Women’s health issues can be complex and unique to each person. However, traditional Western medicine solutions are full of invasive procedures that can alter hormones. Other solutions include prescription drugs that can have strong side effects for those taking them. Unfortunately, many women believe these are the only options. 

However, acupuncture can be a tremendous solution in addressing a growing number of women’s health issues. These are the six most common, but there are many more so be sure you talk to your acupuncturist when filling out your health intake so you can get each of your questions answered. 

Menstrual Issues, Menopause, and Endometriosis

Many women suffer from complications during their menstrual cycles. No two women are the same so this time of the month can be debilitating for some, causing extreme pain and discomfort. Acupuncture can be a great help in addressing the symptoms of endometriosis. Acupuncture can also be a solution for the headaches, cycle irregularity and abdominal cramps that come each month.

 Acupuncture is also a great option for those closing out their reproductive years and entering menopause. Acupuncture is an effective treatment for all the symptoms that come during this time including hot flashes, moodiness, insomnia, heart palpitations, just to name a few. 

Infertility and Pregnancy 

Pregnancy is a glorious time but it also can be challenging for many women. Acupuncture treatments can help with the low-back pain many pregnant women suffer from but it can also help with issues of morning sickness and nausea.

For those suffering from infertility, acupuncture can address the irregular menstrual cycles and endometriosis that can cause these issues. Acupuncture directs blood flow to the reproductive organs to help regulate the menstrual cycle.

Insomnia

Research has shown that, for a variety of reasons, more women than men suffer from insomnia. Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture is a great help in improving both sleep quality and duration. But the key is regular acupuncture treatments. Talk to your acupuncturist about your individualized care plan so you can get back to a restful night’s sleep!

Depression and Anxiety

For those looking for a drug-free option, clinical research has also shown that acupuncture is just as effective as antidepressants but without the harsh side effects that can come from some prescription medication. Regular acupuncture treatments can help lower blood pressure, reduce instances of anxiety and panic attacks and help to lower stress.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is an issue for millions of people and most people treat it by popping an over-the-counter pain medication. However, consistent acupuncture treatments can help with various chronic pain conditions whether from arthritis, fibromyalgia, or injury. Acupuncture can help with joint pain and the chronic inflammation that can come with arthritis. Check with your acupuncturist to see what care options are available if you suffer from chronic pain.

Skin Health

One of the key components of acupuncture is how it increases blood flow and this can certainly benefit skin health. Facial acupuncture has been shown to reduce puffiness and diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Most women don’t think of acupuncture for its anti-aging benefits but it has been clinically proven to be a great asset to improving facial skin health, thus improving a woman’s appearance and mood. 

If you are looking for an effective and drug-free option to treat your health issues, acupuncture is a great place to start. Talk to your clinician today to have a thorough health history so you can get a care plan in place that will address your health issues and get you back to health safely and without the side effects that can come from powerful prescription medications. Don’t wait, make an appointment today!

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Some men might not consider acupuncture as a first resort when wanting a health reset, but acupuncture can be a great way to deal with some of the issues that come with getting older. There are certainly more than four, but here are the top four ways acupuncture can improve men’s health. 

1. Reducing Stress

Many lifestyle factors can help in reducing stress levels. What many may not understand is how effective acupuncture can be at helping to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Acupuncturists can stimulate specific points on the body which can release endorphins that produce a calming effect on the nervous system. 

2. Reducing Chronic Pain

A study published in the journal Pain Medicine, showed that acupuncture was found to decrease pain intensity and frequency for people suffering from chronic low back pain. And this reduction in pain was seen after just one treatment session. Most patients experience relief with multiple sessions over several weeks, depending on the severity of the pain condition.

Studies have shown that acupuncture reduces inflammation, increases strength, improves range of motion and flexibility and can stimulate tissue repair. 

3. Improving Sleep Quality

Sleep is an essential component to good health as it allows our bodies to recover and heal. Men can struggle with achieving good sleep patterns due to high testosterone levels. Regular acupuncture treatment addresses the underlying causes of poor sleep and can help men get a better night’s rest for up to six months post-treatment in some cases.

4. Improving Fertility

Fertility issues tend to be a more talked about issue with women but men can also suffer from infertility problems. Research shows that as many as one in six couples have trouble conceiving and up to half of infertility issues are attributed to the male. Acupuncture can play a major role in helping to boost sperm quality, quantity, motility, and vitality. Acupuncture can also address low testosterone levels which can help with semen production, sex drive, and erectile dysfunction. 

Acupuncturists and Chinese medicine practitioners also have an understanding of the importance of the kidneys in sexual function and fertility issues. A kidney imbalance can contribute to a variety of issues and regular acupuncture treatments can be a great benefit to men.

These are not the only four benefits acupuncture can bring to improve men’s health but they are the most frequent reasons men seek out acupuncture. Make sure you share any additional health concerns with your acupuncturist, as they can address a variety of issues including nutrition, allergies, blood pressure, and prostate issues just to name a few. Make your appointment today and get a thorough health intake to address your concerns and get back on the road to health and wellness! 

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The cervix is very vulnerable to several health conditions, such as chronic inflammation, polyps, dysplasia and even cancer. Cervical conditions rarely present symptoms in the early stages, which makes it extremely important for women to get regular pap smears. If an abnormality is detected, there are several ways to address it, depending on the severity. In the early stages of any of the aforementioned conditions, acupuncture can be a positive addition to Western medical treatments. Acupuncture is very good at decreasing inflammation and helping to dissolve polyps and tumors. Acupuncture can also balance hormones, which allows the body to correct any imbalances.

One of the most studied areas of acupuncture is in treating fertility issues. When invitro fertilization by itself does not get the job done, adding acupuncture may be the last piece of the puzzle. Acupuncture does much more than just balance the hormones. When a woman is trying to get pregnant and struggling with it due to fertility issues, the stress levels are extremely high. And high stress levels have been proven to disrupt the body’s ability to conceive. One of the things that acupuncture is really successful at is decreasing stress levels. This can make it easier for the fertility treatments to work. Acupuncture has also been shown to increase blood flow to areas of the body, including the uterus. This can help to make a very hospitable place for a baby to grow.

Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine are also widely used for treating infections and sexually transmitted diseases. In traditional Chinese medicine, most infections have some sort of heat or discharge associated with them. This medicine uses principles, herbs and acupressure points that have specific properties that can drain heat and expel toxins from the body. This can lead to an overall improvement in both uterine and cervical health.

Another area where acupuncture can help with cervical health is at the time of birth. About four percent of babies are presented in the breech position prior to birth. An accessory modality known as moxibustion, has proven time and time again, that it can actually turn the baby to the proper birthing position. Moxibustion involves the burning of an herb, dried mugwort, very near the skin on a specific acupressure point that is located on the outer edge of the pinky toe. By performing moxibustion several times a day, the baby and the body somehow know that there needs to be a repositioning and the baby tends to turn during the night.

When it comes to women’s health, acupuncture is an amazing resource. Contact us to schedule your appointment today.

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#1) There Are Hundreds of Acupuncture Points Throughout The Body

Acupuncture is typically performed on specific points throughout the body, including points both along the meridian and outside the meridian. The number of acupuncture points continues to change on a regular basis, but the latest estimate is around 695 (not including ear treatments).

#2) It’s Growing In Popularity

Acupuncture was once limited to China and surrounding Asian countries. In the 1990s, less than 1% of the U.S. population had tried it. Fast forward to 2010 and over 14 million Americans have reported using acupuncture to treat various diseases and conditions. Analysts expect this number to grow in the following years, as more and more Americans continue to seek alternative forms of healthcare.

#3) A US President Introduced Many Americans To Acupuncture

In 1972, President Richard Nixon visited China with the purpose of creating stronger relations. It marked the first time any U.S. president had personally visited the communist nation. During his trip, Nixon’s delegation observed a patient who was undergoing surgery while simultaneously receiving acupuncture as opposed to anesthesia. News of this medical miracle soon spread throughout the U.S. upon Nixon’s return.

#4) It Can Help Treat Allergies

Nearly 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. suffer from seasonal allergies, but relief may be just a pin-prick away. According to a study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine (journal), acupuncture proved more effective at treating seasonal allergies than traditional antihistamines.

#5) Most Acupuncture Sessions are Small and Short

While the duration of an acupuncture session and the number of needles used varies depending on a number of different factors, typical treatments involve just 5-20 needles which are left in place for 20-30 minutes. The evaluation before the initial treatment begins is longer and more comprehensive, usually lasting up to an hour.

#6) It’s Safe and Virtually Painless

A study involving data from over 34,000 acupuncture treatments found there were no serious side effects from the sessions (source). When performed by a licensed and experienced acupuncturist, the practice is safe and virtually painless.

SEEING IS BELIEVING — IF YOU’RE NEEDLE-PHOBIC, CONTACT ME; YOU CAN COME IN FOR A QUICK DEMONSTRATION!

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