Posts Tagged ‘migraines’
Open Center Acupressure Class
Oct 31, 2012
The introductory class for Acupressure for Self Healing at the New York Open Center is starting next week!
Monday November 5th 2012 at 6pm.
Interested in learning more about how you can use acupressure to relieve headaches, menstrual cramps, digestive problems, and improve overall health? Then you should come to my class at the New York Open Center in November 2012.
What is acupressure?
- Acupressure is a traditional Chinese healing art in which physical pressure is applied to acupuncture points with the hand (rather than with needles as in acupuncture), so it can be practiced by everyone.
How does acupressure work?
- Acupressure can helps to circulate and balance our qi (energy) to improve our overall health and wellness or help address specific conditions
What will I learn in the class?
- This course will introduce you to the basic concepts and practices of acupressure, including how to
Rolling is a Tui Na Technique
locate points, how to diagnose imbalances in energy flow through the meridians, and how to apply pressure correctly. You’ll also learn some qigong breathing exercises and tui na massage techniques.
- By the end of the course, you’ll be able to use acupressure on ourselves and others to alleviate a range of ailments, including indigestion, PMS and menstrual cramps, headaches and migraines, back and neck pain, as well as to boost overall wellness and energy.
New Research on Acupuncture for Pain
Sep 12, 2012
Acupuncture is famous for the treatment of chronic pain. Chronic pain is one of the most common health concerns I see in my NYC acupuncture clinic. Back pain, headaches, migraines, shoulder pain, knee pain, neuropathy, arthritis, and other chronic pain conditions. Patients can have profound results.
In the clinic we know acupuncture is effective for pain, but often skeptics are vocal opponents because they believe that there is not enough research.
Recently, a very large analysis of research trials, called a meta-analysis, was published focusing on acupuncture for pain. The meta-analysis shows that acupuncture is effective for the treatment of pain. This was across many pain conditions including back and neck pain, osteoarthritis, chronic headaches, and shoulder pain.
Andrew Vickers PhD, the head author, and his team painstakingly reviewed virtually all of the acupuncture research trials which have focused on pain. They had strict criteria for the quality of the studies to be included in their analysis. In the end, the group used 29 acupuncture studies which included 17922 total patients.
The results of the study showed that acupuncture was much better than no-acupuncture control groups across the studies. The acupuncture was also better than placebo acupuncture across the groups. The difference between real and placebo acupuncture was not as large as the difference between acupuncture and no acupuncture. However, the numbers are large enough to show a real difference between placebo and real acupuncture for pain reduction.
The Body Acupuncture
Jan 17, 2012
Acupuncture can target chronic pain in any location of the body. Sometimes, an acupuncturist will put needles in the place of the pain. But other times an acupuncturist will place needles far away from the location, such as in acupuncture points on the legs and feet for chronic headaches.
The primary way acupuncturists can focus the treatment for chronic pain in specific places because of the acupuncture channels. Acupuncture channels connect different parts of the body and run along different places in the body. The acupuncture channels create a type of map that interconnects different regions of the body.
Large Intesting 4
For example, the Large Intestine acupuncture channel starts on the hand, up the forearm, through the shoulder to the face. This is why LI 4 on the hand can be very effective for frontal and sinus headaches.
On the other hand, the Gall Bladder channel runs from the toes, along the sides of the body, and then to the sides of the head. This is why Gall Bladder 34 near the knee can be effective for headaches on the side or temples.
Auricular acupuncture
Auricular acupuncture, or ear acupuncture, is particularly effective for chronic pain.
In acupuncture, the ear lobe provides a map of the body with points for specific areas and organs.
In ear acupuncture, the best way to target the chronic pain is to find the most sensitive points in the ear for that region and place the needle in that acupuncture point.
What Conditions Acupuncture Treats
Dec 29, 2011
What does acupuncture treat?
During the past year I have been adding a section to my website focusing on the commonly treated conditions in my clinic. It is not yet comprehensive, but over the next few months I will continue to build this section. Currently, I have a number of in depth articles detailing the acupuncture treatment.
Skin Conditions
- Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine for Eczema
- Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine for Psoriasis
Chronic Pain
Urology
- Acupuncture for Chronic Prostatitis and Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
- Acupuncture for Interstitial Cystitis
Headaches and Migraines
Nov 9, 2011
Acupuncture is very effective at treating chronic migraines, tension headaches, and sinus headaches. Acupuncture therapy has been used for over 2000 years to treat chronic headaches.
How does acupuncture treat headaches?
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine scholars theorize that health is based upon balance in the body. Imbalances can cause long term illnesses and pain. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine work by correcting these imbalances in the body. Once the imbalance is corrected, the body can then works to heal itself.
Physiological, acupuncture works to reduce pain and inflammation through regulating neural pain pathways, stimulating the release of natural pain relievers in the body, such as opioids, as well as regulating pain relieving opioid receptors. Many studies have also shown acupuncture to have a anti-inflammatory effect, reducing the circulating inflammatory hormones in the blood (1).
Chronic headaches and migraines there is often a terrible cycle of tension and pain. The muscles tense up in reaction to the pain and then the pain causes the muscles to tense up more. Some believe this cycle of pain further exasperates the decreased blood flow to and from the skull, which may be one of the causes of migraines. Acupuncture cuts off this cycle of tension and pain by relaxing the muscles and relieving tension.
Acupuncture is also very relaxing. Most people feel very calm during the treatment and this lasts for a period of time afterwards. Over time, treatment helps influence you to be calm and increase your ability to deal with stress. This is because acupuncture does not separate the body and the mind. The mind influences the body, and the body influences the mind. So in treating the body we also relax the mind.
What are the most common imbalances that cause headaches?
When comes to headaches, the imbalance is often rooted in the circulation or production of the body’s energy called qi (pronounced chee). Qi needs to be abundant and circulate through channels in the body or else illness occurs.
In Chinese medicine, it is said “When the qi flows there is no pain, when qi stops, there is pain and illness.” When there is stress, trauma, or other illness, the qi circulation can slow down and become stagnated. Someone with qi stagnation will have headaches that are intense, worse with stress, neck pain, ribside pain, possible insomnia, and digestive problems.
Another imbalance can be too little energy, or what is called qi deficiency. If there is too little energy, then people will feel tired, get bloated after they eat, and have a weak pulse.
Acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and acupressure all help to build more qi and smooth the flow of qi.
What is acupuncture treatment like?
An effective acupuncture treatment is based upon a specific and accurate diagnosis. The root imbalance of the condition and by asking in depth questions, taking your pulse, and examining your body. By targeting the exact root of the condition leads to the most successful treatment.
I combine acupressure, Chinese medicine massage, with the acupuncture to create greater results and a stronger sense of relaxation. Usually people will feel some relief after only a few weekly visits.
Research on Acupuncture for Headaches
A recent metanalysis of 31 studies, showed that acupuncture was more effective than both medication and placebo acupuncture (2). For those who do not know, a metanalysis is a more definitive study which examines many many previously performed studies. The studies showed that acupuncture was stronger than placebo acupuncture for reducing headaches, and even stronger than medication for reducing headache frequency, intensity, and overall physical function.
References:
1. Napadow V, Ahn A, Longhurst J, et.al. The Status and Future of Acupuncture Mechanism Research. J Altern Complement Med. 2008 September; 14(7): 861–869.
2. Sun Y, Gan TJ. Acupuncture for the management of chronic headache: a systematic review. Anesth Analg. 2008 Dec;107(6):2038-47.
written by Joseph Alban
edited: November 7, 2011
Acupressure Class Tonight
Jun 6, 2011
My class Acupressure for Self Healing at the New York Open Center starts Tonight, Monday, June 6th.
Register here at the The New York Open Center.
What is acupressure?
- Acupressure is a traditional Chinese healing art in which physical pressure is applied to acupuncture points with the hand (rather than with needles as in acupuncture), so it can be practiced by everyone.
How does acupressure work?
- Acupressure can helps to circulate and balance our qi (energy) to improve our overall health and wellness or help address specific conditions
What will I learn in the class?
- This course will introduce you to the basic concepts and practices of acupressure, including how to
Rolling is a Tui Na Technique
locate points, how to diagnose imbalances in energy flow through the meridians, and how to apply pressure correctly. You’ll also learn some qigong breathing exercises and tui na massage techniques.
- By the end of the course, you’ll be able to use acupressure on ourselves and others to alleviate a range of ailments, including indigestion, PMS and menstrual cramps, headaches and migraines, back and neck pain, as well as to boost overall wellness and energy.
How long is the course?
- There is a five dollar introductory course on June 6th at 8pm. Click here to register.
- The course meets for 4 session on Mondays from June 13th-July 11th, 8-10pm.
There is no class meeting on July 4th.
Register here at the The New York Open Center.
Learn Acupressure for Headaches, Digestive Problems, Cramps, and More
May 16, 2011
Interested in learning more about how you can use acupressure to relieve headaches, menstrual cramps, digestive problems, and improve overall health? Then you should come to my acupressure class at the New York Open Center in June 2011.
What is Acupressure?
- Acupressure is a traditional Chinese healing art in which physical pressure is applied to acupuncture points with the hand (rather than with needles as in acupuncture), so it can be practiced by everyone.
How does acupressure work?
- Acupressure can helps to circulate and balance our qi (energy) to improve our overall health and wellness or help address specific conditions
What will I learn in the class?
- This course will introduce you to the basic concepts and practices of acupressure, including how to
Rolling is a Tui Na Technique
locate points, how to diagnose imbalances in energy flow through the meridians, and how to apply pressure correctly. You’ll also learn some qigong breathing exercises and tui na massage techniques.
- By the end of the course, you’ll be able to use acupressure on ourselves and others to alleviate a range of ailments, including indigestion, PMS and menstrual cramps, headaches and migraines, back and neck pain, as well as to boost overall wellness and energy.
How long is the course?
- There is a five dollar introductory course on June 6th at 8pm. Click here to register.
- The course meets for 4 session on Mondays from June 13th-July 11th, 8-10pm.
There is no class meeting on July 4th.
Register here at the The New York Open Center.
Home
Sep 1, 2010
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine work by correcting imbalances in your body. When you regain your natural balance, you are healthier, and you feel better.
Joseph Alban is a New York Licensed Acupuncturist and Board Certified Herbalist. He is known for his unique approach blending the concepts of Chinese Medicine and Western Physiology to specifically target the root of your problem.
Joseph’s treatment approach includes a combination of acupuncture, Chinese herbal remedies, tui na massage, qi gong, electric stimulation, cupping, and stretching. Every patient receives an individualized treatment plan.
Commonly treated conditions:
- Chronic joint pain: arthritis, back pain, neck and shoulder pain, and rotator cuff injury
- Chronic prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome, overactive bladder, interstital cystitis
- Skin Conditions: Acne, eczema, psoriasis, perioral dermatitis, rosacea, and others
- Tension headaches, sinus headache, seasonal allergies, and migraines
- Click here for more information
About Alban Acupuncture:
Alban Acupuncture is the Midtown NYC acupuncture practice of Joseph Alban. Joseph has extensive training in acupuncture, tui na, and Chinese herbal medicine from both the United States and China. His practice focuses on relieving chronic pain, sports injuries, as well as helping people with skin conditions. Joseph is a frequent blogger and has authored numerous journal articles. He has been featured in magazines such as Time Out New York. Read more about Joseph Alban, L.Ac.
Our New Office:
Our new office, located at 40th and Lexington in Manhattan, was designed to create a beautiful and calming environment. The office design features specially designed sound panels mounted on the walls which soften sounds in the office and prevent outside sounds from coming in. Its the perfect place for rest, healing, and wellbeing. Feel free to come early and enjoy a cup of tea before your appointment!
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine:
Traditional Chinese Medicine works by correcting imbalances in the body. When your body regains its natural balance, you are healthier, and you feel better. Treating the imbalance does not just treat the symptoms or mask the condition, but rather corrects the root of the problem by encouraging self-healing of the body. The treatments are specifically tailored to your condition and symptoms.
Acupuncture is a natural therapy with little risks of side effects. Acupuncture can help you to reduce your dependance upon medications and bring about a sense of well being. Acupuncture works by stimulating the body to heal itself. Physiologically, acupuncture works to reduce pain and inflammation through regulating neural pain pathways, stimulating the release of the body’s natural pain relievers, as well as regulating pain relieving receptors. Acupuncture also has an anti-inflammatory effect reducing the circulating inflammatory hormones.
Why Heat Causes Headaches?
Mar 24, 2009
People who have migraine headaches and other chronic headache know from experience that the weather can be a trigger.
Earlier this month, the largest study to date examining weather patterns and headaches was published in the journal Neurology. It reported that an increase in temperature was the most likely factor to cause a headache. Also, an increase in humidity was a factor for most types of headaches.
Chinese medicine has known this for a long time. Weather and climatic factors are one of the major causes of disease in Chinese medicine. We even go farther. Often the metaphor of weather patterns– wind, dampness, heat, cold, and dryness—are used as descriptions of the pattern of symptoms you are experiencing.
Why does weather affect headaches so much?
While Western science cannot fully explain this phenomenon (the link may be due to dehydration, but we’re not sure) Chinese medicine has long had an explanation which is linked with their view of health and disease.
Chinese medicine believes that health is based upon balance and harmony. Imbalances in the body and between the body and our environment are the causes of diseases. If you get headaches when it is hot or humid, it is because there is a disharmony in the body which is reacting to the environmental trigger.
It’s really your Liver and your Qi
The most common pattern for chronic headaches that are caused by hot weather is a Liver disharmony. It can also be a disharmony of your qi, or energy. Please note that the organs in Western Medicine and Chinese medicine often have the same name, but don’t worry, an imbalance in your Chinese Liver does not mean your Western liver is diseased.
Disharmony of the Liver- This is a common imbalance that is the root cause of many migraine headaches. This imbalance is often caused by a lack of blood and fluids which moisten the liver. It can also be caused by stress and anger, which impedes the circulation of the qi in the body. The reason heat would cause a migraine with this pattern is because the lack of fluids effects the ability to cool the body and makes you more susceptible to heat.
Disharmony of your Qi- This is a common headache people get when it is hot or humid out. Qi is the body’s vital energy which circulates in the body. Extremely hot weather can cause damage to your qi and cause it not to circulate appropriately in the body. This makes you feel tired, achy, and can cause a severe headache.
Some people also have dampness inside the body. Those with dampness will have chronic sinus problems, digestive issues, lethargy, may be overweight, and a heavy feeling in the body. These people will feel bad with both hot and humid weather.
For those with headaches that are sensitive to weather changes, there is hope. We cannot change the weather, but through individualized acupuncture and Chinese medicine treatment, you can change the imbalance in the body that is making you sensitive to the weather patterns.
Learn more about heat and headaches
- Cooling Summertime Tea
- Acupuncture for Sinus Headaches
- Its Official, Acupuncture Can Relieve Your Headache
The Best Acupuncturist in New York
Mar 6, 2009
Who is the best Acupuncturist in New York City?
This is a great question, but impossible question to answer. Just like there is no one best physician for every condition, there is no best acupuncturist for every health concern. It is really about finding the best acupuncturist for your needs. There are a few questions to consider.
1. What is their Education and Experience?
Education and experience are obviously important factor for being a good clinician and acupuncturist.
After finishing Touro’s Graduate Program in Oriental Medicine, which is a 4 years master’s degree, I continued on to a postgraduate training in China at the Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. When I came back to become an NYC Acupuncturist, I received a National Institutes of Health research training grant in the Pediatric Immunology Department of Mount Sinai School of Medicine.
This education was very intensive, covering hundreds of acupuncture points, herbs, and herbal formulations. I also had unique and extensive training in acupressure and Tui na (Chinese medical massage), learning techniques and treatments that other acupuncturists don’t know.
In 2012 I graduated form the Avicenna Diploma in Chinese Medicine Dermatology in London taught by world renown Chinese Medicine Dermatologist Mazin Al-Khafaji.
My experience and training provided an opportunity to develop a specialty in treatment of pain, chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome, interstitial cystitis, and dermatology.
2. What is their Specialty?
Find our where your acupuncturist has special training in any specific area.
While I worked in China and through my postgraduate training I developed a specialties in a few specific areas.
- Treating and managing chronic pain: shoulder and neck pain, frozen shoulder, migraine, sinus headaches, back pain, sciatica, knee pain
- Skin Conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, hives, and shingles.
- Integrative Urology: Interstitial Cystitis, Chronic Prostatitis , Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome, and prostate surgery recovery.
- Immunology: Asthma and Sinusitis.
If you are looking for someone who is an expert on issues of pregnancy or mental health, I would recommend my colleague Jessica Yunker. If you are looking for facial rejuvenation acupuncture, then call Jessica Silver. And if you would like support in Cancer Care, you should contact my good friend and colleague Kejian Xiao.
3. Do you like their bedside manner?
Communication is important with your health care provider is very important. Your practitioner should listen to you with patience and compassion and you should feel comfortable asking them to explain their honest opinion about the treatment outcomes and assessment.
4. What do their patients think about them?
You should ask around with your friends and family to see if anyone knows a good acupuncturist. If none of your friends know anyone. You can also look at their website , see if they have a lot of reviews and testimonials.
If you’re interested, click here for my reviews and testimonials.
5. Do they offer free consultations?
Your acupuncturist should be open to discuss your health concerns and situation before you commit to treatment. This will help assure you that Chinese medicine is the right choice for you as not everyone is familiar with the benefits of acupuncture treatment. We are happy to schedule a telephone consultation.
To schedule an appointment, please call us at 917.887.4946 or request an appointment through e-mail.
This post was updated May 17th 2013.
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