#dry needling vs acupuncture

[drandrewstherapeuticblogs]

Risks and differences: Acupuncture and Dry Needling

When carried out by a qualified and licenced practitioner, acupuncture and dry needling are typically regarded as safe practices. However, both techniques do carry some potential risks, just like any medical procedure.

Acupuncture-related risks include the following.

discomfort or pain at the injection site.

bruising or bleeding.

infection (rare, but possible if needles are not sterile).

Internal organ damage is uncommon but possible if needles are inserted too deeply.

The dangers of dry needling include the following.

Inflammation or discomfort at the injection site.

bleeding or bruising.

(Rare, but possible if needles are not sterile) infection.

damage to blood vessels or nerves.

soreness following a procedure.

It's crucial to remember that these risks are typically uncommon and can be reduced by selecting a licensed professional who uses sterile needles and adheres to the right safety procedures. Additionally, before the procedure, it's crucial to let your doctor know about any medical issues or prescription drugs you are currently taking.

How acupuncture and dry needling helps?

Both dry needling and acupuncture are thought to work by triggering the body's natural healing response to reduce pain and muscle tension.

The principles of traditional Chinese medicine are the foundation of acupuncture, which is used to balance the body's qi (chi) flow. This idea holds that a blockage or imbalance of qi in the body is what causes illness and pain. To restore the balance of Qi and encourage healing, acupuncture needles are inserted into particular body points known as acupoints.

On the other hand, dry needling is based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles. Thin needles are inserted into trigger points, which are tight knots or bands of muscle that can form in response to injury or overuse. Through the release of tension and the lowering of pain, dry needling is thought to stimulate the muscle tissue and encourage healing.

Numerous conditions, such as myofascial pain syndrome, chronic pain, and headaches, have been treated using both methods. Additionally, they help people with conditions like neck pain, back pain, and other musculoskeletal conditions move more freely and function better. It is important to note that more research is necessary to fully comprehend the effectiveness and possible risks of both acupuncture and dry needling. Why are acupuncture and dry needling differs?

There are many differences between acupuncture and dry needling, including their historical roots, underlying theories, and the particular ailments they are used to treat.

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that is based on the idea that disease and discomfort are brought on by an imbalance or obstruction of the body's energy, or Qi. In order to restore the Qi's balance and encourage healing, acupuncture needles are inserted into specific body points known as acupoints. Pain, infertility, anxiety, and depression are just a few of the many conditions that are frequently treated with acupuncture.

On the other hand, dry needling is based on Western anatomical and neurophysiological theories. It involves inserting tiny needles into particular muscle trigger points, which are tight bands or knots that can form as a result of injury or overuse. Myofascial pain syndrome, chronic pain, and headaches are just a few of the conditions that are treated with dry needling. Additionally, it helps people with conditions like neck pain, back pain, and other musculoskeletal conditions move more freely and perform better.

Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medical principles and is used to balance the body's energy flow, which is another significant distinction. Western anatomical and neurophysiological principles serve as the foundation for dry needling.

Acupuncture needles are also inserted into specific body points with the goal of balancing Qi, whereas dry needling needles are inserted into specific muscle tissue points to stimulate the muscle tissue and promote healing by releasing tension and reducing pain.

[medtac12]

 A guide on acupuncture and dry needling

For the purpose of treating various physical, mental, and emotional conditions and relieving pain, thin needles are inserted into the body during acupuncture and dry needling treatments. Acupuncture, which is a part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has a long history of use in Asia. By focusing on specific body points, or acupoints, which correspond to particular organs or bodily systems, it aims to balance the body's energy flow (Qi) and restore health. Chronic pain, headaches, and emotional disorders are just a few of the conditions that can be treated with acupuncture. It is also used to promote general health and well-being. But usually there is a confusion between acupuncture and dry needling that bothers a lot of people.

Treating musculoskeletal conditions with dry needling is a contemporary Western strategy. It focuses on particular trigger points—areas of muscle tension or knots that can hurt or cause discomfort. Dry needling is primarily used to treat musculoskeletal conditions like chronic pain, muscle tension, and sports injuries. Selecting a qualified practitioner who is certified and trained in the specific technique you're interested in is crucial when thinking about acupuncture or dry needling. It's also crucial to understand exactly what the treatment entails and what to expect from it.

Is acupuncture needles the best or dry needling needles?

The condition being treated and the practitioner's preference will determine whether to use acupuncture needles or dry needling needles.

Compared to dry needling needles, acupuncture needles are typically thinner and more flexible because they are made for use in traditional Chinese medicine. They are employed to stimulate acupoints on the body, which are thought to correspond to particular organs or bodily systems. To balance the body's energy flow and promote health, acupuncture needles are used.

On the other hand, dry needling needles are typically thicker and stiffer, and they are made specifically to treat muscle tension and pain. They are used to target specific trigger points, which are knots or areas of muscle tension that can be painful or uncomfortable. To relieve muscle tension and increase range of motion, dry needling is done with needles.

The choice of needle type will depend on the practitioner's preference, the condition of the specific patient, and the intended outcome of the treatment. Both types of needles can be effective in treating pain.

So, what’s the major difference in both treatments?

The underlying philosophy and method of treatment used in acupuncture and dry needling differ significantly.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a holistic strategy for health and wellness, is the foundation of acupuncture. It focuses on acupoints, which are specific points on the body that correspond to particular organs or bodily systems, in order to balance the body's energy flow (Qi) and restore health. It is used to treat a variety of ailments, such as chronic pain, headaches, and emotional disorders, as well as to advance general health and wellbeing.

On the other hand, dry needling is a more focused and localized method of treating musculoskeletal pain and injuries. It targets particular trigger points—areas of muscle tension or knots that can hurt or cause discomfort. Most commonly, musculoskeletal conditions like chronic pain, muscle tension, and sports injuries are treated with dry needling.

Another distinction is that while dry needling is typically administered by physical therapists, chiropractors, or other healthcare professionals who have completed specialized training in dry needling, acupuncture treatment is typically provided by licensed acupuncturists who have completed specialized training in TCM.

Last but not least, in addition to acupuncture, other modalities may be used during treatment, including herbal remedies, cupping, moxibustion, etc., while the only tool used in dry needling is a needle.

[elevatewellness-stpete]

Dry Needling vs Acupuncture

I can’t tell you how many times a week I have a conversation with someone that starts like this…

“Have you ever had acupuncture?”

“No. I have only ever had dry needling”

I also get asked multiple times per week “What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling”. As an acupuncturist, I found that I used to struggle with how to answer this as it is complex in many ways. My hope is that the information below makes it easier to understand and helps to provide even a small amount of education to anyone that is interested in this modality of treatment.

Acupuncture VS Dry Needling

Is dry needling and acupuncture the same thing? Yes AND No. Let me start by saying that what I have found is that recently the term dry needling indicates more about WHO is performing this style of needling as Chiropractors and Physical Therapists have been lobbying state by state to be approved to do “dry needling” as they can not say that they do acupuncture due to regulations around scope of practice. As this is an important part of the conversation, I will address this more below.

In terms of the treatment modality itself, historically, dry needling IS acupuncture. The practitioner is using acupuncture needles to treat trigger points, which acupuncturists have treated for thousands of years. Acupuncturists have called these trigger points “ashi” points or local points. Acupuncturists will use the terms dry needling, trigger points, “ashi” points, or local points interchangeably to indicate a style of acupuncture that they will incorporate into a treatment but it is often not the only style of acupuncture they will use. At the same time, the term dry needling and acupuncture are completely different in many respects. The differences include the training required to do it, the understanding of the needle and its relationship with anatomy, the functions of the meridians, Qi and energy, the passion behind it, and the approach.

While I often use trigger point acupuncture or dry needling into my treatments, I am also incorporating in other styles of acupuncture and treatment modalities. This includes manual therapy like cupping and gua sha, as well as acupuncture points that help to treat any other health conditions or underlying imbalances to optimize health, address any additional health concerns someone might be dealing with, improve athletic performance, recovery, and prevent injuries that someone might be prone to. As an acupuncturist, I treat the WHOLE person every time they walk into the clinic.

Acupuncture has gained wide acceptance for its effectiveness to treat many pain conditions and injuries. When pain or an injury brings someone into the clinic they often don’t realize how many things acupuncture can treat and they don’t realize that we are Primary Care Providers. I often have patients ask “can acupuncture help with…” and fill in the blank. The answer is generally YES! For example, in addition to treating your injury or pain, in the same treatment I can also do acupuncture for your allergies, digestive symptoms, struggles with sleep, anxiety and stress, as well as many other health concerns. In Chinese Medicine, it is all connected and it is why I LOVE this medicine.

Training and Approach

Dry needling is a term that has gotten a lot of attention and it has been adopted by Physical Therapists and Chiropractors to drive legislation that allows them to use this one technique in their practices. This is an area that really sets acupuncture and dry needling apart in terms of who is performing it. No matter who you see for this type of treatment, I believe it is important to understand the training that someone receives so that you can make an educated decision about who you see for treatment.

While PT’s and chiropractors can advertise that they do dry needling, they can not claim that they do acupuncture. For dry needling, the required training for physical therapists and chiropractors is a weekend course. In contrast, as an acupuncturist I had to complete 4 years of schooling to be able to be a Licensed Acupuncture Physician. We learned about this approach in acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from day 1 in school. After completing these 4 years of schooling, I had to take 5 medical board exams in order to perform acupuncture and dry needling on a patient. In addition, I have completed extensive post graduate training in sports medicine, orthopedics and specifically trigger point acupuncture (dry needling). I am explaining all of this just to illustrate the drastic difference in education and expertise. As acupuncturists, we went to school to learn how to use needles safely and effectively. For acupuncturist, needling IS our passion, focus, and preferred treatment modality. We are experts of acupuncture, dry needling, and Chinese Medicine.

Seeing the Experts with a Collaborative Healthcare Approach

I highly value and respect what PTs and chiropractors do in terms of their treatment approaches, their training and education, and their areas of expertise. I refer to them on a regular basis as our work all compliments each other. I find greater success when patients are incorporating in multiple treatment approaches with each of us providing the care that we specialize in. Collaborative healthcare is an approach that is critical to provide treatment that keeps in line with best practices and to ensure our patients get the best treatment they deserve.

As an acupuncturist I absolutely LOVE what I do. Acupuncture and using needles as my tool IS my passion. I LOVE helping people live their best life. I LOVE helping people get back to what they LOVE doing. I LOVE the anatomy and mechanics of the body, I LOVE working with athletes and anyone wanting to be proactive with their health. I LOVE Chinese Medicine, the theory, the approach, and the balanced approach that is rooted in nature. I LOVE that Chines Medicine keeps the connection of mind, body, and heart at the forefront of the medicine. Being an acupuncturist is WHO I am, it is WHAT I do, and it is a part of me! If you are interested in dry needling, I highly suggest you see an acupuncturist for your acupuncture or needling needs and desires. After all, we chose this medicine as our primary tool as it is our love, passion, and preference, and that is what makes a very noticeable difference in your treatment and outcomes!

If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment or you’d like more information, please contact me.

[cahootings]

I asked my PT today the main differences between dry needling and acupuncture and she made the same face I make when people ask me about astronomy vs astrology

[ener-chi]

I'm going to try and journal on here more often!! It will be filled with my thoughts and ruminations on things, irl stuff, energy work musings and techniques, and spirit work and astral stories. You can read them and more in the #journal tag.

Anywho, read below the cut for: TL;DR observations from acupuncture today, finding out my school might be closing, and guided vs dragged and a reminder to myself to be intentional

I've had the flu (or at least I'm pretty sure what that is) this week, and today is the best I've felt all week. Still was having a slight fever and some cough/congestion, so I went in for acupuncture at my school. Some fun tidbits from my session today:

-TCM diagnosis is an External Heat Invasion, which is what I totally guessed it was! I'm learning (:

-When I had ST36 needled, on both sides my entire stomach/abdomen immediately warmed and lit up, which is a new sensation. Fun fact: ST36 is called "The Ruler of the Abdomen"

-Had my GB20 needled, which felt amazinggg but ouchy it was very tender after. I am interested in doing a Cranial Sacral Technique and some Reiki on this point, and will update more when I do this

-LR3 hurt like a b, which it normally doesn't for me (this is a very commonly used point), and my intern said it was cuz of the heat, which would make sense. (Also everyone at my school calls points that are painful "spicy" which made me laugh cuz the pun of spicy and heat. Anywaysss)

-There's three points on the forearm that when used together are called "Buddha's Triangle." Had it done today for the first time and it was super relaxing actually

Don't really have much more interesting stuff to report from that, aside from what I normally feel. It's always so wild to me to feel the energy pathways connecting to each other when needles are placed in them, like circuits connecting.

Speaking of acupuncture, now for some irl stuff. We all learned some grave news yesterday - there is a good chance that my school will be closing later this year.

Since the pandemic, the enrollment at my school has been incredibly low. My cohort and the year above me only have about 20 people - my school used to average 40-60 people per year.

Because tuition is my schools biggest source of income, these lower numbers puts them in hot water. Don't need to go into incredible detail, but that plus rising costs and the fact that the area the school is in is super rough, which makes it difficult to sell - things are not looking good.

Our president said that it's not guaranteed that the school will close, just a last-ditch option. But my intuition is saying that it will close.

I've had a lot of thoughts and emotions about this. I mean... coming to this school and studying TCM has been a goal of mine for like. 7 years. It's the whole reason I moved up here in the first place.

Naturally, I was upset and panicked to learn this. But after digging into it, it's because I had tied part of my identity to this. Like in the way that people associate "what you do" as a part of you - I had associated going to this school and studying TCM as a big part of my identity and who I am as a person. And when that was threatened to not be a thing anymore, my ego got scared. Who am I if I don't do that? What will I do?

But it reminded me that I am much more than what I do. And something else that I've been realizing and remembering the past couple weeks - the reason I came to this school was to learn about Energy, and Qi.

At the end of the day, that's what I care about. It doesn't necessarily have to be with TCM - acupuncture was just my jumping off point, as it was the first way I experienced Energy in that way, in a way that was also structured.

And so, if this is the Universe redirecting me elsewhere, I'm still having some emotions about it all, but I will do my best to welcome and roll with the change.

That being said, I'm not necessarily being totally hung out to dry. It's not official and there is no information about it yet, but if the school does close, I think they legally have to offer a "teach out" option, which basically means that another school would adopt us and help us finish our degree. So. We'll see what happens.

One other thing that I realized today, is: "In order to be guided, you have to be moving in the first place." You can't expect to be guided or helped without putting in any work or energy or intention yourself. That's not being guided or helped - that's being dragged. And while the Universe does do that sometimes, it rarely does.

So a reminder to myself - stop sitting and start walking, take initiative, be intentional, and stop waiting for confirmation before action, and instead act and let the Universe provide input and correction if necessary.

That's it for now! Hope everyone has a good night!

Blessings!

[beauty-aura]

Dry Needling vs Acupuncture: Unraveling the Threads of Pain Relief

[acupunctureworksllc]

Three Steps to Keep Winter Allergies at Bay

You might think that the cold winter season would bring relief for seasonal allergy sufferers, however, it just brings about a different set of indoor allergens. As those colder temperatures become the norm, people tend to spend more time indoors which brings them into contact with indoor allergens. 

Inside Allergy Triggers

These indoor allergy triggers have likely been in your house all year, but when you hibernate inside during the colder months with the windows closed and the heat on, they tend to become more pronounced. Some of the major triggers include dust particles, mold and mildew, and pet dander. 

Perhaps the most unique winter allergy that really is a part of the season is Christmas tree allergies. This can be a complex problem as it could be an allergy to pine (or the tree itself) or the tree could be covered in allergens like pollen or mold spores. If you are sensitive to smells, the strong odor might be an issue throughout the Christmas season. 

Outside Allergy Triggers

If you live in a wet and rainy area, outdoor mold can begin to form in late winter and early Spring. Much like an allergy to pine, cedar pollen can create havoc for people sensitive to this allergen. Cedar is largely contained in the areas of Southern Missouri, Oklahoma, central and western Texas and Northern Mexico. This allergy is often referred to as “cedar fever.” The cedar pollinates from December through March and can sometimes release so much pollen it looks like the trees are emitting smoke. 

Allergy Symptoms vs. Cold Symptoms

Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if you are suffering from allergies or a cold as some of the symptoms might be the same or similar. Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, a stuffy or runny nose, itchy eyes, ears, or throat, dry coughing, or a low-grade fever. In severe cases, symptoms can be related to asthma and include chest tightness, wheezing, rapid breathing, and feelings of exhaustion.

The way to tell the difference between allergies and a cold is to examine the source. Colds come from a virus that is passed by someone infected with it. Once your body fights off the infection, the cold symptoms end. Allergies come from your body’s release of histamine as a response to the allergens. Symptoms will persist if you are breathing in the allergens. 

Treatment Options

There are many different treatment options depending on the severity of the symptoms. Over-the-counter antihistamines are a common course of action for many allergy sufferers. Nasal irrigation or using distilled water to flush out nasal passages, is another option. Nasal sprays are also common and for those who have severe symptoms, allergy shots are an option. 

If you are looking for a drug-free alternative, acupuncture has also been proven a successful treatment option. As a general assessment, typical allergy acupuncture treatments will involve weekly or twice-weekly appointments spanning several weeks or even months depending on the symptoms. Your acupuncturist can then determine if annual or semi-annual treatments are needed to maintain results. 

The root cause of allergies is different for everyone. Another option your acupuncturist might explore with you is to add herbal formulas to your treatment plan as this can greatly increase the efficacy of the treatments. Adding herbal formulas along with the traditional needle treatment can be an effective one-two punch for treating winter allergies. 

Prevention

Some easy steps to take as you head into the cold winter months is to regularly wash clothes, bedding, and any removeable upholstery covers. This helps to reduce the pet dander and dust build up. Regularly vacuum your home and in severe cases, you might want to think about removing carpet and replacing it with tile or wood flooring. Seal any cracks or openings near windows and doors and fix any leaks so mold doesn’t have the chance to form. Do what you can to limit exposure and keep your environment allergen free so you can feel better overall.

Three Steps to Keep Winter Allergies at Bay was last modified: December 12th, 2022 by admin

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[abetterpacels]

What are the Differences Between Acupuncture & Dry Needling? | Why Acupu...

[expertjointcare]

10 Tips To Treat Knee Pain

1. Knee pain is never normal

The purpose of the knee is to help you support weight and absorb shock when moving. A healthy knee is strong and painless with a good range of motion. If you experience pain in your knee, the "no pain or gain" mentality does not do you any good. In fact, fighting knee pain instead of working to heal and prevent it can cause more long-term pain. For example, ignoring the knee pain that results from a torn ligament may increase your chance of early onset arthritis.

 2. Do not make assumptions about the cause of the pain

It is easy to reach conclusions when you experience knee pain. If you are young, active and have a sports-related injury, you may assume that you have a problem with the anterior cruciate ligament, commonly known as ACL. If you're over 50, you can assume it's arthritis. While those are common, there are many other causes of knee pain. Identifying the true cause is the key to successful treatment.

 3. Traumatic pain vs. not traumatic

A traumatic cause of pain in the knee is usually a specific event that you can point out, such as your knee bending when you improperly plant your foot while running or playing sports.

A non-traumatic cause is something that accumulates. If you play with your friends every week or do small but repetitive movements in your exercise routine, you may develop a pain that gets worse over time. Obesity is another non-traumatic cause of pain because excess weight adds continuous stress to the knees.

Non-traumatic knee pain can be as serious as a traumatic injury.

4. Inflammation is a common culprit

Inflammation is one of the most common sources of knee pain. The tissues in your knee can become inflamed after being forced or torn, or when the cartilage wears out and causes the bone to bone friction. Treatment for knee pain usually begins with control and decreased inflammation.

5. Control inflammation with R.I.C.E.

Following R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compression, elevation) with your knee, two or three times a day will help reduce inflammation. Each step has a role:

Rest: Resting the knee gives you a break from any irritating or aggravating activity that is causing the inflammation.

Ice: ice formation in the knee for 15 minutes reduces inflammation by restricting blood flow. It also acts as an anesthetic, numbs or relieves pain.

Compression: compressing the knee with a tight bandage or bandage restricts excess blood flow and heat in the area.

Elevate: Raising the knee and leg above your heart increases the flow of blood back to your heart, eliminating excess blood from the knee and allowing it to recirculate faster.

Your doctor may also recommend taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication or to relieve pain for a short period of time.

6. Signs that you should see someone about that knee pain

If you experience pain or swelling without any trauma to the knee, you can try R.I.C.E. From seven to 14 days. If the pain does not go away, consider seeing a physiotherapist. In most cases, you do not need a medical reference, although it is always best to check with your health insurance plan to be sure.

If you experience a traumatic knee injury, hear a crack or crack, or if you have difficulty putting weight on your knee, you should consult a doctor to rule out something serious like a ligament injury or a fracture.

Knees You can take yours for granted until you hurt one. Knee pain can quickly make common movements difficult or even unbearable.

Brianna Bren and Rob Himmerick are specialists when it comes to knees. Both are physiotherapists from the Institute of Athletic Medicine and work with patients to help heal and prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Here are his best tips for understanding and treating knee pain.

7. Physiotherapy - more than a Google search

Physical therapy is a proven way to relieve pain, restore full function of your muscles and joints and prevent injuries from returning.

Physiotherapists are experts in anatomy and biomechanics. They can help identify the source of your knee pain and teach you what to do, and what not to do, to be free of pain. They can also help you return to a certain activity, sport or function by teaching you how to progress safely.

Some people are skeptical when it comes to testing physical therapy if they have not had a specific injury or surgery and turn to Internet advice. While some videos and articles provide excellent descriptions of how to develop strength and maintain flexibility in a given body part, they can not diagnose the specific source of your knee pain and are not a substitute for the personalized instruction you need to address the source of your pain.

8. Point out the problem

Different parts of your knee can cause different types of pain and discomfort. By listening to their symptoms and analyzing their movement, a physiotherapist can focus on the problem and recommend a recovery strategy. Here are some examples of sources of knee pain and possible symptoms:

Bone or cartilage: Sensation of entrapment and blockage; The knee gets stuck in a certain position; difficulty straightening or bending the knee; range of motion blocked; The pain is usually below the patella or in the depth of the joint.

Ligaments: feeling of instability, as if your knee wanted to give.

Tendons: no pain or minimal pain at rest or lower levels of activity, but more pain with more intense activity; You can touch exactly where it hurts; The pain is right in the front of the knee joint.

Muscles: the pain is above or below the knee joint.

Nerves: If there is the pain in the knee without swelling or instability, it could be related to back pain and compression of the nerves in the lower back or hip. This type of pain is usually based on your position, as when you lean forward.

Bursa: pain gets worse with activity; The pain gets worse with the first steps before loosening up and feeling better. This could point to the bag, which is like a cushion around the tendons and bones that prevents them from rubbing.

Depending on the source of pain, physical therapy sessions at the Institute of Athletic Medicine generally involve 40 minutes of one-on-one interaction and additional treatment methods such as electrical stimulation, ice and compression machines, recording techniques, dry needling (similar to acupuncture), or blood flow restriction training.

Many of our patients find a significant difference in pain levels in only four to six sessions.

9. Prevent knee pain from returning

The best way to prevent pain or knee injuries from returning is to take an adequate course of physical therapy, followed by staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting excessive stress on the knees.

Before the physical activity, make sure you are heating up the correct mechanics in your body. Athletes looking to avoid knee injuries should consider pre-season conditioning programs to focus on core strength and landing mechanics. For older adults, especially those with arthritis, remember that "movement is a lotion." A consistent and comfortable movement is therapeutic for the knees and can help prevent pain.

10. Keep your knees strong

The strength of the knee is not just about the muscles of your quad and the hamstring muscles. The stronger you are in your hips and in your center, the less force goes through your knees when you move. If you want to increase the strength in your knees by targeting certain muscles, be sure to include your glutes and core muscles in your exercise routines.

[deoleo]

Acupuncture Chinese Medicine Doctor in San Jose

Acupuncture: a traditional role player

Meaning of acupuncture

Acupuncture is a method involving insertion of very thin, metallic needles through the skin at specified points and serves as an alternative to medicines. It helps in treating the pain that may arise due to unknown or unnoticed causes. Illnesses like migraine, fibrillation, headache etc. are treated easily without the need for carrying a handful of medicines. Not only does it relieve pain, but also helps in maintaining body wellness and reduces the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Benefits of acupuncture

Acupuncture is a practice of ancient Chinese medicine. The practitioners at that time, having conducted lots of searches, believed that human body has many acupuncture points that were known to be connected by pathways. Modern studies also emphasis on the effectiveness of acupuncture practices after it was well tested and proved in reality. As such, the merits of acupuncture in detail are discussed as follows:

·     Acupuncture helps in relieving dental pain and ensures sound gem health.

·     Women and girls in teenage experience menstrual cramps that work as a hurdle towards routine normal life. Acupuncture works on to reduce pain connected with periods.

·     It also slows the rate of respiratory illnesses and helps to prevent allergic rhinitis.

·     Acupuncture costs are very low. These vary from session to session. For a 45 minutes session, experts charge $85.

·     An acupuncture points chart can be viewed to know where to insert the needle for a particular illness.

Does acupuncture work?

Majority of patients start feeling the signs of improvements after taking one to three treatments. This doesn’t mean that their symptoms completely vanish, only some of the symptoms which trouble the ordinary life, become less and patients start living their routine as before. Some people may require more acupuncture treatments than the aforesaid, depending on the severity of the illness.

How does acupuncture work?

While learning about the acupuncture process, the following stages needed to be kept in mind.

1.   Relief Stage:

   At this stage, the patients begin to feel changes in terms of previous symptoms like discomfort, stress, anxiety, weakness etc. Patients are given acupuncture 3 to 5 times a week at this stage. When patients respond positively to acupuncture and consistently feel relief, they move on to next stage.

2.   Healing stage:

   At this stage, the body allows a framework for making self-corrections as well as repairing the root causes of the symptoms. In this stage, patient receives acupuncture two times a week.

3.  Maintenance stage:

  At this stage, the patient is given treatment once in a week. This helps body maintain sound health and keep the symptoms away.

Dry needling vs Acupuncture

·     Acupuncture is conducted to treat issues related to internal body functioning like stress, allergies, whereas dry needling is used for treating the pain associated with muscles.

·     Acupuncture is a practice which is backed by detailed research and is regulative in nature, whereas dry needling is a newly emerged practice involving no formal regulations. It is something which has not yet established properly.

[drandrewstherapeuticblogs]

Is acupuncture and dry needling the same?

Needles are inserted into the skin during both of these alternative medical treatments yet acupuncture and dry needling are not equivalent. They are used to treat various ailments, but they are based on various theories.

Thin needles are inserted into specific body points, or "acupoints," during the practice of acupuncture, a form of traditional Chinese medicine. To a depth of up to a few centimeters, the needles are inserted. The idea behind acupuncture is that it can aid in reestablishing balance in the body's vital energy, known as Qi, and thereby encourage healing. Chronic pain, headaches, and infertility are just a few of the ailments that are frequently treated with acupuncture.

while physical therapists and other healthcare professionals developed the modern technique of dry needling. To treat them, thin needles are inserted into painful, tight, and muscle-filled trigger points. Only a few millimeters of the skin are penetrated by the needles. Dry needling is based on the idea that it can ease pain and muscle tension. Sports injuries, migraines, and other ailments like chronic pain are frequently treated with dry needling.

The initial consultation with a healthcare professional who has received dry needling training is the first step. The doctor will ask the patient. What is acupuncture good for? In order to balance the flow of energy, known as Qi, thin needles are inserted into specific points on the body during acupuncture, a form of traditional Chinese medicine. It is thought to benefit a number of ailments, such as pain, infertility, anxiety, and depression. Studies have also suggested that it might be beneficial for ailments like osteoarthritis, nausea, and migraines. To fully comprehend the efficacy and potential risks of acupuncture, more research is necessary.

What is dry needling good for?

Thin needles are inserted into the skin using a technique called dry needling to stimulate the muscles beneath the skin. Applying pressure to particular points on the body known as trigger points is a component of trigger point therapy, a type of bodywork. Other parts of the body may experience pain and discomfort as a result of these tight and knotted muscle areas. Dry needling is not the same as acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles and uses needles to balance the body's energy flow. This distinction is crucial. Western principles of anatomy and neurophysiology serve as the foundation for dry needling.

[elevatewellness-stpete]

Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture

I can’t tell you how many times a week I have a conversation with someone that starts like this…

“Have you ever had acupuncture?”

“No. I have only ever had dry needling”

I also get asked multiple times per week “What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling”. As an acupuncturist, I found that I used to struggle with how to answer this as it is complex in many ways. My hope is that the information below makes it easier to understand and helps to provide even a small amount of education to anyone that is interested in this modality of treatment.

Acupuncture VS Dry Needling

Is dry needling and acupuncture the same thing? Yes AND No. Let me start by saying that what I have found is that recently the term dry needling indicates more about WHO is performing this style of needling as Chiropractors and Physical Therapists have been lobbying state by state to be approved to do “dry needling” as they can not say that they do acupuncture due to regulations around scope of practice. As this is an important part of the conversation, I will address this more below.

In terms of the treatment modality itself, historically, dry needling IS acupuncture. The practitioner is using acupuncture needles to treat trigger points, which acupuncturists have treated for thousands of years. Acupuncturists have called these trigger points “ashi” points or local points. Acupuncturists will use the terms dry needling, trigger points, “ashi” points, or local points interchangeably to indicate a style of acupuncture that they will incorporate into a treatment but it is often not the only style of acupuncture they will use. At the same time, the term dry needling and acupuncture are completely different in many respects. The differences include the training required to do it, the understanding of the needle and its relationship with anatomy, the functions of the meridians, Qi and energy, the passion behind it, and the approach.

While I often use trigger point acupuncture or dry needling into my treatments, I am also incorporating in other styles of acupuncture and treatment modalities. This includes manual therapy like cupping and gua sha, as well as acupuncture points that help to treat any other health conditions or underlying imbalances to optimize health, address any additional health concerns someone might be dealing with, improve athletic performance, recovery, and prevent injuries that someone might be prone to. As an acupuncturist, I treat the WHOLE person every time they walk into the clinic.

Acupuncture has gained wide acceptance for its effectiveness to treat many pain conditions and injuries. When pain or an injury brings someone into the clinic they often don’t realize how many things acupuncture can treat and they don’t realize that we are Primary Care Providers. I often have patients ask “can acupuncture help with…” and fill in the blank. The answer is generally YES! For example, in addition to treating your injury or pain, in the same treatment I can also do acupuncture for your allergies, digestive symptoms, struggles with sleep, anxiety and stress, as well as many other health concerns. In Chinese Medicine, it is all connected and it is why I LOVE this medicine.

Training and Approach

Dry needling is a term that has gotten a lot of attention and it has been adopted by Physical Therapists and Chiropractors to drive legislation that allows them to use this one technique in their practices. This is an area that really sets acupuncture and dry needling apart in terms of who is performing it. No matter who you see for this type of treatment, I believe it is important to understand the training that someone receives so that you can make an educated decision about who you see for treatment.

While PTs and chiropractors can advertise that they do dry needling, they can not claim that they do acupuncture. For dry needling, the required training for physical therapists and chiropractors is a weekend course. In contrast, as an acupuncturist, I had to complete 4 years of schooling to be able to be a Licensed Acupuncture Physician. We learned about this approach in acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from day 1 in school. After completing these 4 years of schooling, I had to take 5 medical board exams in order to perform acupuncture and dry needling on a patient. In addition, I have completed extensive post-graduate training in sports medicine, orthopedics, and specific trigger point acupuncture (dry needling). I am explaining all of this just to illustrate the drastic difference in education and expertise. As acupuncturists, we went to school to learn how to use needles safely and effectively. For acupuncturists, needling IS our passion, focus, and preferred treatment modality. We are experts in acupuncture, dry needling, and Chinese Medicine.

Seeing the Experts with a Collaborative Healthcare Approach

I highly value and respect what PTs and chiropractors do in terms of their treatment approaches, their training and education, and their areas of expertise. I refer to them on a regular basis as our work all compliments each other. I find greater success when patients are incorporating multiple treatment approaches with each of us providing the care that we specialize in. Collaborative healthcare is an approach that is critical to provide treatment that keeps in line with best practices and to ensure our patients get the best treatment they deserve.

As an acupuncturist, I absolutely LOVE what I do. Acupuncture and using needles as my tool IS my passion. I LOVE helping people live their best life. I LOVE helping people get back to what they LOVE doing. I LOVE the anatomy and mechanics of the body, I LOVE working with athletes and anyone wanting to be proactive with their health. I LOVE Chinese Medicine, the theory, the approach, and the balanced approach that is rooted in nature. I LOVE that Chines Medicine keeps the connection of mind, body, and heart at the forefront of medicine. Being an acupuncturist is WHO I am, it is WHAT I do, and it is a part of me! If you are interested in dry needling, I highly suggest you see an acupuncturist for your acupuncture or needling needs and desires. After all, we chose this medicine as our primary tool as it is our love, passion, and preference, and that is what makes a very noticeable difference in your treatment and outcomes!

If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment or you’d like more information, please contact me.

[aironphysicaltherapy-blog]

You might have already heard about acupuncture but do you know that there is another practice that is often confused with it especially when you just look at them through images or photos? This practice is called dry needling therapy.

[xmasqoo-haineke]

[echocardiogram]

So recently I shared some information with a fellow pain sufferer, and she found this information useful, so I thought I’d put it out here for everyone else.  A bit of background: I’m 21, I’ve been dealing with worsening chronic pain since I was 11. I was originally told it was all psychosomatic, it wasn’t. I had been given diagnoses of Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, but they just didn’t cover all the bases of what I was dealing with, and treatment for those conditions did NOTHING for me. Testing revealed that I am either Narcoleptic or have a Circadian Rhythm Disorder (but that doctor was a jerk, so I’m not actively dealing with that aspect of my health). Testing ruled out Lupus, POTS, Lyme, various heart conditions, thyroid issues, and many autoimmune disorders. I do have psoriasis. In January 2017, I got into an Infectious Disease Specialist. I have a Chronic Bartonella infection. Layman’s Terms: Catscratch Fever. Usually this presents as a co-infection of Lyme, but I do not have Lyme. My doctor is very familiar with treating Lyme and it’s co-infections, but to be honest he has no idea how to treat Bartonella on its own. And although I am receiving treatment for Bartonella, there is no guarantee that treatment will be 100% effective, or that Bartonella is the only issue I’m having. Once I’m done with treatment, I may still feel awful. I may still be in constant chronic pain and have unbearable fatigue.  

All of the above is unimportant to this post, I just want to give you guys some background here. I’ve jumped through all of the hoops. No matter where you are in your own medical saga NO ONE should have to be in constant pain. I spend an abnormal amount of my time looking for pain remedies; looking for anything that can help me function like a semi-normal human being. Currently, I’m not. I live with my parents, I don’t have a job, I am not attending college, I can’t even continue taking classes online. Hopefully after treating this Bartonella infection that will change, but until then c’est la vie.

By this point, you’ve probably heard all of the usual pain management ideas (and if you haven’t and would like info on one of these PLEASE message me): 

Heat (dry vs moist)

Ice

TENS machine (they make these for at home use now!)

Tiger Balm

Capsaicin Cream

Pain Killers (OTC vs prescription) 

Anti-Inflammatories

Muscle Relaxers (these require a prescription)

Combination use of Anti-Inflammatories and Muscle Relaxers

Essential Oils

Massage

Acupuncture

Epsom Salt Baths

Meditation

Yoga

Anti-Inflammatory Dieting

Curcumin Supplements  

For me, these work to various degrees on various days. And some don’t work at all: OTC pain meds are useless for me, ice makes me tense us and causes me more pain, I hate the scent of Tiger Balm, and acupuncture is out of the question as I have an issue with needles staying in my skin. 

As I said before, I spend an inordinate amount of time looking for pain management techniques. Here are three that are lesser known and personally provide me with a LOT of pain relief. 

DEEP BLUE

I use doTerra's Deep Blue lotion when I can't take medication that might make me loopy. (There's a whole line of Deep Blue products, so if lotion isn't your thing maybe others will work.) It's minty in smell, which doesn't bother me, but I could see how it might bother some. 

Whenever I have sore neck and shoulder muscles and can't take my meds I use this stuff. A little but rubbed into the areas that hurt usually does the trick. I've also found that when I'm having really bad headaches and even when I have migraines that putting a bit of it on my forehead, temples, around the eye-sockets, and on my upper cheeks really helps reduce any head pain. (I also put it on the area under my eyebrows right next to my nose- you know the area you pinch between your eyes, but do this VERY carefully cause you don't want this stuff in your eyes). If/when you put it on your face make sure you wash your face well that night, as it can cause breakouts. (Honestly worth it, in my opinion.) 

ACUPRESSURE MAT

I have an acupressure mat (mine in from the brand Spoonk). You can use these either lying down or sitting in a chair, so it might be good for work, depending on what you do. They look like torture devices (and when you first lay on it they FEEL like torture devices), but after a few minutes it makes me feel so much better. This helps with pain when I'm in it, helps recover from pain when I've overdone it, and also helps me sleep better. 

The mat I have is from Spoonk (https://spoonkspace.com/), but I got it on Amazon in a 3 piece set, that includes a large one (to lay on), a small one (for travel, or to roll up as a pillow) and a massage ball (it's amazing for working knots out of feet and legs). But Spoonk is by no means the only good mat. (It was just on sale when I was looking). 

So basically, it's this foam mat that has a cover which spiked discs are adhered to. The idea is that with enough spikes, if you lay on it, you will hit acupressure points in muscles, and it will relieve pain. 

I use this for back pain, I usually lay out my large mat, roll up the small one, and lay (bare skin) on the mat, with the roll under my neck. Some people find this sensation painful, and use a thin t-shirt to dull the sensation to a tolerable sensation. I like to lay the mat on a carpeted surface. But some people swear by hard surfaces, and others like to use it in bed. But this can also be used when in a chair. I usually lay on my mats for 15-20 minutes. I find this is enough to help reduce pain AND give me an energy boost. When I'm trying to get to sleep, or get good sleep, I end up laying on it for 45-60 minutes, and then I roll off the thing and crawl immediately in bed. (Try not to actually fall asleep on it. I did that once and woke up 2 hours later and my whole back was numb.) 

It doesn't necessarily make me sleep longer, but I wake up feeling like I slept better. Which in my book is a win. 

Depending on how sharp the spikes are, the first few seconds/minutes might be a bit uncomfortable. BUT if you stick through it the area you're using it on begins to warm up, unknot, and feel pleasantly fuzzy. It improves circulation to the area you're using it on, so some people like to gently lay their faces on it, lay on their stomachs (it's supposed to improve digestion, but I haven't tried this), sit on it, or even stand on it (IN SOCKS!). Standing on it in thick(ish) socks gives me a really nice energy boost. 

For me, the mat really helps AFTER I've been in pain. If I over do it and am already in pain or if I know I'm going to be in pain this does a great job of lessening the duration and amount of pain I'm in. Using it while sitting (15 minutes every hour or so as needed) helps to mitigate lower back pain (and shoulder pain if you can sit back against is).

KRATOM

This one's a little controversial.

In my state there are no laws against kratom, but in the US there is some talk of making it a controlled substance. If it's something you're interested in, I'll gladly give you all the information I have, as well as how I use it. BUT I urge you to check out the laws in your state/country. 

Kratom is still new to me. I've read what little medical information is available on it. But there isn't a ton, so a lot of my info comes from the reddit thread (https://www.reddit.com/r/kratom/). 

So basically, it's a plant from the coffee family. It grows in Southeast Asia. And the leaves are magical. It binds to the same receptors that opiates do. So it alleviates pain just like they do (it can also space you out like they do, and it can cause constipation like they do). I've had mixed accounts of "addiction". Strictly speaking, this stuff lacks the enzymes that cause addiction to opiates, BUT a lot of people become dependent on kratom. 

Different subspecies make different 'strains'. They're generally classified as red, white, and green strains. (This is supposed to pertain to the color of the vein running down the center of the leaf. BUT I also read that the color of the vein depends on the age of the leave, so take that with a grain of salt.) 

Red is supposedly better for pain, green for energy, and white for a mix of the two. Honestly, I don't experience a huge difference in the different strains, but again I'm new to it. I've ordered from one vendor. And I take a really small dose. 

It's easiest to order online. Some head shops carry kratom but it's not always good quality or fresh. 

I ordered from Gaia Ethnobotanical. They have a Welcome Sampler that's only $25 and gives you a chance to try five different strains. (One ounce of each!) 

I spent hours on reddit and google looking for the 'perfect' strains to order and ended up going with Bali Gold, Ganesh MD, Red Dragon, Elephant, and Super Green Malay. 

The only one I'm not thrilled with is Super Green Malay. It's not that it doesn't work, it does reduce pain and give me energy, it just doesn't seem to last as long for me. That being said a TON of people swear by this strain. 

They all work differently for different people. 

Now, (from my understanding) some of those strains are straight strains, meaning they come from a single type of plant. Some are mixes. Elephant and Ganesh MD are mixes, I believe their red/white mixes, but not that much info is given about them on the site...so I'm not 100% positive on that. HOWEVER, the guy who runs that site is SUPER good at responding to customers, so if you wanted to find out I'm sure emailing him would be fruitful. 

My favorite of the strains I ordered is Bali Gold. On the site it's classified as a 'gold' kratom. To be honest, I have no idea if that's another strain, or something unique to this retailer. 

I would encourage you to go through the reddit feed above. 

They have different feeds for ongoing sales and for individual retailers. If you find a good sale from a different vendor, look for what strains people recommend from them. 

Onto dosage. You can buy this stuff in leaf, powdered, capsule, or resin forms. Powder is my prefered method. It's easiest to customize what you're taking and exactly how much of it. (A lot of people like to mix strains.) 

Most people start with a 3 gram dose. That's supposed to be about 2.5 teaspoons of powder. This is supposed to last anywhere from 4-6 hours. Keep in mind that you CAN build a tolerance to this, so start low. And try to switch up on which strains you're taking. (This is supposed to keep you from becoming tolerant to a strain.) 

Personally, I don't use kratom everyday. But I do use it nearly everyday. And I rarely have to take multiple doses of it. I wanted to start as low as possible so I started with 1/2 teaspoon. It's enough to nearly eliminate all pain, doesn't make my head fuzzy like large doses of opiates do, leaves me fully capable of functioning cognitively, and gives me a nice energy boost. Granted I'm also a small person. But my point is start low. The first few times you take it start with a low dose, give it 30-45 minutes, and if you aren't pleased with the results take a bit more. The lower the dose you need to function the longer an order will last you. Plus with smaller doses you're less likely to become dependent.

As for how to take it, there are dozens of ways. And that reddit thread is FULL of them. 

I tried mixing it with water and just sucking it down. It's a pain because this stuff is not water soluble, so it sticks to the side of the glass and it takes a ton of effort to take all of it. Some people make it into a tea. Personally, I don't mind the taste, but this is not a good option if you don't like it. You can also mix the kratom tea and another to make it taste better, but it still tastes pretty gross. Some people do this and then throw away the grounds, but eating them makes it work better so this seemed silly to me. You can mix it with juice, water, whatever. Some people have an upset stomach when actually ingesting the leaves, so it might be good to eat some crackers with it. Otherwise, I suggest taking it on an empty stomach if you can (that said, with chronic pain you can't always wait, so just take it if you need to), it helps your body absorb it quicker. When I take it on an empty stomach I start feeling better in 15 minutes. I also don't experience an upset stomach with it. A lot of users recommend a snack about 30 minutes after taking it. 

Personally, I take my 1/2 teaspoon with a glass of chocolate almond milk (regular milk is fine, I just hate it). The chocolate masks the taste pretty well. I usually scoop out my dose into a little bowl and then shake it into my mouth (under my tongue) a little at a time. Then I take a drink of chocolate milk, and basically rinse my mouth with it before swallowing.

A lot of people swear by mixing it into chocolate milk. Supposedly the consistency of the milk is better and it doesn't stick to the glass, but I was not successful with this. 

Any way you do it, be careful not to breath the powder in. It's like cinnamon in texture, and you will cough whatever is in your mouth all over the place. It's not pleasant. 

For me, 1/2 teaspoon usually keeps me in minimal pain for 4-5 hours. Which is usually long enough to make it through whatever I need to finish. I usually take this stuff after I am already IN pain. (No foresight on my part!) It works quickly, and lasts longer than some of my prescribed meds. I should also note that I've heard some people take like 10 grams at once (so almost 10 teaspoons), multiple times a day. I couldn't find ANY evidence of overdosing, (but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen! so use common sense and good judgement!) so if you need to take it multiple times a day, or take a larger does there's no big issue there. As long as you can function on it, you should be totally fine.

LEGAL ASPECT. In the United States there was a bill proposed in December to make it a controlled substance, but it was halted due to public outcry, and I haven't heard anything new on it yet. Some states have their own regulations on kratom, so do a little research to find out about your state. 

Additionally. From everything I've read and everything I've discussed with my own doctor, this stuff shouldn't show up on drug tests. So that's also a plus.

So yeah, these are three of the more out there ways I cope with pain. If you want more information on ANYTHING above please message me. I hope this helps! 

(I only sort of apologize for how long this is.)

[drbenlee]

What Are The Benefits Of Dry Needling Therapy?

What is dry needling therapy? This article will talk about the process of dry needling and the possible benefits it can provide. After reading the article, check out Wayne Massage Sydney’s official website to get more information about dry needling and other massage techniques to help relieve stress.

What is dry needling?

Dry needling is an alternative type of treatment that aims to treat muscle pains and stiffness. Pain and muscle relief is achieved by the insertion of Filiform needles into various trigger points throughout the body. These needles do not inject any fluid into the body, thus how the name “dry” needling was coined.

The needles serve as a form of muscle stimulation. The trigger points are parts of the body that are experiencing muscle stiffness and pain. These muscles are usually hard or have knots that can be loosened and stimulated by the dry needles. The stubborn knots in the flesh traditionally become undone after a short time of the needles being inserted. The amount of time of the dry needling session usually depends on the therapist giving the treatment.

Dry needling VS Acupuncture

Is there a difference between dry needling therapy and acupuncture? Or are they the same technique called by different names? The answer is that the two treatment methods are not the same. Although both ways implore the use of needles, they each have their unique characteristics.

Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. It is used to relieve pain and discomfort by tapping into a person’s inner energy and chi by using needles. On the other hand, dry needling therapy also uses needles to relieve aches and pains. But the process is different, as it uses the needles to undo knots in the muscles that are causing pain.

Benefits of dry needling therapy

Dry needling has many benefits. Here is a list of the possible benefits a person can have after having a dry needling therapy session.

Relief from muscle and joint pains

Dry needling can offer assistance for muscle and joint pains. People who suffer from joint aches and muscle pains can benefit from dry needling as the needles target muscles that are hard and knotted up and work to release the knots.

Improvement of flexibility

The process of dry needling can loosen stiff joints and improve the person’s range of motion. The restriction of the range of motion is caused by muscles that are stiff and hard. The needles will relieve the hardness of these muscles and help a person regain the normal range of motion in their muscles and joints.

Pain relief from sports injuries

If a person has injuries that were sustained through the practice of a certain type of sport, dry needling can also help them achieve comfort from that pain.

  If you are thinking about having a dry needling session, but are unsure if it is safe, consult your doctor first. They will be able to advise you on any risks involved, especially if you are suffering from any diseases that may be affected by the treatment.

  from Dr Ben Lee http://drbenlee.com/dry-needling-therapy/ via IFTTT