Treating Achilles Tendonitis with Acupuncture

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Achilles tendonitis can be an incredibly painful and debilitating condition, affecting individuals of all ages and activity levels. Achilles tendonitis is characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often resulting from overuse, improper footwear, or sudden increases in physical activity (and believe it or not from Cipro related antibiotics!)  Many of my patients are turning to acupuncture for relief. 

Western medicine suggests that acupuncture  stimulates the nervous system, promoting the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, such as endorphins. In Chinese Medicine, we go beyond that and figure out why someone’s constitution may lead to very tight tendons.

Acupuncture aims to address both the underlying inflammation and the associated pain. By targeting specific acupuncture points along the affected meridians, we seek to reduce inflammation, promote tissue healing, and alleviate discomfort.

1. Pain Relief:

Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to pain perception and the affected meridians, acupuncture helps dull pain signals associated with Achilles tendonitis. This natural analgesic effect provides much-needed relief to individuals experiencing discomfort.

2. Inflammation Reduction:

Inflammation is a hallmark of Achilles tendonitis. Acupuncture can help modulate the body's inflammatory response by promoting the release of anti-inflammatory substances. By targeting acupuncture points associated with immune regulation and tissue healing, acupuncture assists in reducing inflammation along the Achilles tendon, facilitating the healing process.

3. Improved Blood Circulation:

Adequate blood circulation is crucial for tissue repair and regeneration. Acupuncture enhances blood flow to the affected area by dilating blood vessels and promoting micro-circulation. This increased blood supply delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the injured Achilles tendon, accelerating healing and reducing recovery time.

4. Muscle Relaxation:

Tension and tightness in surrounding the gastrocnemius, soleus and posterior tibialis muscles often exacerbate Achilles tendonitis symptoms. I will often release these muscles with trigger point (dry needling) or add electric stimulation to the points.  This helps ease the tightness in those muscles, especially the Soleus which connects to the achilles heel.

A 2018 study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese herbal medicine effectively reduced pain and improved function in patients with Achilles tendonitis. Another study in the European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine demonstrated that acupuncture provided significant pain relief and improved mobility in individuals with chronic Achilles tendonitis.

During your session, I will conduct a thorough evaluation of your condition and medical history. 

Acupuncture can provide pain relief and promote healing, it should not replace other essential components of treatment, such as rest, proper footwear and possibly PT.  A comprehensive approach yields the best results for managing Achilles tendonitis effectively.

As always, seek a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) for the best acupuncture treatments. 

Treating Sciatica with Acupuncture

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Sciatica, characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, can be an excruciating condition that significantly affects one's waking and sleeping life.  While conventional treatments like pain medications and physical therapy are often prescribed, many individuals may add acupuncture to alleviate their symptoms. 

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down through the hips and buttocks and branches out into each leg, becomes compressed or irritated. This compression can result from various factors, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or even muscle spasms. The hallmark symptom of sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down the back of the leg, sometimes the calf and foot, often accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness. In some cases, it can affect the side of the leg and even the front and move into different areas of the foot and toes.

From a Western perspective, acupuncture is believed to modulate pain perception, promote relaxation, and trigger the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins and serotonin. 

How Acupuncture Addresses Sciatica:

1. Pain and Stress Relief

Acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. By targeting specific acupuncture points associated with pain modulation, acupuncture helps to alleviate the discomfort associated with sciatica.

2. Reduced Inflammation

Studies have shown that acupuncture may have anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. By reducing inflammation around the compressed sciatic nerve, acupuncture can help to alleviate pain and promote healing.

3. Muscle Relaxation

Sciatica often involves muscle tension and spasms, which can exacerbate pain and discomfort. Acupuncture, especially techniques such as trigger point (dry needling) or acupuncture with electric stim targets specific points associated with muscle relaxation, helping to alleviate tension, improve blood flow and improve flexibility in the affected area.

4. Improved Nerve Function

Acupuncture may help to improve nerve conduction and reduce nerve sensitivity, which can contribute to the alleviation of sciatic pain and associated symptoms like tingling and numbness.

Several studies have investigated the efficacy of acupuncture in managing sciatica, with promising results. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Pain Research concluded that acupuncture provided significant pain relief and improved functional outcomes in individuals with sciatica. Additionally, research published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that acupuncture combined with conventional treatments yielded better results than conventional treatments alone.

During your acupuncture session for sciatica, I will conduct a thorough orthopedic assessment of your symptoms and medical history. This determines which points to do based on your individual needs. Remember, each person’s sciatica will present differently, or have a different cause. Like other acupuncture treatments, we aim to target the root of the problem which is different for everyone. Sessions typically last between 45 to 60 minutes, and the frequency and duration of treatment will vary depending on the severity of your symptoms and your body's response to acupuncture.

Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to managing sciatica, addressing both the physical symptoms and underlying imbalances within the body.  If you're considering acupuncture as a treatment option for sciatica, be sure to consult with a License Acupuncturist (L.Ac.)  to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.

Tinnitus - A Tough Nut to Crack

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Tinnitus, characterized by the perception of ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears, can significantly impact one's quality of life. I’m seeing an increasing number of people who have tinnitus and it can be exhausting to hear the constant ring.  Many new patients are coming in to explore acupuncture, to alleviate their tinnitus symptoms and I’ve had mixed results.

Here’s what I have found through my years of clinical experience of what the causes of tinnitus are:

1.  TMJ

   Jaw pain is often associated with tinnitus and will cause so much tightness around the temporal and jaw muscles that it literally puts pressure on the ears. This is an easy fix with acupuncture, but having a mouth guard (that fits properly!) can make a big difference.

2. Exposure to loud noises

   Depending on how long ago this happened, it can be treated pretty easily. If given acupuncture and electrical stimulation, often accompanied by homeopathy, I’ve seen good results.

3. High Blood pressure

   Patients with high blood pressure may have tinnitus as a result. By treating the high blood pressure with acupuncture, tinnitus wlil diminish

4. Lyme disease

   This is a tough one to treat, especially if the underlying Lyme is not dealt with. I have known people to lose their hearing altogether as a result of Lyme. It’s imperative, if you’ve been bitten by a tick, to get treated as soon as possible. Acupuncture can then help restore those nerves with electric stim.

5. Stress

   Yes, stress almost ALWAYS makes the ringing louder. In any of the above cases, I’ll treat the autonomic nervous system to go from fight or flight, to rest and digest and patients report a diminishing of ringing.  It’s so important to have some daily practice to lessen the stress response.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, or "qi." According to traditional Chinese medicine, imbalances in the body's energy can lead to various health issues, including tinnitus. By restoring the balance of qi, acupuncture aims to promote overall well-being and alleviate symptoms.

Research studies suggest potential benefits. Acupuncture may help improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and release tension in the muscles around the ears and head. Additionally, proponents of acupuncture believe that it can positively influence the nervous system, potentially affecting how the brain perceives tinnitus sounds.

Here is a great study on acupuncture for tinnitus: Neuropuncture, an Effective Treatment Method for Patients with Subjective Tinnitus Accompanied with Hearing Loss: Case Reports | Medical Acupuncture

Acupuncturists may focus on specific points related to the ear, head, and neck regions to address tinnitus symptoms. These points are thought to be connected to the flow of energy and blood circulation, promoting a harmonious balance within the body. Common acupuncture points for tinnitus include those around the ear, as well as points on the scalp, wrists, and feet.

While some individuals report positive experiences with acupuncture for tinnitus relief, it's essential to note that results can vary from person to person. Some find significant improvement in their symptoms, while others may experience only temporary relief. As with any alternative therapy, it’s important to let your acupuncturist know what your medical history is, including medications taken which may play a role.

While acupuncture shows promise in the realm of tinnitus treatment, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness and mechanisms. As I’ve said, I’ve had mixed results. As with any alternative therapy, it's crucial to approach acupuncture with an open mind and know that it’s not just one magic treatment that will cure tinnitus. It’s often a longer process. Make sure you see a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) to ensure the best treatment.

Acupuncture Proven to Alleviate Headaches and Migraines

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Headaches and migraines are common conditions that can significantly impact one's quality of life. If you’ve ever had a migraine, you know how debilitating it can be. While conventional treatments often involve medications, many individuals are exploring alternative therapies like acupuncture to manage and prevent these debilitating headaches, or use it in conjunction with conventional treatments. The research shows that acupuncture for these patients have better outcomes than those who use conventional medicine alone.

How Acupuncture Works for Headaches and Migraines:

1. Getting to the Root of the Problem:

For every headache that comes into my office, there is a different treatment. This is because we get to the root of the issue and each person’s headache may be coming from different systems or causes. I will often not only feel what’s happening in the head and neck, but may check some digestive reflexes in the abdomen as a cause. Or maybe it is a hormonal imbalance. Treating the underlying cause of symptoms is what we do best in acupuncture.

2. Endorphin Release:

Acupuncture may stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. This can help reduce the perception of pain and alleviate headache symptoms. This works almost instantly when I put the needles in strategic points for headaches.

3. Nervous System Regulation:

The insertion of acupuncture needles may influence the autonomic nervous system, which plays a role in pain perception. Getting my patients to go from “fight or flight” to “rest and digest” often breaks the cycle of headaches, reducing the frequency of them.

4. Releasing Tight Neck and Shoulder Muscles:

Trigger point induced headaches are easy to clear with dry-needling acupuncture. This is one area that I specialize in.

Acupuncture is at least as effective as prophylactic drug therapy for migraine and it is safe, long-lasting and cost-effective says this research article: The role of acupuncture in the treatment of migraine - PMC

Practical Aspects of Acupuncture Treatment:

1. Consultation and Diagnosis:

Before beginning acupuncture treatment, individuals typically undergo a consultation with an acupuncturist. The acupuncturist will assess the individual's health history, lifestyle, and specific headache symptoms to tailor the treatment.

2. Safety Considerations:

Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and qualified practitioner. It's essential to choose a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac) and communicate openly about any concerns or medical conditions.

Acupuncture is an ancient practice that is promising for patients suffering with headaches. As with any medical intervention, it's crucial to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate and personalized treatment plan for the management of headaches and migraines. 

With Winter, comes unique injuries. Sprains, strains and even fractures.. Here’s what Acupuncture can do for you!

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As the winter season blankets the world in frosty landscapes, it also brings its fair share of challenges, including the increased risk of certain injuries. Slippery sidewalks, winter sports mishaps, and cold-related conditions can contribute to various winter injuries. In this article, we'll explore some common winter injuries and delve into how acupuncture, a traditional healing practice, can offer relief and aid in recovery.

COMMON WINTER INJURIES

1. Slips and Falls: 

Icy surfaces can lead to slips and falls, resulting in injuries such as sprains, strains, and fractures. Make sure to wear Crampons on your boots when walking in these icy conditions! Amazon has many to choose from.

2. Winter Sports Injuries:

Enthusiasts participating in activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating may face injuries ranging from minor bruises to more severe strains and fractures.

3. Cold-Related Injuries:

Exposure to cold temperatures (I’m seeing this especially for winter outdoor joggers) can lead to conditions like torn calf muscles, strained achilles tendons and even Bell’s Palsy!

HOW ACUPUNCTURE CAN HELP

1. Pain Management:

Acupuncture is renowned for its ability to alleviate pain. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to the injured area (not just where it hurts, but even distal points - away from the pain) can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with winter injuries.

2. Inflammation Reduction:

Acupuncture has anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in minimizing swelling and promoting a faster healing process. Liniments and arnica ointment I use during your session will also work wonders for this!

3. Muscle Relaxation:

For injuries involving muscle strains or tension, acupuncture along with heat, promotes muscle relaxation, enhancing flexibility and reducing stiffness. 

4. Improved Circulation:

Acupuncture enhances blood flow, facilitating the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissues, crucial for the healing process.

Even though we’ve finally been blessed with some snow, the ice makes it a little treacherous out there. Be sure to have the right gear on and make sure you’re fully warmed up before tackling shoveling that driveway or walkway. Make sure you’re using your full body, knees bent and hinging at the waist and using your core when doing outdoor activities.

Evidence suggests that acupuncture can be a valuable complementary therapy for managing winter injuries, promoting faster recovery and improved overall well-being. If you've experienced a winter injury, consider exploring the benefits of acupuncture as part of your comprehensive recovery plan and always seek a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) to insure the best outcomes.

Navigating Dry January with Acupuncture Support - A Ridgefield Woman’s Success

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As the new year unfolds, many individuals embark on a journey of self-improvement, often marked by resolutions to lead healthier and happier lives. One increasingly popular resolution is participating in Dry January, a month-long commitment to abstain from alcohol. While the benefits of reducing alcohol consumption are numerous, it can be a challenge for many. Here’s how acupuncture can help you reset this button and kickstart a healthier lifestyle.

For many individuals, abstaining from alcohol can be challenging due to withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and the emotional aspects of breaking a habit. Additionally, the body may experience changes as it adjusts to a new routine, leading to stress and discomfort.

As acupuncture works so well to detox the body, our tendency is to not want to feel the unpleasant side-effects, but acupuncture can help your body move through that more quickly. For one of my patients, this is how it worked so well and after feeling so much “cleaner” as she described it, after her session, she “didn’t want to pollute it.”

1. Stress Reduction:

Acupuncture has been found to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals facing the emotional challenges of abstaining from alcohol. My patient from Ridgefield was extremely stressed leading up to the holiday, and she was using more alcohol than usual. Hitting the reset button twice this month with acupuncture has already changed her behavior and made it easier to abstain. 

2. Craving Management:

Acupuncture may help in managing cravings by affecting the brain's neural pathways related to addiction. The stimulation of specific acupuncture points is believed to influence neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and reward, potentially reducing the intensity of cravings. Many of you know I use auricular acupuncture which are specific points on the ear for detox and cravings as well as to balance the vagus nerve. These points work immediately as patients report feeling a deep rest and reset during and after their treatments.

3. Balancing Energy:

Traditional Chinese medicine views addiction as a manifestation of imbalances in the body's energy. Acupuncture aims to restore this balance, supporting the body in its natural healing process and helping individuals navigate the physical and emotional changes associated with sobriety.

4. Improved Sleep:

Sleep disturbances are common when using alcohol as well ass withdrawal. Acupuncture has been shown to improve sleep quality by regulating the body's circadian rhythm and promoting relaxation.

Embarking on Dry January is a commendable step towards a healthier lifestyle, and seeking support from various modalities, including acupuncture, can really help! While acupuncture is not a standalone solution for overcoming alcohol dependence, it can serve as a valuable complementary tool, providing physical and emotional support during the challenging transition to a sober lifestyle. As always, consider acupuncture as part of a holisitic approach and always seek a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) to insure the best treatment.

Beating the Post Holiday January Blues - Resetting with Acupuncture

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As the holiday season comes to an end, many people find themselves grappling with the January blues—a phenomenon characterized by feelings of fatigue, low energy, and a general sense of post-holiday letdown. If you're seeking a natural and holistic approach to lift your spirits and regain balance, acupuncture might be the key to unlocking a renewed sense of well-being.

The January blues are often attributed to a combination of factors, including the end of the festive season, colder weather, eating foods that aren’t the healthiest, and a return to work.  While for some, getting back to routine can be welcome, I know for myself and many patients, the transition from a more social holiday period to the more mundane and routine aspects of daily life can contribute to a dip in mood.

HERE’S HOW ACUPUNCTURE CAN HELP:

1. resetting your blood sugar levels:

The “sugar” reflex is showing up a lot this week! Specifically, the Pancreas/Spleen channel, which, when off balance can cause a number of symptoms such as mood swings, muscle spasms, digestive issues and a suppressed immune system. 

  2. stress Reduction:

January blues are often linked to increased stress levels. Acupuncture has been shown to activate the body's natural relaxation response, promoting a sense of calm and reducing stress hormones. Going back to work and being on a tight schedule again can be a trigger after the holidays for some people. This angst of Holidays or post Holidays can lead to dread.

3. Mood Enhancement:

Studies have shown that acupuncture helps the pituitary release neurotransmitters, such as endorphins and serotonin, which play a crucial role in regulating mood. By promoting the flow of these "feel-good" chemicals, acupuncture can help alleviate feelings of sadness and promote a more positive outlook on life.

4. Energy Boost:

Low energy and fatigue are common symptoms of the January blues. Acupuncture aims to rebalance the body's energy pathways, addressing fatigue and promoting an overall sense of vitality. Many of my patients report increased energy levels and improved focus after their acupuncture sessions.

5. Sleep Improvement:

Disrupted sleep patterns such as going to bed late and waking up late during the Holidays can throw us off, exacerbating feelings of lethargy and irritability. Acupuncture has been shown to regulate the sleep-wake cycle, helping individuals achieve better quality sleep. By addressing underlying issues such as insomnia or restless sleep, acupuncture can contribute to a more restful night's sleep. Trying to get right back to your regular sleep habits will help!

If you're looking for a natural and holistic approach to combat the January blues, acupuncture may offer the relief you seek. By addressing the root causes of stress, fatigue, and low mood, acupuncture aims to restore balance to the body and mind. 

As always, make sure you see a qualified Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) to explore the potential benefits of this ancient healing practice and embark on a journey towards a brighter and more balanced January!

The Benefits of Acupuncture for Essential Tremor - A New Milford Man’s experience

Essential tremor is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary shaking or trembling, typically in the hands, but it can also affect other parts of the body. Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese medical practice, involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow or Qi (pronounced "chee"). Some of my patients have experienced benefits.

I’m writing this today because a new patient, after his first session, came and said the acupuncture treatments were “life changing.” How wonderful to work with someone who works with his hands, help him play the banjo and get back to his wood-working again!! He continues to get treated and has reported improvement after each session.

Here are potential benefits associated with acupuncture for essential tremor:

1. Symptom Reduction: Some individuals with essential tremor have reported a reduction in the severity of their tremors following acupuncture treatments. Acupuncture may help modulate neural activity and reduce the hyperactivity of certain brain regions associated with tremors.

2. Improved Quality of Life: Acupuncture may not only address the physical symptoms but also contribute to an improved overall quality of life for individuals with essential tremor. This was a game changer for my patient from New Milford. He is now able to do his very detailed wood-working pieces and get back to playing the banjo!

3. Stress and Anxiety Reduction:  Stress definitely makes tremors worse. Acupuncture is known for its potential to reduce stress and anxiety. Stress can exacerbate essential tremor symptoms, and acupuncture may help manage stress levels, potentially leading to a reduction in tremor severity.

4. Balancing Nervous system:  By stimulating specific acupuncture points, practitioners aim to restore balance and harmony, which could positively influence neurological conditions like essential tremor.

5. Complementary Approach: Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments for essential tremor. It may not replace medications or other interventions but could provide additional support in managing symptoms. Some patients choose to treat it solely alternatively.

6. Individualized Treatment: Acupuncture treatments are often tailored to the individual, taking into account the person's overall health, symptoms, and constitution. This personalized approach may be beneficial for individuals with essential tremor, as the severity and presentation of symptoms can vary.

The response to acupuncture can vary among individuals. Essential tremor is different from Parkinson’s disease and easier to treat. Getting to the root of the problem is what we do in Chinese Medicine and treatment may be on-going, but when a patient like this comes in after one treatment, I’m over the moon! Seeing a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) will ensure you get the best quality treatment.