncture may increase the production of endogenous melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Additionally, it may modulate the autonomic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the time it takes to fall asleep. 

Acupuncture can be a valuable tool in your quest for better sleep. By regulating sleep hormones, reducing stress, relieving pain, and balancing energy flow, this ancient practice offers a holistic approach to improving sleep quality. If you're tired of tossing and turning, acupuncture might be a helpful for you!

Let us know if you have any questions!

Dr. Alex

1. Fei-Yi Zhao a b, a, b, et al. Can acupuncture improve objective sleep indices in patients with primary insomnia? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Medicine. February 2, 2021. Accessed May 26, 2024. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945721000708.

Alleviating Allergies: The Role of Acupuncture in Finding Relief

As the seasons change, allergies for folks can come along with it. There are many things that can help reduce allergy symptoms. Among them is acupuncture. Acupuncture and acupressure can be another tool in your toolbox help reduce symptoms.

The Role of Acupuncture:

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and restore balance. In acupuncture allergies can be seen as some king of imbalance in the and its relationship with the environment.

The goal of acupuncture aims to help rebalance the body to help alleviate allergy symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Allergies:

1. Symptom Relief: Acupuncture can provide relief from allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, sinus pressure, headache, sneezing, and itchy eyes. It can help the body clear out by helping increasing circulation to the area.

2. Reduced Inflammation: Allergic reactions often involve inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce inflammation by promoting the release of anti-inflammatory substances in the body, helping to alleviate swelling and congestion.

3. Immune Function: Acupuncture may be able to help moderate the body’s immune response. Possibly making it better equipped to handle allergens without overreacting. By supporting overall immune function, acupuncture can help reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions.

Acupressure Points

Here are some points you can massage that may help alleviate your symptoms.

To stimulate these acupressure points, use your fingertips or thumbs to apply steady pressure for about 30-60 seconds. You can also gently massage the points in a circular motion.

1. UB2 : Located on the face, just above the inner corner of the eye, in a small depression on the inside of the eyebrow. Apply firm pressure to this point for a few minutes to help relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

2. LI20 : Located on either side of the nose, in the hollows next to the nostrils. Stimulating LI20 with gentle pressure can help clear nasal congestion and relieve sinus pain.

3. LI4: Located on the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger, LI4 is a commonly used acupressure point for treating various conditions, including allergies. It helps with things going on related to the head.

4. LI11: Located on the outer part of the elbow crease. It can help reduce inflammation

5. LU7. Located on the arm, about 1.5 inches above the wrist crease in a small depression along the radius bone. 

It can help clear lungs of mucus, improve circulation through the lungs and nasal passages, and boosts overall lung health. This point also connects to the neck and can relieve neck tension. 

6. ST36 : Located on the lower leg, about four finger widths below the knee and one finger width toward the outside of the leg. ST36 may help for supporting the immune system and alleviating allergy symptoms.

Please let us know if you have any questions or if you are interested in learning more about how acupuncture and chiropractic care can help with allergies.

Feel free to contact our office at 216-952-3830 or info@clechiropractic.co

How Does Acupuncture Help PCOS?

September is PCOS Awareness Month!

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a condition due to insulin resistance.  Women with PCOS experience a hormonal imbalance as insulin stimulates secretion of testosterone by the ovaries.   Diet and stress are major risk factors to PCOS.  Diets high in refined carbohydrates (starchy, sugary foods) can lead to insulin resistance.  When we are in a state of chronic stress, we pump out a lot of cortisol regularly.  Cortisol raises our blood sugar and requires out body to produce insulin to manage it. 

Symptoms of PCOS can include weight gain, irregular periods, unwanted facial hair, hair thinning, hair loss, acne, and infertility. 

Metformin is frequently prescribed to patients with PCOS.  Metformin helps get blood sugar under control.  However, there are ways to regulate your blood sugar with diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes.

How does acupuncture fit in?

Regular acupuncture sessions can reduce testosterone, regulate ovulation (and regulate menstruation), and reduce stress.  Acupuncture is recommended for 3 months prior to TTC to be more effective. 

When I am working with anyone with hormonal imbalance or trying to conceive I will order labs, including hormones on cycle day 3 and cycle day 21.  These labs include full thyroid panel, hormone levels, vitamin D, and maybe a few others depending on your history.  Why CD3 and CD21?  Well, looking at CD3 of your menstrual cycle helps us determine the “baseline” of your hormones.  On CD21 (or 7 days past ovulation), we look at progesterone to see if you have ovulated.  Depending on your labs, an individualized supplementation plan will be recommended.

Reducing environmental hormonal exposure and making changes to your diet have been also shown in research to be very effective in managing PCOS and improving overall health.

Questions?  Email me!

In health,
Dr. Candace

Postpartum Care: Coping with Body Image

Postpartum is a period of adjustment and healing for the mother. During this time, you will bond with your baby but you may also experience body changes.  Body pain, urinary incontinence and/or muscle tension during your fourth trimester can be present. The cause? It could have been a strained muscles during delivery, pelvic floor muscle weakness, pregnancy hormones (loose ligaments), breastfeeding positions, holding/lifting baby and core muscles instability/weakness. 

After a few weeks, some of these issues may resolve. But what if you are still suffering from back pain for weeks (even months!) after giving birth? Experiencing urinary incontinence when exercising, laughing or running? Feeling constant body tension and anxiety? If you say yes to any of these questions,  know that you are not alone.

It is quite common to experience some of these symptoms after either vaginal or cesarean birth.  However, it does not mean that it is normal and that you have to deal with it because you just had a baby. Know that you do have options! 

The following treatments can help you make your postpartum journey more enjoyable:

• Chiropractic care - chiropractic adjustments restore joint mobility reducing restrictions in your spine and pelvis relieving any nerve pressure present. When your body is working  and moving properly, it can speed your recovery and healing.  This is a plus during the fourth trimester!

• Massage therapy - postpartum massages may help to relax your muscles, increase blood circulation and lower stress hormones, bringing stress relief. Massage can help during your emotional transition bringing relaxation to your life. 

• Acupuncture - acupuncture treatment can be beneficial with stress management, pain relief, promotion of healthy digestion and improved quality of sleep. 

• Pelvic floor PT  - Specialized PT can assess for any pelvic floor muscle tightness or weakness that can be causing your urinary incontinence and back pain. Pelvic PT will guide you in the right direction. 

Reach out if you are experiencing pain, discomfort or just looking for additional postpartum care information. Your body may need a little push to get back in balance. We can help! 

Cleveland Chiropractic & Integrative Health Center

(216) 952-3830

www.clechiropractic.com

Acupuncture for IVF

If you are reading this, I’m sorry.  You were brought here for a reason.  Looking for more answers, looking for hope, maybe looking to “do everything you can do”.  This may be your first round of IVF or this may be your last round.  Every couple or person undergoing IVF does it for a different reason.  You (and your partner) may have been diagnosed with unexplained infertility or an ovarian disorder, you may be working with a sperm or egg donor, you may have a genetic disorder and are planning to test your embryos.  Whatever brought you here, I want to thank you for being here and considering alternative medicine.  This journey is not easy and IVF is not easy.  I want to remember that you are strong.  I hope this blog can provide information on acupuncture and Chinese medicine methodology so that you can have a better understanding on what to expect during acupuncture treatments and can decide if acupuncture is something you would like to incorporate into your treatment plan. 

How can acupuncture help?

Acupuncture is beneficial before and after both an egg retrieval and embryo transfer.  It can improve overall fertility, regulate hormones, and normalize the menstrual cycle. 

·      Acupuncture can help improve blood flow to the pelvis and reproductive organs. 

·      Undergoing fertility treatments is stressful: from the appointments, to the medications, to the constant fluctuations of emotions, and the financial burden, acupuncture can help your body respond to stress.  It helps your muscles relax, it slows your breathing, and it calms the mind.  Sometimes during treatments, some people are so relaxed they fall asleep.

·      Acupuncture improves the changes of having a baby:  we are looking at more than just getting you pregnant.  We want you to bring a baby home.  Acupuncture doesn’t stop after the embryo transfer. 

What does an initial acupuncture appointment for preconception look like?

An initial acupuncture appointment for preconception will typically last about 1.5-2 hours.  Your practitioner will want an in depth understanding of your medical history and fertility journey.  Your provider will use visual inspection, feel your pulse, and look at your tongue in their assessment.  A Chinese medicine diagnosis will be given based on your history and examination. The acupuncture needles may be placed in your arms, legs, head and face, abdomen, back, and even your ears depending on your Chinese medicine diagnosis.

What do follow up treatments look like?

Expect your entire appointment to last about 1 hour.  Your acupuncturist will likely ask about any symptoms you are experiencing, check your pulse and tongue while they perform a visual assessment, and then he or she will insert the needles!  The needles are retained about 30 minutes and then your practitioner will remove them and discuss any of your concerns.  No two women are the same.  Even when working with two women, both diagnosed with diminished ovarian reserve from a Western Medicine doctor, their acupuncture treatments may look very different.  When supporting women using the Chinese medicine methodology, many providers will give women dietary recommendations, lifestyle recommendations, and supplementation as this takes a whole systems approach.  

What will my fertility doctor (or reproductive endocrinologist) say about this?

Honestly, it depends on the provider.  I have had some patients have their RE say they are “wasting their money”, but can “do what they want” and I have seen other RE’s strongly encourage their patients to do acupuncture.  Some fertility clinics have an acupuncturist on site that patients work directly with.  Over the last few years, however, I have been noticing more and more RE’s suggest acupuncture and other types of alternative medicine for their patients.

Quick Details:

·      Dr. Candace prefers acupuncture weekly leading up to IUI or IVF.

·      She recommends acupuncture before and after IUI or IVF.  

·      Dr. Candace recommends continuing acupuncture throughout the first trimester.

Stay turned for Part 2: Acupuncture to support early pregnancy.

Candace Gesicki is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Diplomate of the American Board of Chiropractic Acupuncture.  She has been supporting women .  She is offering free 15 minute phone consultations for those wondering how acupuncture can support them on their fertility journey.  Email Dr. Candace directly to schedule a phone consult or schedule your initial appointment online.