Ross Acupuncture Oakland

Oakland Acupuncture

Orthopedic Acupuncture Vs. Traditional: What is the Difference?

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of health conditions. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of acupuncture to treat orthopedic conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, and joint pain. While traditional acupuncture and orthopedic acupuncture share many similarities, there are also some important differences between the two.

An antique illustration of a human

Traditional Acupuncture

Traditional acupuncture is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, which hold that the body has energy channels known as meridians, which can be blocked or unbalanced, leading to pain, illness, or disease. Regular acupuncture involves inserting needles into specific points along these meridians to stimulate the flow of energy and restore balance to the body. These meridians all follow the same pathways of the nerves and blood vessels. So closely in fact, that it proves ancient Chinese physicians were doing very precise dissections of bodies. Every nerve trunk and brance has an acupuncture point associated with it.

During a traditional acupuncture session, the acupuncturist will assess the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and overall health to determine which points to target. The needles used in regular acupuncture are thin and flexible, and they are inserted at various depths, depending on the patient’s condition and the acupuncturist’s expertise. The needles are left in place for 15 to 30 minutes while the patient relaxes. The acupuncturist may also use other techniques, such as moxibustion (burning dried mugwort near the skin) or cupping (using suction cups to create a vacuum on the skin), to enhance the treatment.

Orthopedic Acupuncture

Orthopedic acupuncture involves a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. The acupuncturist will then use a variety of techniques, such as dry needling (inserting needles directly into the affected muscles or trigger points), electroacupuncture (stimulating the needles with electrical currents), and tuina (Chinese massage), to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

The needles used in orthopedic acupuncture are thicker and stronger than those used in regular acupuncture, and they are inserted deeper into the muscles and tissues. The acupuncturist may also use other modalities, such as heat therapy, stretching, and exercise, to enhance the treatment. Moxibustion, cupping, and gua sha are also used in an orthopedic session as indicated.

Wooden Acupuncture Model (acupuncture figure)
Wooden Acupuncture Model (acupuncture figure) by Unknown maker is licensed under CC-BY-SA 4.0

Differences Between the Two Styles

The main differences between traditional and orthopedic acupuncture are their focus and techniques. Regular acupuncture focuses on balancing the body’s energy, blood and body fluids, and treating a wide range of medical conditions. While orthopedic acupuncture focuses on musculoskeletal conditions and uses a combination of acupuncture and modern Western medical knowledge. The needles used in orthopedic acupuncture are thicker and stronger than those used in regular acupuncture, and they are inserted deeper into the muscles and tissues. The techniques used in orthopedic acupuncture are more targeted and specific to the affected area, while regular acupuncture involves a broader approach.

In conclusion, acupuncture is a versatile therapy that can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. Regular acupuncture and orthopedic acupuncture are two types of acupuncture that differ in their focus and techniques. Regular acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine and aims to balance the body’s energy, while orthopedic acupuncture focuses on musculoskeletal conditions and uses a combination of acupuncture and modern Western medical knowledge.

If you are considering using acupuncture for your musculoskeletal pain, it is highly recommended you seek out an orthopedically trained acupuncturist. Jennifer Ross, L.Ac has completed a two year post-graduate program in orthopedic acupuncture, and many continuing education hours on the subject.

Electro-Acupuncture: A Modern Twist on an Ancient Healing Technique

Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been practiced for thousands of years. As science and technology have advanced, so too has the application of this ancient healing art. One of the most notable innovations is electro-acupuncture, which combines traditional acupuncture, orthopedic acupuncture and dry needling with electrical stimulation. In this blog post, we will explore the origins of electro-acupuncture, delve into its mechanism of action, and discuss the research findings that have expanded our understanding of this powerful therapy.

The Birth of Electro-Acupuncture

Usine electro-acupuncture to treat lumbar a lumbar disc bulge.

Electro-acupuncture was first developed in the 1950s in China as a means to enhance the effects of traditional acupuncture. By applying a mild electrical current to acupuncture needles, practitioners aimed to provide stronger stimulation to the targeted acupoints and improve treatment outcomes. Electro-acupuncture quickly gained popularity and is now practiced by acupuncturists worldwide.

Understanding Electro-Acupuncture

Electro-acupuncture involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body, just like traditional acupuncture. Once the needles are in place, a small device is connected to the needles to deliver a gentle electrical current. The intensity, frequency, and duration of the electrical stimulation (e-stim) can be adjusted to suit the needs and comfort of the patient. The combination of acupuncture and electrical stimulation is believed to provide enhanced therapeutic effects compared to traditional acupuncture alone.

Mechanism of Action: How “E-Stim” Works

Research on electro-acupuncture, or just e-stim for short, has uncovered several mechanisms of action that contribute to its therapeutic effects:

  1. Pain relief: Electro-acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins and other pain-relieving chemicals in the body. These natural painkillers bind to the same receptors as opioid medications, providing pain relief without the risk of addiction or other side effects.
  2. Anti-inflammatory effects: Studies have found that it can help modulate the immune system, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines. This can help to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing.
  3. Enhanced blood flow: Electro-acupuncture can increase blood flow to the targeted area, delivering oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues and facilitating the removal of waste products. This can accelerate the healing process and alleviate pain.
  4. Neuromodulation: Electro-acupuncture has been found to stimulate the nervous system, modulating the activity of nerve cells and the release of neurotransmitters. This can help to regulate pain signals and promote overall well-being

Research Findings

Numerous studies have investigated the efficacy of electro-acupuncture for various conditions. Some of the most notable findings include:

  1. Chronic pain: Research has shown that it can provide significant relief for chronic pain conditions, such as low back pain, neck pain, and fibromyalgia. Patients treated with electro-acupuncture often report improvements in pain, function, and quality of life.
  2. Postoperative pain: Several studies have found that it can effectively reduce postoperative pain and the need for pain medications following surgery.
  3. Neuropathy: Electro-acupuncture has been shown to improve nerve function and reduce pain in patients with peripheral neuropathy, a condition often caused by diabetes or chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Electro-acupuncture is a modern adaptation of an ancient healing technique, offering a powerful combination of traditional acupuncture and electrical stimulation. Research has provided insight into the mechanisms of action underlying its therapeutic effects, including pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and neuromodulation. If you are considering electro-acupuncture as a treatment option for pain or other health concerns, you can give us a call at 510-629-9456 to book an appointment. You can also click the link below to schedule online.

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Revitalize Your Posture with Acupuncture: Trigger Points, Motor Points, and Electro-Stimulation

The modern office worker spends countless hours sitting at a desk, often resulting in poor posture and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Acupuncture, an ancient healing practice, has become an increasingly popular solution to help improve posture and relieve pain. In this blog post, we will delve into the role of trigger points, motor points, and electro-stimulation in acupuncture for posture correction and pain relief.

The use of acupuncture for posture is a good way to improve strength and mobility, to decrease pain associated with poor posture

Acupuncture for Posture and Pain Relief: The Basics

Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles at specific points on the body. These points, known as acupoints, are believed to correspond to various physiological functions and pathways, and their stimulation can help balance the flow of energy or Qi (pronounced “chee”). By targeting specific acupoints related to posture and pain, acupuncture can help alleviate discomfort and promote better alignment.

Trigger Points: Releasing Tension to Improve Posture

Trigger points are hyper-irritable spots in the muscle that can cause localized pain or refer pain to other areas of the body. In the context of desk workers, trigger points often develop in the neck, shoulders, and lower back due to poor posture and prolonged sitting. Acupuncture can help release these trigger points by:

  1. Inserting needles directly into the trigger points, which can relax the tight muscle fibers and alleviate pain. This technique is also known as Dry Needling.
  2. Stimulating the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, to provide pain relief.
  3. Improving blood flow to the affected area, facilitating the removal of waste products and promoting tissue healing.

Motor Points: Restoring Muscle Function for Improved Posture

Motor points are the locations where nerves enter muscles, and they play a crucial role in muscle contraction. Imbalances in muscle function due to poor posture can lead to pain and discomfort. Acupuncture can help restore muscle function by:

  1. Stimulating motor points to reset the muscle’s resting tension, which can relieve pain and improve posture.
  2. Encouraging the release of endorphins to reduce pain and promote relaxation.
  3. Increasing blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and muscle recovery.

Electro-Stimulation: Enhancing the Effect of Acupuncture for Posture

Electro-stimulation, or electro-acupuncture, involves the use of a mild electrical current applied to the acupuncture needles. This can enhance the effects of acupuncture by:

  1. Providing stronger stimulation to the targeted acupoints, which can be particularly effective in releasing stubborn trigger points and motor points.
  2. Encouraging the release of endorphins and other pain-relieving chemicals, providing more effective pain relief.
  3. Potentially improving muscle function by stimulating nerve fibers and promoting blood flow to the affected area.

Acupuncture, through the use of trigger points, motor points, and electro-stimulation, can be an effective and holistic solution for those struggling with poor posture and neck, shoulder, and low back pain due to sedentary desk work. By addressing the underlying imbalances in muscle function, acupuncture can help to relieve pain, improve posture, and promote overall well-being. If you’re considering acupuncture to address your posture-related discomfort, contact us at 510-629-9456 to schedule an appointment. You can also click the link below to book online.

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2020 Lunar New Year, Year of the Rat

January 25th is the first day of the Lunar New Year. 2020 is the Year of the Rat

 

 

The 2020 Lunar New Year is a big time for new beginnings.  The whole year is a REALLY big year for new beginnings. First, it’s a new decade, just off the bat. Second, it’s the year of the Rat, which is the beginning of a new 12 year zodiac cycle. Third, it’s the beginning of a new 60 year cycle which includes the 5 yin and yang elements. Some serious math action. So, if you’ve had an inkling to start any new undertaking…physical, mental, career, spiritual..this is your year! Rats are good planners, quick thinkers, resourceful, wise and kind. These are the very traits that will get you the furthest this year.

 


The Natural Elements

If we take into account the elemental relationship of the year (the “qi” of the year), we have a Yang Metal year with a Yang Water animal. If you look at the Five Element chart above, you see that Metal generates Water. Add on that they are both Yang versions this year…active, bright, aggressive…we are going to have a big year for water. If the storm that happened mid- January here in the Bay Area is any indication, we are on track. It’s also a good time to put yourself into salt water, so keep that in mind. Salt water pools, epsom salt baths, ocean swims. 

 

 

Get Acupuncture!

The Yang Metal that is in the 202o Lunar New Year also makes it a good time for acupuncture! Getting treatment from those little needles made of metal will be a great way to harmonize yourself with the qi of the year. If something comes up, and you are thinking: “I wonder if acupuncture is good for this”, chances are the answer is: “Acupuncture is good for that”. You can book yourself online here, or give us a call at 510-629-9456. Happy Lunar New Year!

Staying Healthy with the Coronavirus and Flu Season

Yes, one more post about COVID-19.

I know we are all being inundated with news and information about this daily, but I want to let you know you’ve got support during this time.

If you do find yourself feeling under the weather with an active fever over 100.4, cough or other respiratory symptoms, we are asking that you reschedule your appointment for an herbal consultation over the phone. At that point I can make you a formula, and either somebody can pick it up for you, I can ship it, or I can deliver it if you live close-by.

In addition, we are having everybody wash their hands at the office, before they enter the clinic space. We are also actively disinfecting all door handles and surfaces multiple times during the day.

Virus Prevention

As far as prevention goes, please take all the precautions we all are very familiar with at this point.

  • Cough and sneeze into your elbow,
  • don’t touch your face,
  • and everybody’s favorite: wash your hands, often, for 20 seconds. Get between your fingers and under your nails. Invest in a $5 nail brush.

For those of you with spiritual leanings, the Buddhists at the SF Zen Center recommend a lovely practice of reciting a sutra while washing your hands, instead of singing Happy Birthday. Prayer or mantra works too…basically, use these moments to up your vibration!

 Immunity Enhancement

Acupuncture is definitely a good practice for improving/maintaining a healthy immune system. Other than the fact that it’s been used for this purpose for millenia, there is also modern research showing acupuncture increases T-cells and killer cells (types of white blood cells), cytokines,  red blood cells, etc., etc., etc. All important parts of our innate immunity. Here is an overview of a few of the studies.

Food and nutrition are very important. Make sure you eat plenty of cooked vegetables, whole grains and legumes, small amounts of high quality (organic, grass fed, pastured) meats, a little bit of fruit. Sugar is an immunity drainer, as is alcohol and smoking. Mushrooms, garlic, ginger, dark leafy greens, pumpkin seeds, and bone broth from happy, healthy animal sources are all great additions to your diet.

Good quality sleep and moderate exercise are also very important. But be mindful of over-exercising. Too much sweating is a drain to your system, you lose vital heat and fluids that your body needs to create protection from external pathogens.

Stay Calm

And last but not least, do not panic. Fear and stress are also major factors in decreased immunity. Do your best to stay calm, while practicing due diligence in keeping yourself and your loved ones healthy.