pain

Where does acupuncture hurt the most?

The sensation experienced during acupuncture can vary from person to person and depends on several factors such as individual sensitivity, the specific acupuncture points being used, and the technique employed by the acupuncturist. However, in general, the discomfort or pain associated with acupuncture is usually minimal or mild. Acupuncture needles are typically very thin and flexible, much finer than hypodermic needles used for injections. Most people describe the sensation as a slight prick, tingling, or dull ache, rather than intense pain. Many individuals actually find the experience of acupuncture to be relaxing and soothing. That being said, certain areas of the body may be more sensitive or prone to discomfort during acupuncture. These areas can include: Fingertips and Toes: Acupuncture points located on the fingertips and toes may be more sensitive due to the high concentration of nerve endings in these areas. Face and Head: Some acupuncture points on the […]

Does acupuncture give immediate pain relief?

The immediate pain relief experienced after an acupuncture session can vary depending on several factors, including the individual, the nature of the pain, and the specific condition being treated. In some cases, individuals may experience immediate pain relief following acupuncture, while in other cases, the effects may be more gradual and cumulative over a series of treatments. Immediate pain relief can occur due to various mechanisms: Endorphin Release: Acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances produced by the body. This release of endorphins can lead to immediate pain relief and a sense of well-being. Neural Modulation: Acupuncture can influence the central nervous system and peripheral nerves. The stimulation of acupuncture points can trigger the release of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which can modulate pain perception and provide immediate relief. Relaxation Response: Acupuncture is known to induce a relaxation response in the body, promoting […]

Acupuncture and Lower Back Pain

Acupuncture is commonly used in the treatment of lower back pain and has shown promise in providing relief for some individuals. The exact mechanisms of how acupuncture works for lower back pain are not fully understood, but several theories exist: Pain Gate Theory: According to this theory, acupuncture stimulates the sensory nerves, which send signals to the brain, thereby closing the “gate” for pain signals. The stimulation from acupuncture may help disrupt or modulate the transmission of pain signals, reducing the perception of pain in the lower back. Neurotransmitter Regulation: Acupuncture is believed to influence the release and balance of various neurotransmitters in the body, including endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances. By promoting the release of endorphins, acupuncture may help alleviate lower back pain. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Acupuncture has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation is often associated with lower back pain, and by reducing inflammation, acupuncture may contribute […]

What type of pain does acupotomy help?

Acupotomy / Knife needle / Dao needle / Dao needle therapy / 針刀 / 小針刀 is a therapeutic technique that combines aspects of acupuncture and surgery. It is primarily used for musculoskeletal conditions and may be beneficial for managing various types of pain, including: Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Acupotomy can be effective in treating myofascial pain syndrome, which is characterized by the presence of trigger points in muscles that cause localized or referred pain. Muscular Pain and Tension: Acupotomy may help relieve muscular pain and tension, including muscle spasms, muscle strains, and muscle imbalances. Soft Tissue Injuries: Acupotomy can be beneficial in addressing soft tissue injuries such as tendonitis, ligament sprains, and repetitive strain injuries. Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): Acupotomy may assist in alleviating pain and improving range of motion in individuals with adhesive capsulitis, a condition characterized by shoulder pain and stiffness. Joint Pain: Acupotomy can help manage joint pain […]

How does Acupotomy help with pain?

Acupotomy / Knife needle / Dao needle / Dao needle therapy / 針刀 / 小針刀 is a modern technique that combines acupuncture and surgery to effectively treat pain and other health conditions. It involves the use of specialized acupuncture needles, which are much thicker than traditional needles, to penetrate deep into the skin and underlying tissue. During an Acupotomy procedure, the needles are used to cut through scar tissue, adhesions, and other obstructions that may be causing pain or restricting movement. By doing so, it helps to promote the flow of blood and energy to the affected area, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Acupotomy has been shown to be particularly effective in treating musculoskeletal pain, including back pain, neck pain, and joint pain. It is also used to treat other conditions such as headaches, migraines, and even digestive disorders. Overall, Acupotomy is a safe and effective […]

History of Acupotomy (Knife Needle, or Dao therapy)

Acupotomy / Knife needle / Dao needle / Dao needle therapy / 針刀 / 小針刀 is a relatively new medical technique that emerged in China in the 1970s. It was developed by Dr. Zhu Hanzhang, a Chinese physician who combined traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles with modern surgical techniques to create a new approach to pain management. Dr. Zhu observed that many chronic pain conditions were caused by the accumulation of scar tissue and adhesions in the body, which disrupted the flow of blood and energy. He believed that by using acupuncture needles to cut through these obstructions, he could restore the body’s natural balance and relieve pain. Over time, Dr. Zhu refined his technique and began to use specialized needles that were thicker and stronger than traditional acupuncture needles. These needles, which are known as Acupotomes, have a sharp edge that allows them to cut through tissue more effectively. Acupotomy […]

How does Acupuncture help with pain?

  • How Acupuncture helps with Pain

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body. While the exact mechanisms by which acupuncture works are not fully understood, several theories have been proposed to explain its effects on pain. One theory is that acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. Endorphins can help to reduce pain and promote a sense of well-being and relaxation. Acupuncture may also help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to pain and other health problems. Some research suggests that acupuncture can help to regulate the immune system and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals. Acupuncture may also help to regulate the nervous system, which can play a role in pain perception. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, acupuncture may help to balance the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which can help to […]

What is Cupping?

  • acupuncture in toronto

Cupping is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves placing glass, silicone, or plastic cups on the skin and creating a vacuum or suction by heating the air inside the cup or using a mechanical pump. The suction pulls the skin and underlying tissues up into the cup, creating a tight seal. The theory behind cupping is that it can help promote the flow of Qi and blood in the body, which can help to alleviate pain, promote relaxation, and stimulate the immune system. Cupping is often used to treat conditions such as muscle pain, back pain, headaches, and respiratory issues such as coughs and asthma. Cupping is believed to work by creating a local suction that helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. It is also thought to help stimulate the lymphatic system, which can help to eliminate […]

5 Lessons Learned After Studying Osteopathy, Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture

  • The cavities exist between the organs and communicate between each of them

When I set out on my Chinese Medicine educational journey, I could have never imagined where it would lead me…   After all, I was just a high-schooler whose own Chinese Medicine practitioner decided to take me under her wing.   My studies led me to Beijing, then back to Toronto, and eventually led me to open up my own practice. I was able to meet and learn from the most renowned and respected practitioners in the industry.   It also kickstarted my deep study in Osteopathy.   Unlike many Chinese Medicine practitioners or Acupuncturists, I have specialized knowledge in all three disciplines. Because having the unique ability to pull from multiple bodies of knowledge allows me to fill in the gaps when needed. This means I can serve you better and puts me in the best position to help you optimize your health.   Over the years, I have […]

How to detect pain… Part 2!

A lot of my patients ask me, “How do you know where the pain is?” Picture this: You are standing in front of a large table topped with a cloth. Blindfolded. You’re asked to hold the two corners of the table cloth and create a wave – just like when you were a kid with the parachute. Even though you can’t see the cloth move, you can feel that it’s making a big wave with ease. Then imagine a cup of water is placed on top of the cloth. And you’re asked to do the same thing. But when you try to create the wave, you no longer feel the ease. Instead, there is an obstruction. And the air beneath the wave has to flow around the obstruction to get to the other side. This is exactly how injury works in the human body. Think of the table cloth as […]