by Ginnette Diaz, L.Ac.
Musculoskeletal pain is one of the most common types of discomfort, affecting millions of people worldwide. Whether it's due to poor posture, injury, repetitive stress, or aging, pain in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints can significantly impact daily life. Acupuncture is a natural and effective approach to managing musculoskeletal dysfunction and improving quality of life.
Understanding Musculoskeletal Dysfunction
Musculoskeletal dysfunction often results from imbalances in the body that lead to pain, inflammation, stiffness, and limited range of motion. These issues might stem from factors like muscle imbalances, nerve impingements, or restricted blood flow in certain areas. Acupuncture aims to address these underlying imbalances, helping to restore the body's natural alignment and reduce the need for constant pain management.
How Acupuncture Helps with Musculoskeletal Pain
Promotes Blood Flow and Tissue Repair
One of the most immediate benefits of acupuncture is its ability to increase blood flow to targeted areas. Improved blood circulation means more oxygen and nutrients reach the affected muscles and tissues, supporting their natural repair processes. Enhanced circulation also helps flush out inflammatory substances that contribute to pain and swelling, helping the body to recover more efficiently.
Releases Natural Pain-Relieving Chemicals
Acupuncture stimulates the release of the body’s natural painkillers, known as endorphins. These chemicals act as natural analgesics, reducing pain perception without the side effects often associated with medication. Studies show that people who receive acupuncture experience a significant decrease in pain levels, which can be especially beneficial for those dealing with chronic musculoskeletal discomfort.
Reduces Inflammation
Chronic inflammation can lead to persistent pain and stiffness in the muscles and joints. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce inflammation by modulating the body’s immune response, which can alleviate the discomfort associated with inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis. By calming inflammation, acupuncture can help make daily movements less painful, giving individuals more freedom and flexibility.
Improves Nerve Function
When nerves become compressed or irritated, they can cause radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the muscles. Acupuncture can help improve nerve function by reducing muscle tension and enhancing blood flow around nerve pathways. This can relieve the pressure on nerves and alleviate the symptoms of nerve-related musculoskeletal issues like sciatica or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Research Spotlight: Acupuncture and Musculoskeletal Pain
A 2018 study published in Pain Medicine evaluated the effectiveness of acupuncture in patients suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain. This study included participants with back pain, knee pain, and shoulder pain—some of the most common areas of musculoskeletal dysfunction. The researchers found that after a series of acupuncture treatments, participants reported a significant reduction in pain levels, as well as improved function and mobility in the affected areas. Furthermore, these benefits were maintained for several weeks post-treatment, suggesting that acupuncture has both immediate and lasting effects on pain relief and mobility.
The researchers concluded that acupuncture could be a safe and effective treatment option for managing chronic musculoskeletal pain, especially for individuals looking to reduce their reliance on medication or avoid invasive procedures.
What to Expect in a Session for Musculoskeletal Pain
We first start off with a consultation to discuss your condition and treatment plan. At your treatment, we will assess your specific pain areas, movement limitations, and any underlying imbalances. Fine, sterile needles are then gently inserted into targeted points to stimulate the body’s healing processes. While some people notice benefits after just few sessions, chronic conditions often require multiple sessions to achieve lasting relief.
Take the First Step Towards Pain Relief
If you're dealing with persistent musculoskeletal pain and seeking a natural, approach to relief, acupuncture is the solution you’re looking for. At our clinic, we specialize in personalized treatments designed to address the root causes of pain and restore balance to your body.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation: (914) 354-0333
Learn more about how acupuncture can help you achieve lasting pain relief and regain freedom in your movements. Your path to pain relief and improved mobility starts here!
by Ginnette Diaz, L.Ac.Acupuncture for Digestive Health
Digestive issues, such as bloating, constipation, acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), are incredibly common and can disrupt daily life. Acupuncture is a natural, effective way to support digestive health. Acupuncture may seem surprising as a remedy for digestion, but research shows it can have a positive impact on the gut.
Let's explore how acupuncture supports the digestive system and highlight some studies that back up its effectiveness.
1. Balancing the Body’s Stress Response
One of the key ways acupuncture can help with digestion is by regulating the body’s stress response. Stress significantly affects the digestive system, leading to symptoms like acid reflux, constipation, and even food intolerances. Studies suggest that acupuncture helps by calming the nervous system, reducing stress hormones like cortisol, and boosting the release of feel-good hormones like serotonin and endorphins.
In a 2017 study published in Autonomic Neuroscience, researchers found that acupuncture could decrease the body's stress response, which, in turn, helped with digestive issues like IBS and bloating. Participants who received acupuncture reported a noticeable reduction in their stress-related symptoms and overall improved well-being.
2. Enhancing Digestive Motility
“Motility” refers to the digestive system’s ability to move food through the stomach and intestines. When motility is too slow or too fast, people experience issues such as constipation or diarrhea. Acupuncture can help regulate motility by promoting blood flow and encouraging healthy muscle contractions in the digestive tract.
A study published in Neurogastroenterology & Motility in 2015 focused on the impact of acupuncture on patients with slow-transit constipation, a condition where the colon does not move waste through effectively. The study showed that acupuncture improved motility and reduced symptoms, making it easier for patients to have regular, healthy bowel movements. This study adds to the growing evidence that acupuncture could be a viable option for people with chronic constipation.
3. Reducing Inflammation in the Digestive Tract
Chronic inflammation in the digestive tract can lead to conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and IBS. Acupuncture has anti-inflammatory effects that can help calm the digestive system and support healing from inflammatory digestive conditions.
A 2019 study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that regular acupuncture sessions reduced inflammatory markers in people with IBS, and participants experienced fewer symptoms. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could be an effective supplementary treatment for people with inflammatory digestive issues, helping to reduce discomfort and improve quality of life.
4. Regulating Gut Microbiota
Our digestive health is deeply connected to the trillions of bacteria living in the gut, known as gut microbiota. These bacteria play a critical role in digestion, immunity, and even mood regulation. Disruptions in gut bacteria are often linked to digestive problems, including gas, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.
Recent studies have started to explore the impact of acupuncture on gut microbiota. Research from 2020 published in Frontiers in Physiology found that acupuncture could positively influence the diversity and balance of gut bacteria in people with IBS. Although more research is needed to fully understand how acupuncture affects gut bacteria, the findings suggest it may help cultivate a healthier environment in the gut, supporting overall digestive health.
5. Alleviating Nausea and Acid Reflux
Acid reflux and nausea are two common symptoms that can make eating and digestion uncomfortable. Research shows that acupuncture can alleviate these symptoms, offering a natural approach to manage them. For nausea, acupuncture seems particularly effective, as it stimulates certain points that help reduce the sensation of nausea and ease stomach discomfort.
A study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management in 2018 found that acupuncture was effective for reducing nausea in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Although this study was not focused solely on digestive health, it demonstrates acupuncture's impact on nausea. Patients with acid reflux also reported less discomfort after receiving acupuncture, suggesting it could be beneficial for people dealing with GERD and other reflux issues.
How Acupuncture Treatment Can Support Digestive Health
Each acupuncture session is tailored to the individual’s symptoms and needs. We start with a consultation to understand your unique digestive challenges. Treatment will then focus on specific points that correspond to areas of the body related to the digestive system. Many people begin to notice improvements after a few sessions, though consistent treatments over time tend to yield the best results.
Final Thoughts
Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to supporting digestive health, addressing stress, motility, inflammation, gut bacteria, and symptoms like nausea and acid reflux. For anyone struggling with chronic digestive issues, acupuncture can be the missing link to get you back to feeling your best.
Eye fatigue is a symptom that can happen from straining the eyes for a long period of time. Usually it happens from keeping the eyes fixated in one position for too long. In today's age this mostly happens from spending hours each day staring at a computer. Symptoms of eye strain include:
Eye Soreness
Eye Tiredness
Dry or watery eyes
Burning
Itching
Light Sensitivity
Blurred Vision
Neck, Shoulder or Back pain
Headaches
Unfortunately, limiting screen use is not an option for many people. Luckily here are some options available the offer relief:
Take breaks- Taking breaks throughout the day can be very helpful in reducing eye strain. Making sure to take frequent break where you look away from being fixated on the screen. Doing eye exercises during this time can also be helpful.
Blue blocking glasses- screens emit blue lights that are very damaging to the eyes. Blue light contributes to eye fatigue and has even been associated with the development of macular degeneration. This can make a huge difference in how your eyes feel at the end of the day.
Acupuncture and facial gua sha- acupuncture can help correct muscle tension in the neck and shoulder that can contribute to eye strain. Acupuncture and gua sha can be used locally in the muscles surrounding the eyes to increase blood flow and relax the muscles, thus reducing eye strain and headaches.
If you are experiencing eye fatigue related symptoms schedule your appointment today.
Written by Ginnette Diaz, L.Ac.
Photo on <a href="https://foter.com/re2/b7237e">Foter.com</a>
If you are my patient, you know I am constantly praising bone broth for its fantastic health benefits. Bone Broth is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin which are very important for joint pain and inflammation. Bone broth is also rich in gelatin which is the cooked version of collagen. Gelatin is has anti-inflammatory effects on the gut, therefore it is very soothing and as a bonus is incredible for your skin. Bone broth also contains important minerals such as magnesium, calcium and phosphorus.
The recipe below is taken from epicurious.com, if you want to get fancy. I make a simpler version and just add 1 celery, enough beef or chicken bones to just sit below the water level, 1 onion, a pinch of salt and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a large pot of water. Chicken bones with a lot of cartilage such as neck, back and feet are best. You can even use the leftover bones from your meals. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. I've heard adding lemongrass is delicious! If you have an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, you can make bone broth in just 4 hours. If not, I would recommend cooking for 8-12 hours. I just throw everything in my instant pot with water and set it to pressure cook on high for 4 hours. Once cooked, allow to cool and strain into a glass container. The broth will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. I recommend having two heated cups a day. It's very warming and nurturing, especially now that the weather is getting cooler. Bone Appetite!
YIELD: Makes about 8 cups of broth, depending on cooking time
ACTIVE TIME: 30 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 9 to 24 hours
INGREDIENTS
4 pounds beef bones, preferably a mix of marrow bones and bones with a little meat on them, such as oxtail, short ribs, or knuckle bones (cut in half by a butcher)
2 medium unpeeled carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 medium leek, end trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 medium onion, quartered
1 garlic head, halved crosswise
2 celery stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons black peppercorns
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
Special equipment:
6-quart (or larger) stockpot or a large slow cooker
PREPARATION
Preheat oven to 450°F. Place beef bones, carrots, leek, onion, and garlic on a roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes. Toss the contents of the pan and continue to roast until deeply browned, about 20 minutes more.
Fill a large (at least 6-quart) stockpot with 12 cups of water (preferably filtered) . Add celery, bay leaves, peppercorns, and vinegar. Scrape the roasted bones and vegetables into the pot along with any juices. Add more water if necessary to cover bones and vegetables.
Cover the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a very low simmer and cook with lid slightly ajar, skimming foam and excess fat occasionally, for at least 8 but up to 24 hours on the stovetop. (Do not leave on stovetop unattended, simply cool and continue simmering the next day.) The longer you simmer it, the better your broth will be. Add more water if necessary to ensure bones and vegetables are fully submerged. Alternately, you can cook the broth in a slow cooker on low for the same amount of time.
Remove the pot from the heat and let cool slightly. Strain broth using a fine-mesh sieve and discard bones and vegetables. Let continue to cool until barely warm, then refrigerate in smaller containers overnight. Remove solidified fat from the top of the chilled broth.
