Alban Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs Clinic, New York City
Archive for the ‘Acupressure’ Category
Acupuncture Stimulates the Body to Heal Itself
Aug 24, 2009
This is the second in a series of articles explaining what is acupuncture and how it works.
Chinese medicine believes in the body’s power to heal itself. As clinicians, we remove the imbalances that are keeping you from being healthy.
Interestingly, modern acupuncture research is beginning to show how it actual does to stimulate the body’s own power to heal itself. The acupuncture needle does not inject any medicine, nor is it coated. It is simply reprogramming the body to be healthy again.
The research is still young and we don’t know everything. It is probably a complex series of events which occur in many systems across the body. But we do know that it works to regulate the nervous, endocrine, and the immune system. We also think that it works on a cellular level to influence intercellular communication and regeneration.
The brain and
nervous system
Using a type of brain scanner called an fMRI, scientists have shown that acupuncture regulates pain centers in the brain.1 When there is chronic pain, the brain can get stuck in an unhealthy pattern of pain and illness. For example in back pain, your back can be healed, but the brain remembers the pain and still feels it. The acupuncture helps to reset this pattern as a way of reteaching the body to be healthy.
Although not fully understood, acupuncture also has been shown to affect the release of many neurotransmitters such as opoids, endorphins, and endocannaboids that regulate pain, emotion, and possibly help with addiction.
Hormonal level
It has also been suggested that acupuncture can help regulate hormones. This is because we know it works great for conditions like PCOS, hot flashes, diabetes and infertility. In one study, electroacupuncture was shown to increase estradiol and other hormones in rats who had their ovaries removed.2 This suggests that electroacupuncture stimulates the hypothalamus to release the hormones that help to treat infertility.
Cellular level
Healing also occurs at the place where the needle is inserted, on a cellular level. The surrounding connective tissue cells actually grabs hold of the needle and expands.3 Some scientists believe this begins the replication and repair of the cells around the needle.
This needles grasp by the cells also represents the beginning of the communication within the acupuncture channels and may signal that the channels are alternative communication system through the connective tissue.
Immune System
The immune system is tricky. Without it, we could not live. But often it can overreact and attack ourselves, causing autoimmune conditions like asthma, allergies, and eczema. Acupuncture may help to down regulate the overactive immune system as well as give a boost to those with poor immune systems.
In one study, electroacupuncture was shown to lower the number of inflammatory cells in asthmatic rats compared to placebo acupuncture. It also lowered the number of cytokines, which are proteins that signal the inflammatory reaction.4 In another rat study, electroacupuncture to the point ST 36 showed to decrease inflammation through release of opioids.5
This shows that acupuncture has both a analgesic effect and an anti-inflammatory effect. This is good news, because so many disorders with pain also have significant inflammation.
A Glimpse into the Research
This is a glimpse of what modern research is explaining about acupuncture. There is still a lot more to learn, but what we know is really exciting.
In the next post I will explain acupuncture theory of channels and meridians.
Read more about acupuncture and…
Images: Wikipedia, Wikipedia, Wikipedia
References
¹ Napadow, V. Kettner N., Liu J. Et. al. Hypothalamus and Amygdala Response to Acupuncture Stimuli in Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. Pain. 2007; (130): 254-266.
2. Zhao H, Tian Z, Feng Y, Chen B. Circulating estradiol and hypothalamic corticotrophin releasing hormone enhances along with time after ovariectomy in rats: Effects of electroacupuncture. Neuropeptides. 2005; (39): 433–438.
3. Langevin HM, Churchill DL, Wu J. Et. al. Evidence of Connective Tissue Involvement in Acupuncture. FASEB Journal. April 10, 2002. Published Online.
4. Carneiro ER, Et. Al. Effect of Electroacupuncture on Bronchial Asthma Induced by Ovalbumin in Rats. JACM. Volume 11, Number 1, 2005, pp. 127–134.
5. Kim HW, Et. Al.The Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Low- and High-Frequency Electroacupuncture Are Mediated by Peripheral Opioids in a Mouse Air Pouch Inflammation Model. JACM. Volume 12, Number 1, 2006, pp. 39–44.
The Theory Behind Acupuncture
Aug 19, 2009
Acupuncture definitions usually sound like this, “Acupuncture is a therapy which is uses small solid needles inserted into specific points on the body to create a physiological effect.”
True. Yet this misses the powerful theory of acupuncture. This is what really makes it effective. It is not about the needle itself, but the theory behind it.
In the next three articles, I will tell you about the theory behind acupuncture, how it works, and also some of the other treatments you may encounter in an acupuncturists office. In fact, what we call acupuncture is really only one therapy in Chinese medicine, and a combination is often the most effective.
What is acupuncture theory?
Acupuncture is based upon the theory of Chinese medicine. It uses thin solid needles, gently inserted into specific acupuncture points on the body. The point prescription is created specifically for you in order to correct the imbalances that are causing your health concern.
Chinese medicine theory asserts that diseases are caused by imbalances in the body. By correcting the imbalances, then the body can work to heal itself. Imbalances are often related to the body’s energy, called qi (pronounced chee). Qi travels though channels in the body like water flowing through a winding river. These channels connect the body’s surface to the internal organs and muscles, this is why acupuncture can treat diseases of the internal organs.
Acupuncture Channels
Acupuncture corrects imbalances by stimulating specific points on specific channels. When stimulated, these points help the qi to flow smoothly. Acupuncture points are located on the channels, each having a precise healing action.
Treatment will correct the imbalance and remove the impediments to the flow of qi. Other imbalances may also occur. For example heat is a common cause of many illnesses from menstrual cramps to asthma. If this is the case, the acupuncture is prescribed specifically to remove the heat from the body.
After the needles are inserted, they will remain in the points for about 30 minutes. This is the period of time for qi to make one circulation through the channels in the body. After the needle is in, there’s a feeling of warmth and tingling. People usually find that acupuncture treatments are very relaxing and often loose track of time.
Read more about qi and health
Acupressure for Insomnia, Jet Lag, and Relaxation
May 13, 2009
This acupressure routine helps promote sleep and relaxation. In addition, it can be used for improving concentration and reducing jet lag. Often, I will give my patients these particular acupressure points to augment the acupuncture treatments for insomnia.
Yin Tang- The Spirit Gate
Location- on the forehead, in line with the nose above the eyebrows
Stimulation- gently rub downward towards your nose
Function- helps calm the mind and relieve stress
Heart 7- Shen Men (The Spirit Gate)
Gently Massage the Heart Channel for Relaxation
Location- at the wrist on the pinky side of the hand
Stimulation- If trying to go to sleep, gently rub towards the body. If trying to concentrate or wake up, gently tap.
Function- calms the spirit and nourishes the heart. This is one of the most important points for insomnia and jet lag because the heart is in charge of the internal clock. This point will be very good for people who wake up in the middle of the night and cannot fall back asleep. If you gently tap this point, it can help concentration.
Pericardium 6- Nei Guan (Inner Pass)
Gently Rub PC 6 in small circles
Location- on the center line of the arm, two thumb widths up from the wrist crease
Stimulation- gently rub in a circle or straight towards the body
Function- This point has many functions. It is most famous for treating nausea and improving digestion, but it is very powerful for managing stress and helping with sleep. The pericardium surrounds and protects the heart, so stimulating this channel also stimulates the heart.
Rubbing the ears
Ear Acupuncture Model
The ear is a map of the entire body with different body parts and body organs. By rubbing the ears, you can stimulate the entire body, moving qi and helping you feel more relaxed.
Photo: Pelikanol
What is Acupressure?
May 12, 2009
Acupressure is treatment within traditional Chinese medicine. Chinese medicine therapies influence a system of interconnected channels that run throughout our bodies. These channels do not simply lie on the outside of the body, but are more like waterways which link the upper body to the lower and the internal organs to the skin surface.
Qi, the body’s vital energy, moves through these channels. Qi movement is essential for health. Stress can cause the qi to stagnate and stop, which can lead to a number of diseases and pain.
Acupuncture points are locations on the channels where qi tends to gather and are areas where the channels can be more easily influenced from the skin’s surface. Some points are very deep while others are more shallow, depending on the body part and symptom being treated.
Acupressure is the manual stimulation of acupuncture points and can be used to promote circulation in the acupuncture channels. Often the points are slightly sensitive. As you get more practice, it will become easier to feel the correct level of pressure.
How to use acupressure?
Acupressure can be used to prevent issues or to treat symptoms when you are experiencing them.
Because Chinese medicine is primarily concerned with preventing disease before it occurs, the best way to use acupressure is by stimulating these points every day, much like a workout or stretching. Another method is by stimulating the points only when you are experiencing symptoms.
Different from medication Chinese medicine does not just give you a pill, but rather works to treat the root imbalance of the problem. By correcting the imbalance, your body can work to heal itself and Chinese medicine will have a lasting result.
Many people ask me about the difference between acupressure, acupuncture, and Chinese herbs. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs, in general, can address deeper more entrenched imbalances. At the same time, regular daily acupressure can help correct the deeper imbalances.
The body changes slowly. It is important to be diligent. We say that it takes 100 days for the acupressure to begin to correct the imbalance.
Read more on Acupressure:
You can use these acupressure points as a self massage to help boost your energy, improve digestion, reduce pain, and prevent illness.
- Acupressure for Cramps, Digestive Problems, and Boosting Energy
- Acupressure for Nausea, Hiccups, and Acid Reflux
- Acupressure for Headaches
And check back tomorrow for an acupressure routine for insomnia, stress reduction, and jet lag.
Acupressure Workshop for Migraines, Sinus Headaches, and Allergies
May 11, 2009
The next and final acupressure class for the season will be on Sunday May 17th, 2-3pm.
This class is free but space is limited, please RSVP to reserve a seat.
Spring is here and so are allergies. Come to this free workshop, where I will teach you teaches a self acupressure routine aimed to improve your circulation and boosting your energy (qi). This will help prevent allergies and sinus headaches. This routine can be used to reduce sinus and tension headaches, migraines, nasal congestion, watery eyes, and general stress reduction.
Here is a sneak peak at what we will cover.
Where: My Office.
Imperial Healing Arts, 57 West 57th Street, Suite 1109, on the 11th floor
The building is located on the northeast corner of 57th Street and 6th Ave, directly next to the 57th St. F train stop and one block east of the N,R,W,Q stop on 57th Street.
We’re only two blocks from Central Park, so after the class you can go and enjoy the day.
When: Sunday May 17th, 2-3pm
Contact: 917-887-4946 or e-mail us.
Acupuncture for Neck and Shoulder Pain
Apr 28, 2009
Recently, a young mother came into my office suffering from shoulder and neck pain. The center of the pain was a tight knot at the apex of her left shoulder. The pain was strong and nearly constant. It radiated from the shoulder to the base of the skull and there was a feeling of tightness that radiated across the front of the chest.
She is a busy mother. Playing and lifting her daughter exacerbated the problem. She had been seeing a chiropractor and a pain management doctor who was doing injections for 3 years without relief. She ended up taking pain medication almost everyday, she was extremely frustrated with her situation, and her sleep was terrible from the pain and tightness.
After one acupuncture session her pain was lessened by about half. At the end of a series of five treatments, along with some exercises at home, she had only occasional minor pain, and did not take any pain medications.
What is your approach to treatment?
The results of the acupuncture treatment depends upon the skill and approach of the practitioner. My success comes from the combination of acupuncture and acupressure over large muscle groups, using the whole acupuncture channel, treating the root of the condition, and my unique acupressure technique, which I learned in China. Also,I advise patients to do exercises and stretches at home to prevent the problem from returning.
Shoulder and Neck muscle groups
Trapezius Muscle from Gray's Anatomy
The body is interconnected, tension from one area can create problems in other muscles. In Tai ji we say that tension in the little toe can create tension in the whole body. Often, trying to target and treat only the location of the pain does not relieve the tension in the surrounding muscle groups. This is particularly true when treating pain in the neck and shoulders. All of the muscles in the region need to be addressed.
In my patient’s case the knot was on her shoulder, specifically in her trapezius muscle. Focusing on this muscle alone, and not relaxing the detoids, rhomboids, SCM, and even the biceps leaves the surrounding muscles tight.
Acupuncture Channels
Acupuncture Channels
The body is integrated by a series of channels. The location of pain and stiff muscles often follows the course of a specific channel. Targeting powerful acupuncture points on that channel, will move the stagnation that is causing the pain. In my patient’s case, the pain was on the Gallbladder channel and I used GB 34 to move the stagnation.
Some outside the field of acupuncture and Oriental Medicine believe that needling the location of the pain is sufficient. This is called dry needling, which is not nearly as effective as when the entire channel is considered.
Tui Na
Beginning of rolling movment
The key tui na technique I use is called the rolling technique, called gun fa in Chinese. Many acupuncturists know this technique. However, most do not utilize the movement of the wrist along with the whole hand which makes the technique feel smooth. I learned this while studying in China with Dr. Xiao at the Hunan University of traditional Chinese Medicine.
Ending of rolling movement
If you push too hard on a muscle, the muscle will rebel. Instead of relaxing, it can become tighter. My rolling technique, because it is smooth allows the use of strength while avoiding resistance within the muscle.
Treating the root of the condition
Chinese medicine is not simply putting a needle into the body where it hurts. It is based on a theory that the problem you have is caused by an imbalance. When it comes to muscle pain, the clinician must determine if it is an excess condition or a deficiency condition, and tailor the treatment to that diagnosis.
Excess conditions are when there is a build up in the muscles. This impedes the circulation of qi which leads to pain. A deficient condition is when there is not enough energy. Then the muscles do not have enough substance to support them, as a result they tense up.
I like to describe excess and deficiency by comparing the muscles to a narrow bridge (please excuse any physics mistakes, I am not an engineer).
When there is an excess condition, there is too much trash, debries, and cracks in the pavement for you to safely and easily cross the bridge. Climbing over the obstacles causes you to slow down, and sometimes you injure yourself. The acupuncture and tui na helps to remove the trash and smooth over the cracks.
When there is a deficiency, the support columns for the bridge are unstable. The bridge is rocky, can develop cracks, the sidewalk is tense, but shaky, and the tension on sides of the bridge increases. This also makes it hard for you to pass. In this case, the acupuncture and acupressure helps to support the bridge, which will allow you to cross safely.
For an excess condition, you will use a stronger technique, and for a deficient condition, you will use a more gentle technique. If the deficiency is very extreme, then the treatment may be take a longer time.
Neck Exercises at Home
Acupuncture treatment helps to correct the imbalance and allow the body to heal. Staying healthy and preventing the pain from returning is something you do on your own with qi gong exercises and stretches. Use these neck stretches and basic qi gong to keep your body healthy and prevent the pain from returning.
Photos: Wikipedia, EEcue, Library of Congress
More than Just Acupuncture and Herbs
Apr 24, 2009
Chinese medicine is more than just what I do in my office, Acupuncture, Acupressure, and Chinese herbal formulas. There are many practices which prevent illnesses and maintain health that you can do on your own.
Here are some I often recommend to my patients and my readers.
Food as Medicine
Eating healthy is the best way to prevent illnesses. Here are some articles which share Chinese medicine dietary therapies and philosophy of food choices.
- Eating Healthy to Create Harmony
- Chinese Medicine Recommendations for Vegetarians
- A Rainy Day Beef Ginger Soup
- Foods to Beat the Common Cold
Exercising
Our bodies are made to move. Here are some exercises and stretches to boost your body and your qi.
Acupressure
You can use acupressure as a self massage to help boost your energy, reduce pain, and prevent illness.
- Acupressure for Cramps, Digestive Problems, and Boosting Energy
- Acupressure for Nausea, Hiccups, and Acid Reflux
- Acupressure for Headaches
Prevent and Beat the Common Cold
Chinese medicine has tons of remedies to prevent and treat the common cold. Here are a few.
Resetting the Immune System: Allergies, Asthma, and Acupuncture
Apr 8, 2009
The immune system is a wonderful thing. Without it we could not live a second–we would be totally consumed by bacteria and viruses. But, it is fickle. It can overreact or react in response to something that is not a pathogen.
I’ve recently written a couple posts about allergies (click here to read about acupuncture and allergies and click here to read about allergies in New York this season). Allergies are caused by the immune system reacting in a way it should not, and giving us problems. Asthma is also caused by the immune system overreacting.
Why do asthma and allergies often occur together?
Asthma and allergies are both caused by a hyper reaction in your immune system. And it is no surprise to those with asthma, that allergies make asthma worse. The same allergen will also irritate your lungs and cause an acute flare up with many asthma attacks and difficult breathing. With some people, this can even happen with skin allergies. You can read more about that in this article from the Mayo clinic.
How does Chinese medicine approach asthma?
Chinese medicine therapy is not one treatment, but involves many. Some are done by a Chinese medicine doctor, and others that are done by the patient themselves. In my experience, combination therapies is the most powerful and effective way to treat and prevent asthma symptoms.
The idea behind Acupuncture and Chinese medicine treatment is that it corrects imbalances in the body. In other words, it works to reset the body’s immune system. In chronic immune conditions, your body becomes hypersensitive to what should not cause a major reaction. The acupuncture, acupressure, and Chinese herbs work to correct the imbalance and stimulate the body to heal itself.
1. Acupuncture is frequently used for treating asthma. As with all acupuncture, the treatment focuses on correcting the root imbalance that is causing your asthma, resetting the body to be healthy.
I have written in the past about how acupuncture helps to boost immunity and also acupuncture’s effect on our brain to regulate pain. It is possible that acupuncture works both to stimulate the immune system as well as regulate the hormonal regulation of the brain to helps to reset the immune hypersensitivity and reaction that causes your asthma.
There is some research beginning in asthma, allergies and acupuncture. One study from Taiwan showed that concluded that acupuncture does have an immediate improvement in breathing. Also, there is a growing interest in laser acupuncture for pediatric asthma because it is not as scary to a child. Here is a great study about laser acupuncture and a probiotics for kids with asthma. I personally don’t do laser acupuncture, Virgina Mims, one of my colleagues does.
2. Chinese herbs have long been used to treat asthma, and researchers are beginning to explore this idea. Just like acupuncture, the herbs are focused on correcting the imbalance and regulating the immune system. Most often, Chinese herbs are given as formulas, that is a combination of many different herbs combined which are taken together.
The combination helps to create a synergy. Herbs correctly combined together are more powerful than single herbs. They also work together to reduce side effects.
For some people with asthma and allergies, the formula Jade Wind Screen is effective. This helps to gently boost the qi while reducing allergy symptoms. It is important to consult an herbal practitioner before taking Chinese herbs.
3. Acupressure is the massage of different acupressure points on the body. It can be done by a professional (like me)
Qi gong practice
or you can do it yourself as a self care technique. Gentle rubbing the points of PC6, LI 4, and ST 36 can boost your energy and immunity. LI 4 works specifically to treat frontal headaches.
4. Tai ji and qi gong are slow moving exercises which help to improve the circulation of qi. Chen Man-ching, one of the early and most famous tai ji teachers in America, began to study tai ji in order to help a chronic lung problem. The exercises helped to heal him and prevent his condition from coming back.
5. Chinese cupping is a technique which glass or plastic cups create a suction on the
Zorba the Greek using Cupping
skin. This helps to increase the circulation at that area. It has been used with many different type of respiratory conditions. With asthma, it helps to open the lungs and increase the expectoration of phlegm. The tradition has also been used in Europe for a couple centuries and was captured in the movie Zorba the Greek.
6. It is also important to watch what you eat. Avoiding dairy and greasy food is important for those with asthma. Dairy often stimulates the production of mucus and phlegm. Ice cream and milk are the worst offenders. Yogurt in moderation maybe ok. For those with severe asthma, it is better to avoid dairy products in general to help the body clear out the phlegm.
Photos: euthman, Oda’s courses, barelyfitz
Smell the Flowers: Acupuncture and Allergies
Apr 2, 2009
As I mentioned in my last post, acupuncture is a becoming a popular choice for helping to reduce seasonal allergies. I think this is because acupuncture offers an effective drug free treatment, which does not have any serious side effects. So you can smell the flowers and still breathe free and clear without worrying about being too drowsy and foggy brained.
Acupuncture is different than taking a pill
Antihistamines are commonly taken for allergies. These are medicines which block the chemicals called histamines that cause the symptoms of allergies.
Acupuncture is different. Chinese medicine works by correcting imbalances in your body, stimulating your own body to heal itself. So instead of simply suppressing the body’s reaction, it works to correct the root cause of the problem.
In other words, acupuncture helps to reset the body and remind it how to be healthy. As balance is achieved, your body is able to maintain the healthy state without medications.
The root is in your Qi
The Chinese Character for Qi
Qi is the body’s vital energy, it gives you the power to work, study, exercise, and fight illness. It circulates in the body through channels, which I have written about here.
The root cause of allergies is often a qi imbalance. There are two major qi imbalances. The most common one for allergies is when there is too little qi, we call this a qi vacuity. When your qi is vacuous, you feel tired, can get colds easily, may have poor digestion, coughing, wheezing, and possibly asthma. The acupuncture and herbs work to boost up your qi, giving you more energy and protecting you from allergies.
The second imbalance is called qi stagnation. This is when your qi does not circulate well. This is often caused by stress, and can cause pain, headaches, menstrual cramps, and in some cases, bring on asthma attacks.
Acupressure is also be helpful to increase the blood flow and circulation in the head and the lymph.
Asthma, chronic sinusitis, and seasonal allergies are a special topic which I will discuss in the next post.
Is there a scientific explanation?
We still don’t know everything about how acupuncture works. We do know that it can reduce inflammation and increase circulation, which can certainly help allergies. We also know it helps to regulate the brain to reduce pain, so it is also possible that is another way it works to help regulate the immune response to allergies.
Clinical studies are now reaffirming some of our clinical experience. This study showed acupuncture, in addition to routine care, was effective at reducing the symptoms of allergies. Another one, showed that acupuncture alone was helpful.
Get acupuncture and smell the flowers!
If you are interested in finding out more about how acupuncture can reduce your seasonal allergies, please call us at 917.887.4946 for a free consultation.
Photos: massdistraction, wikipedia
Allergies in New York City
Mar 31, 2009
New Yorkers love springtime. Winter hibernation is over and we are instantly out enjoying the parks and the city. But for many, spring time means seasonal allergies and hay fever. And that means sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, headaches, skin irritation, and tickling in your throat.
Allergies are worse in the Northeast
It is estimated that 35 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies. And according to Greg Kress, the owner of Pollen.com, allergies are worse in the Northeast part of the country. That means that a lot of those 35 million are living in our neck of the woods. And although we are a big city, we also have a lot of trees, grasses, and flower spreading their pollen, so New Yorker’s with allergies don’t get a free pass.
The good news for some, and bad news for others, is that according to Kress’s prediction, this year will be about the same intensity as last year.
What causes allergies
Seasonal allergies are reactions to pollen spread by the wind. Generally, allergies are worse from the end of March to June, but, depending on what plant you are allergic to, there are those who also suffer from allergies in the summer and fall as well.
When you breathe in the pollen, your body reacts as if the it were a disease causing pathogen and starts an immune reaction to combat it. Antibodies attach the allergen and then histamines are released into the blood, which cause the symptoms.
Allergies can seriously impact your life
Everyone knows that the symptoms of allergies can are painful and uncomfortable, but it can also lead to other more severe adverse effects.
Allergies affect your productivity at work and school. Currently, some scientists are starting to explore a link between depression, fatigue, insomnia, and allergies.
Natural Treatments of Allergies
The best thing to avoid allergies is to avoid the allergen. But that’s not always possible, especially when the allergen is floating in the air we breathe.
Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are becoming more popular to treat allergies. I see many patients to reduce allergies and prevent them. It also is an effective drug free choice which has no side effects. Unlike antihistamines, acupuncture does not make you drowsy. Acupressure is also helpful.
How does Acupuncture and Chinese medicine treat allergies?
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are very effective at treating allergies. Chinese medicine works by correcting imbalances in the body. When the imbalance is corrected, your body can heal itself.
Acupuncture has long been used for allergies and some research is now showing that it is effective. Personally, I like to combine acupuncture, acupressure, and sometimes Chinese herbs for the most effective treatment. Please check back for my next post on Thursday which will explain acupuncture theory behind treating allergies.
If you are interested in finding out more about how acupuncture can reduce your seasonal allergies, please call us at 917.887.4946 for a free consultation.
Photo: brookenovak, Corinna A. Carlson
