Clinic Blog

What is dry needling vs acupuncture?

Dry needling and acupuncture are both techniques that involve the insertion of thin needles into the body, but they have distinct differences in terms of their origins, underlying theories, and applications: Origins and Cultural Background: Acupuncture: Acupuncture originated in ancient China over 2,000 years ago and is an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is deeply rooted in Chinese philosophy, with a focus on balancing the flow of Qi (vital energy) in the body. Dry Needling: Dry needling is a more recent technique that evolved from Western medicine practices. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century and gained prominence in the field of physical therapy. Theoretical Framework: Acupuncture: Acupuncture is based on TCM principles, which emphasize the flow of Qi along meridians (energy pathways) in the body. The goal of acupuncture is to restore the balance and harmony of Qi to promote health and […]

Acupuncture Near Me: Your Path to Wellness

Are you searching for a natural, holistic approach to health and wellness? Look no further than acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that has been practiced for thousands of years. Acupuncture offers a gentle yet effective way to treat a wide range of health issues and promote overall well-being. What is Acupuncture? Acupuncture is based on the principles of TCM, which views the body as a complex system of meridians, or energy pathways, through which qi (vital energy) flows. According to TCM theory, disruptions or imbalances in the flow of qi can lead to pain, illness, and other health problems. Acupuncture aims to restore balance and promote healing by stimulating specific points along these meridians. Benefits of Acupuncture: Pain Relief: Acupuncture is well-known for its ability to alleviate pain, whether it’s due to chronic conditions like arthritis or acute injuries. Stress Reduction: Acupuncture can help reduce stress […]

Tenants of Acupuncture

Acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is based on a set of fundamental principles and tenets. These principles guide the theory and practice of acupuncture. Here are the key tenets of acupuncture: Qi (Chi): Qi is the vital energy that flows through the body along specific pathways called meridians. It is believed that an unobstructed and balanced flow of qi is essential for health, and disruptions or imbalances in qi can lead to various ailments. Acupuncture aims to regulate the flow of qi and restore its balance in the body. Yin and Yang: Yin and Yang are complementary and interconnected forces in nature. Yin represents the cooler, nourishing, and more passive aspects, while Yang represents the warmer, active, and dynamic aspects. In the body, yin and yang need to be in balance for optimal health. Acupuncture seeks to restore balance between yin and yang energies to promote […]

Acupotomy and Pain

Acupotomy, also known as acupoint knife therapy or needle knife therapy, is a specialized technique used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat pain and various musculoskeletal conditions. It combines principles from acupuncture and surgical methods, involving the insertion of a thin, specialized needle or knife into specific acupoints, muscles, or soft tissues. Here’s how acupotomy is believed to help with pain in TCM: Dispersing stagnation: Acupotomy aims to address areas of stagnation or blockage in the body’s energy flow (qi) and blood circulation. By inserting the needle or knife into the affected acupoints or tissues, it is thought to help disperse stagnant qi and blood, relieving pain and promoting healing. Stimulating acupuncture points: Acupotomy targets specific acupuncture points associated with pain relief and healing. The insertion of the needle or knife at these points is believed to stimulate the flow of qi and activate the body’s self-healing mechanisms. It […]

Exploring the Parallelism Between Osteopathy and Chinese Medicine: The Rule of the Artery and Qi/Blood

Osteopathy and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may seem worlds apart in terms of cultural origin and theoretical frameworks, yet beneath the surface, they share fundamental principles that underscore their holistic approach to healing. One such principle is the concept of “the rule of the artery” in osteopathy, which bears striking resemblance to the notion of Qi (or “life force energy”) and Blood in Chinese medicine. Understanding Osteopathy’s Rule of the Artery Osteopathy, founded by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the late 19th century, is a form of alternative medicine that emphasizes the interrelationship between the body’s structure and its function. At the heart of osteopathic philosophy lies the principle known as “the rule of the artery,” which asserts that proper blood flow is essential for optimal health and wellbeing. According to this principle, when blood circulation is obstructed or compromised, it can lead to various health problems and musculoskeletal imbalances. […]

How does acupuncture heal pain?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points. While the exact mechanisms are still being studied, there are several proposed theories on how acupuncture may help relieve pain: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Theory: According to TCM theory, acupuncture aims to balance the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”), which is believed to be the vital energy that circulates throughout the body. Pain and illness are thought to arise from imbalances or blockages in the flow of Qi. By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points, acupuncture is believed to stimulate and restore the proper flow of Qi, thereby alleviating pain. Endorphin Release: Acupuncture may stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances produced by the body. Endorphins can help reduce pain perception and promote a sense of well-being and relaxation. Neural Modulation: Acupuncture may […]

What is cupping therapy?

In Chinese medicine, cupping is a therapy that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. It is believed to help improve blood circulation, alleviate pain, and promote healing. The technique has been used for thousands of years and is still widely practiced today. Here’s how cupping works according to Chinese medicine: Creating suction: The cups used in cupping therapy are typically made of glass, bamboo, or plastic. They are heated with a flame or a pump is used to remove the air inside the cup, creating a partial vacuum. The cup is then quickly placed on the skin, and as the air inside the cup cools down, it creates suction, causing the skin to rise and redden. Promoting blood flow: The suction created by the cups helps to stimulate blood flow in the area. This is thought to remove stagnation and congestion in the body, improving the circulation […]

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is an ancient healing technique rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points or acupoints. The therapeutic effects of acupuncture are based on several key principles: Balancing Qi (Chi): Central to TCM is the concept of “Qi” or “Chi,” which represents the vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body along channels known as meridians. It is believed that illness and pain result from an imbalance or blockage of Qi. Acupuncture aims to restore the balance and free the flow of Qi along these meridians. Stimulating Acupuncture Points: Acupuncture points are located along the meridians and correspond to specific organs, functions, or conditions within the body. By inserting needles into these points, acupuncturists aim to stimulate or sedate the flow of Qi, depending on the individual’s condition. This stimulation is thought […]

Massage Therapy for Pain Relief

Yes, massage therapy can help with pain by addressing the underlying muscular and soft tissue imbalances that may be contributing to the pain. Massage therapists use a range of hands-on techniques to manipulate and mobilize the muscles and soft tissues of the body, helping to reduce pain and improve overall function. One way that massage therapy can help with pain is by reducing muscle tension. Tight muscles can cause pain and discomfort, and massage therapists use techniques such as kneading, compression, and stretching to help release muscle tension and improve muscle function. Another way that massage therapy can help with pain is by improving circulation. Massage can help to increase blood flow and oxygen to the muscles, which can help to reduce pain and promote healing. Massage therapy can also help with pain by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Stress can cause muscle tension and pain, and massage therapy can […]

How does Osteopathy help with pain?

Osteopathy can help with pain by addressing the underlying musculoskeletal imbalances that may be contributing to the pain. Osteopaths use a range of hands-on techniques to manipulate and mobilize the joints, muscles, and soft tissues of the body to help reduce pain and improve overall function. One way that osteopathy can help with pain is by improving joint mobility. Joint restrictions can cause pain and discomfort, and osteopaths use techniques such as mobilization and manipulation to help restore joint mobility and reduce pain. Another way that osteopathy can help with pain is by reducing muscle tension. Tight muscles can cause pain and stiffness, and osteopaths use massage and other techniques to help release muscle tension and improve muscle function. Osteopathy can also help with pain by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Osteopaths use techniques such as lymphatic drainage and myofascial release to help improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which can […]