Acupuncture can be a Springboard for a Healthier You!

by urban-acupuncture | Aug 8, 2024 | Acupuncture

According to Phillipa Lally, a psychological researcher, it takes approximately 66 days to create a new behavior pattern. The amount of time it takes each individual to change or create a new behavior pattern can vary from 18-254 days!  Acupuncture can provide the small step you need to start feeling better. Acupuncture has myriad general health benefits including: improving blood flow, calming & resetting the brain, balancing Qi & clearing blockages, stimulating the central nervous system, releasing hormones & chemicals into the body, reducing pain & inflammation, and improving mood.

Acupuncture is gentler on the body than surgery or medications and is also able to promote healing post-surgery. Research suggests that regular acupuncture treatments can improve outcomes for digestive, emotional, mental health, ear-eye-throat, fertility, musculoskeletal, neurological, respiratory, and addiction related conditions. While one acupuncture treatment may not counteract the long term impact of chronic issues, it has the capacity to stimulate positive change. Over time these effects will compound, aiding your body in achieving equilibrium.

Change starts with one small step. As Aristotle says, “we are what we repeatedly do,” so we’d love to be part of your routine. Whatever your health goals, we will offer a compassionate ear & work with you to achieve them.

Reference Articles:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2009/aug/how-long-does-it-take-form-habit
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-long-does-it-really-take-to-form-a-habit/

Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information

For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488   or  click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.

Acupuncture Can Reduce the Frequency of Migraines

by urban-acupuncture | Aug 1, 2024 | Acupuncture

Anyone who has experienced migraines understands that they are debilitating.

The intense, throbbing pain can also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. During the duration of a migraine, many individuals cannot work or complete daily activities or tasks. Therefore, people suffering from migraines will pursue a variety of treatment options until they find relief. It is estimated that up to 40% of the global population experiences some form of headache disorder that impairs their ability to function effectively on a daily basis, with 10-15% reporting migraines. Up to 21.5% of individuals suffering from migraines have also been diagnosed with PTSD.

Migraines are a unique condition that rarely have a structural or organic basis in the body. You simply cannot see it. Instead, migraines result from a sudden disruption in the body’s homeostatic, sensory systems which triggers a chain reaction causing the blood vessels of the brain to suddenly dilate. Whether it be stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, food, hormones, or weather, the key is prevention. Acupuncture has a strong counter-irritant effect on the body which tends to stabilize its internal environment.

The National Institute of Health states that, “a sound body of evidence exists supporting the use of acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis.” Furthermore, a 2016 Cochrane review of 22 acupuncture trials determined that acupuncture provided positive benefits and outperformed all other treatments including sham* acupuncture, no treatment, and standard migraine pharmacological treatments. Additionally, acupuncture has been shown to be more effective than standard therapy for tension headaches.

As well as reducing the frequency of migraines by 50% or more, regular acupuncture treatments relax muscles, improve blood circulation, and release pain-relieving chemicals and endorphins into the system. These positive results can persist for more than 6 months at a time and there are little to no side effects unlike standard medications utilized for migraine treatment. For best results, the NIH and American Migraine Foundation recommend keeping a log or journal to document migraine triggers. Once these triggers have been identified, a plan can be made to manage and possibly modify behaviors or lifestyle choices that contribute to migraine triggers.

*Sham acupuncture is the term used to differentiate acupuncture that uses points specific to migraines (actual acupuncture) in clinical studies from points that are not actually migraine treatment points (sham acupuncture). The term “sham” implies that the acupuncture treatment is inactive or a placebo. “Sham” acupuncture treatments often have a positive effect in clinical studies because all acupuncture has a positive impact on the human body even when the points being utilized are not specific to the health condition being treated. 

Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information

For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488   or  click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.

The Thyroid: Its function, Imbalances & How Acupuncture Can Help Rebalance the Body

by urban-acupuncture | Aug 1, 2024 | Acupuncture

The thyroid plays a vital role in our health.

It produces hormones that regulate metabolic rate and our growth and development. Additionally it plays a critical role in controlling our heart rate, muscular and digestive function, brain development, and skin & bone maintenance. As with all bodily functions, balance is key to maintaining homeostasis in the system. When the thyroid is hyper or hypoactive, it can have a negative, cascading effect on the entire system.

When treating conditions of the thyroid, acupuncturists focus on the channel/pathway of which the thyroid is part. Acupuncture channels/pathways are named after the primary internal organs that they innervate. The body plane is woven 3-dimensionally by the fascia that runs longitudinally from head -to-toe or toe-to-head. As such, it encompasses all the organs, bodily tissues, nerves, and blood threaded into its matrix. Therefore, any disorder of the thyroid is related to and treated via the Stomach and Spleen acupuncture channels.

The thyroid may not seem related to the Stomach or spleen at first, but we will break it down, starting with iodine. The thyroid gland requires a lot of iodine to make hormones. Iodine is extremely important for brain development and brain health. It also prevents toxin buildup in cells and can treat both UTIs and bladder infections. Iodine kills all single-celled organisms including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Interestingly, iodine is a required ingredient for your body to make strong stomach acid with a pH of less than 2. Proper stomach acid pH is necessary for effective digestion.

Sub-clinical hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid with a normal range TSH*) is very prevalent in the United States. It has been estimated that 80% of North Americans might fit the criteria for this condition and exhibit signs and symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid is like a sponge for toxins and tries to protect the body from chemicals, radiation, and background electrical frequencies that permeate our current environment including our food and water sources. Excess fluoride, glyphosates (insecticides), and GMOs in our food, too little iodine, and soy sensitivity are often part of the problem. Eating too much of the “unhealthy whites” (flour, rice, sugar, and potatoes) will often lead to chronic hypothyroid and metabolic syndrome characterized by abdominal obesity, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

Another common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s Disease which affects approximately 14 million people in the US. It is linked to weak stomach acid and/or iodine deficiency as well. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in countries with widely available iodized salt and other iodine-enriched foods. Iodine deficiency is the most common cause in other countries.”  While genetics play a role, it can also be triggered by environmental factors including: carbohydrates, GMOs containing bacterial or viral DNA, and pesticides. When weak stomach acid fails to break down proteins into amino acids, the proteins are mistakenly absorbed in the small intestine, enter the blood steam, and the immune system attacks. As this process gets repeated over and over, chronic inflammation and leaky gut syndrome results in a full-blown autoimmune disease that can be difficult to turn around.

There are ways to reverse these types of conditions with a restricted diet including non-processed foods, supplements, and limited exposure to chemicals. Electroacupuncture is also an excellent therapy to charge up the acupuncture channels with free electrons so that the thyroid gland, spleen, stomach, and small intestine may heal together and return the body to a more balanced homeostatic state.

*Thyroid Stimulating Hormone. TSH  is produced and released into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland.

References:
Steve & Jeff 
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17665-hashimotos-disease
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hashimotos-disease#
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20350284
https://naturemed.org/do-you-have-hypothyroid-or-hashimotos/

Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information

For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488   or  click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.

Alleviating Discomfort: The Role of Acupuncture in Managing Nausea and Vomiting

by urban-acupuncture | Jun 5, 2024 | Acupuncture

Nausea and Vomiting Treatment for After Chemo, During Pregnancy, Preventing Motion Sickness, and More

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms that can arise from various causes, including digestive disorders, motion sickness, pregnancy, chemotherapy, and postoperative recovery. While medications are often used to alleviate these symptoms, acupuncture has emerged as a promising alternative therapy for managing nausea and vomiting effectively. In this article, we explore the role of acupuncture in addressing digestive-related nausea and vomiting, its potential mechanisms of action, and its benefits for individuals seeking relief from these distressing symptoms.

Understanding Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation often accompanied by the urge to vomit, while vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. These symptoms can arise from a wide range of conditions and triggers, including:

1. Digestive Disorders: Conditions such as gastroenteritis, gastritis, acid reflux, and inflammatory bowel disease can irritate the stomach lining and trigger nausea and vomiting.
2. Motion Sickness: Disruption to the body’s equilibrium, such as during travel or sea voyages, can lead to motion sickness, characterized by nausea and vomiting.
3. Pregnancy: Nausea and vomiting, commonly known as morning sickness, are prevalent during the early stages of pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased sensitivity to certain odors and foods.
4. Chemotherapy: Cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy and radiation therapy, often cause nausea and vomiting as side effects.
5. Postoperative Recovery: Nausea and vomiting can occur after surgery as a result of anesthesia, pain medications, or changes in gastrointestinal function.

How Acupuncture Addresses Nausea and Vomiting

Acupuncture, an integral component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerve endings, muscles, and connective tissue. From a TCM perspective, nausea and vomiting are believed to arise from imbalances in the body’s energy, or qi, and disruptions in the flow of qi along meridians or energy channels.

Acupuncture for nausea and vomiting targets specific acupuncture points associated with digestion, nausea, and relaxation. By stimulating these points, practitioners aim to:

1. Regulate Gastrointestinal Function: Acupuncture can help regulate gastrointestinal motility, reduce gastric acidity, and alleviate inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to decreased nausea and vomiting.
2. Modulate Neurotransmitters: Acupuncture may influence the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in regulating nausea and vomiting pathways in the brain.
3. Promote Relaxation: Acupuncture promotes relaxation and reduces stress, which can help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with anxiety, tension, or emotional distress.
4. Enhance Endorphin Release: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving and mood-enhancing chemicals, which can provide relief from nausea and vomiting and improve overall well-being.

Research on Acupuncture for Nausea and Vomiting

Numerous studies have investigated the efficacy of acupuncture in managing nausea and vomiting across various conditions, with compelling results:

1. Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV): Research published in the journal Supportive Care in Cancer has shown that acupuncture can effectively reduce the severity and frequency of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, improving patients’ quality of life during cancer treatment.
2. Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV): A meta-analysis published in the journal Acupuncture in Medicine found that acupuncture was more effective than antiemetic medications in preventing and treating postoperative nausea and vomiting, with fewer side effects.
3. Pregnancy-Related Nausea and Vomiting: Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of acupuncture in relieving nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, offering a safe and natural alternative to conventional medications.
4. Motion Sickness: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of motion sickness symptoms, making it a valuable option for individuals prone to travel-related nausea and vomiting.

Considerations and Additional Strategies

While acupuncture can be a beneficial treatment for nausea and vomiting, it is essential to approach it as part of a comprehensive care plan that may include dietary modifications, hydration, stress management, and other supportive therapies. Here are some additional considerations:

1. Consultation with a Qualified Practitioner: Seek guidance from a qualified acupuncturist who specializes in treating nausea and vomiting. They can assess your individual needs and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your condition and preferences.
2. Integration with Conventional Care: Acupuncture can complement conventional treatments for nausea and vomiting, such as antiemetic medications, dietary adjustments, and hydration strategies. Integrating multiple approaches can enhance overall effectiveness and symptom relief.
3. Frequency and Duration of Treatment: The frequency and duration of acupuncture treatments may vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of nausea and vomiting. Discuss your treatment plan with your acupuncturist to determine the optimal schedule for your needs.
4. Safety and Comfort: Acupuncture is generally safe and well-tolerated when performed by a trained practitioner using sterile needles. However, if you have any concerns or medical conditions, discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting acupuncture treatment.

Acupuncture offers a safe, effective, and natural approach to managing nausea and vomiting associated with various conditions, including digestive disorders, pregnancy, chemotherapy, and postoperative recovery. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to digestion, relaxation, and symptom relief, acupuncture can provide relief from nausea and vomiting and improve overall well-being. If you’re experiencing nausea and vomiting, consider consulting with a qualified acupuncturist to explore how acupuncture can support your journey to greater comfort, wellness, and symptom relief.

Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information

For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488   or  click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.

Electroacupuncture Treatment for Stress Reduction and Cortisol Regulation

by urban-acupuncture | Jun 1, 2024 | Acupuncture

Harnessing Healing Energy for Stress

In the fast-paced modern world, stress has become a prevalent concern affecting millions of individuals worldwide. While some level of stress is inevitable, chronic stress can take a toll on both mental and physical well-being, leading to a host of health issues. Traditional acupuncture has long been recognized for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress, but recent innovations in the field have led to the emergence of electroacupuncture as a promising tool for stress management. Let’s explore the principles behind electroacupuncture and how it can help reduce stress by regulating cortisol levels in the body.

Understanding Electroacupuncture

Electroacupuncture is a therapeutic technique that combines traditional acupuncture with modern technology. Like traditional acupuncture, electroacupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific acupuncture points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi, or vital energy, along meridians. However, in electroacupuncture, a small electrical current is applied to the acupuncture needles to enhance the therapeutic effects of the treatment.

Regulating Cortisol Levels

Cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” plays a crucial role in the body’s response to stress. When faced with a stressful situation, the adrenal glands release cortisol into the bloodstream, triggering the body’s fight-or-flight response. While cortisol serves an essential function in helping the body cope with stress, chronically elevated cortisol levels can have detrimental effects on health, including anxiety, depression, weight gain, and immune system suppression.

Studies have shown that acupuncture, including electroacupuncture, may help regulate cortisol levels by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is responsible for regulating the body’s stress response. Electroacupuncture has been found to influence the release of various neurotransmitters and hormones, including cortisol, serotonin, and endorphins, which play a role in stress regulation and mood stabilization.

Benefits of Electroacupuncture for Stress Reduction

1. Promotes Relaxation: Electroacupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which induce a sense of relaxation and well-being. By calming the nervous system and promoting a state of relaxation, electroacupuncture can help individuals manage stress more effectively.
2. Reduces Anxiety and Depression: Research suggests that electroacupuncture may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression by modulating neurotransmitter levels in the brain. By restoring balance to the brain’s chemistry, electroacupuncture can improve mood and mental health.
3. Improves Sleep Quality: Chronic stress can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to insomnia. Electroacupuncture has been shown to promote better sleep by reducing stress and anxiety levels, allowing individuals to experience more restful and rejuvenating sleep.
4. Enhances Resilience to Stress: Regular sessions of electroacupuncture can strengthen the body’s resilience to stress by rebalancing the HPA axis and promoting adaptive responses to stressors. By enhancing stress resilience, electroacupuncture can help individuals cope more effectively with the challenges of daily life.

Electroacupuncture offers a holistic approach to stress management by addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of stress. By regulating cortisol levels and promoting relaxation, electroacupuncture can help individuals achieve a greater sense of balance, well-being, and resilience in the face of stress. As more research continues to explore the therapeutic benefits of electroacupuncture, it has the potential to emerge as a valuable tool in the integrative approach to stress reduction and overall health promotion.

Contact Urban Acupuncture Center in Columbus, OH For More Information

For more information about how acupuncture, massage therapy and other alternative healing treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Columbus, Ohio (Clintonville) (614) 725-2488   or  click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.