Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the key component of today’s Traditional Chinese Medicine. It involves the insertion of extremely thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body. Most patients come to Acupuncture to treat pain, however any medical problem can be addressed using Acupuncture.
How does Acupuncture help healing?
Research shows that Acupuncture activates the para-sympathetic nervous system via the vagus nerve. This in turn affects all internal organs including liver, heart, kidneys, lungs and the digestive system. Through this state alpha brain waves are activated which affect the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, theta coherence represents a neural index of readiness to perceive and integrate sensory inputs. Some people call this a semi-meditative state or “adult naptime”.
Four types of brain waves can be detected by EEG. They are Delta (±0 to 4 Hz), theta (4‐8 Hz), alpha (8‐13 Hz), and beta (13‐20 Hz). Delta waves are more frequent during sleep. Alpha and theta brain waves are produces when the brain is in a relaxed or meditative state. And research has shows that acupuncture facilitates the modulation of brain waves from high activity gamma and beta wave states to more relaxed alpha and theta states.
How does Acupuncture affect the immune system?
Acupuncture further stimulates multiple neuro-immune pathways, including the cholinergic anti-inflammatory, vagus-adrenal medulla-dopamine, and sympathetic pathways, as well as the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, ultimately acting immune cells via the release of crucial neurotransmitters and hormones! This mechanism affects the crucial M1/M2 ratio to keep the body in homeostasis.
How does Acupuncture treat Pain?
When it comes to the treatment of pain, acupuncture simply works on the nervous system. After an injury, the pain signals reach from the peripheral nervous system to the central nervous system. Specific pain areas are established in the brain. These ‘pain centers’ are then involved in CHRONIC PAIN. According to the gate theory, a neurogenic inflammatory "highway" is established between the brain and the site of injury. It is the brains' job to "protect" the area of concern and start a healing process. However this process is often NON-PRODUCTIVE due to failure of the bodies repair process.
THE ACUPUNCTURE BREAKS THIS VICIOUS CYCLE and down-regulates the inflammatory process.
Needles are NOT locally inserted into the pain areas but in corresponding "distal" locations. When this process is repeated several times in course of weeks or month, the ‘pain center’ in the brain reverses and disappears and so does the chronic pain.
This study from individual patient data meta-analyses of nearly 18,000 randomized patients on high quality trials provide the most robust evidence to date that acupuncture is a reasonable referral option for patients with chronic pain.
Losses in PFC grey matter are often reversible after successful treatment of chronic pain.
A recent study demonstrated that distal muscle needling reduces proximal pain by means of the diffuse noxious inhibitory control.
Diffuse Noxious Inhibitory Control (DNIC) is a physiological process in which pain from one part of the body inhibits pain in another part. This phenomenon is thought to be a protective mechanism where the brain prioritizes more severe pain, leading to the suppression of less critical pain signals. DNIC involves complex interactions within the central nervous system and is part of the body's natural pain modulation system. It is mediated by a network of neurons that can suppress pain signals at the spinal cord level when intense pain is experienced elsewhere in the body. Understanding DNIC is important in pain management and research, as it has implications for the treatment of chronic pain conditions.
Research suggests that acupuncture can activate adrenergic mechanisms, which are part of the descending pain modulation pathway. Specifically, acupuncture has been found to reduce allodynia (a type of pain) through the activation of noradrenaline-containing neurons in the brainstem. These neurons project into the spinal cord and are involved in pain modulation. Alpha2- and beta-adrenoceptors are the most frequently reported receptors involved in this process. The activation of the adrenergic system by acupuncture is thought to interact with the opioid system in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, contributing to its analgesic effects.
Other resources:
Acupuncture can help to reset the nervous system and restore balance by stimulating specific points on the body that are connected to the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and restorative processes1. Numerous new research investigations have shown that acupuncture is effective for the treatment of autonomic nervous system related disorders including epilepsy, anxiety, PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), infertility and cardiovascular disorders2. Acupressure is also a reliable method for calming the nervous system and provides immediate anxiety relief for adults3.
Neuropathic pain
Migranes
Migraine is a complex disorder; each episode begins with prodromes and aura (transient focal neurological symptoms). The origin of recurrent headache accompanied by visual or sensory symptoms is speculated to involve the hypothalamus, brain stem, and cortex. Current theories suggest that migraine is a neurovascular disorder involving cortical spreading depression, neurogenic inflammation, and vasodilation. A randomized controlled trial investigated the efficacy and tolerability of acupuncture in comparison with topiramate treatment in chronic migraine prophylaxis. The effectiveness of acupuncture was similar to or greater than that of prophylactic pharmacotherapy, with fewer side effects in migraine.
Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system and Hormonal regulation
Parasympathetic tone refers to the baseline level of activity in the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), which is part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for regulating the body's unconscious actions. The PNS is often referred to as the "rest and digest" system because it conserves energy and helps maintain homeostasis during restful states.
Parasympathetic tone is important for several reasons:
Regulation of bodily functions: It helps regulate functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate, ensuring that they operate at a calm and relaxed pace.
Balance with sympathetic tone: Parasympathetic tone provides a balance to sympathetic tone, which is the activation level of the sympathetic nervous system (the "fight or flight" system). A healthy balance between these two systems is essential for overall well-being and the ability to respond appropriately to stress.
Recovery and relaxation: High parasympathetic tone is associated with better relaxation, recovery, and stress resilience. It promotes restorative processes in the body, such as digestion and tissue repair.
Health indicators: Parasympathetic tone can be an indicator of overall health and fitness. For example, heart rate variability (HRV), a measure of the variation in time between heartbeats, is often used as an indirect marker of parasympathetic tone. Higher HRV is associated with greater parasympathetic activity and is considered a sign of good cardiovascular health and stress resilience.
Overall, parasympathetic tone plays a crucial role in maintaining balance in the body's autonomic functions and promoting a state of relaxation and recover.
Hormonal Regulation
Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine technique by the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, is believed to influence hormonal balance and various biochemical processes. Research suggests that acupuncture can affect the release of several hormones and neurotransmitters, leading to various physiological and therapeutic effects. Here are some key hormonal changes observed during acupuncture:
Endorphins and Enkephalins:
Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins and enkephalins, which are natural pain-relieving compounds in the body. These substances can help reduce pain and induce a sense of well-being.
Serotonin:
Levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, appetite, and sleep, may increase during acupuncture sessions. This can contribute to mood stabilization and improved emotional health.
Cortisol:
Some studies have shown that acupuncture can REDUCE cortisol levels, a stress hormone. Lower cortisol levels are associated with reduced stress and anxiety.
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH):
Acupuncture may influence the release of ACTH, which in turn stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. The overall effect on ACTH and cortisol levels can vary depending on the individual and the specific acupuncture treatment used.
Oxytocin:
Acupuncture can enhance the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone." Oxytocin is associated with social bonding, relaxation, and stress reduction.
Dopamine:
Dopamine levels may also be affected by acupuncture. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure, motivation, and reward. Changes in dopamine levels can influence mood and behavior.
GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid):
Acupuncture might increase the levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that has calming effects on the nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Sex Hormones (Estrogen and Testosterone):
There is some evidence to suggest that acupuncture can influence the levels of sex hormones, potentially helping to regulate menstrual cycles and address issues related to fertility and menopause.
Insulin:
Acupuncture may affect insulin levels and glucose metabolism, which can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or metabolic disorders.
The exact mechanisms by which acupuncture influences hormonal releases are still being studied, and the effects can vary depending on factors such as the specific acupuncture points used, the duration of treatment, and individual patient differences. However, the overall consensus is that acupuncture can modulate the endocrine system and contribute to various therapeutic outcomes.
What do studies show?
Trigeminal pain: Qu 2020: Our research shows that electro-acupuncture at GB8 (Shuaigu), located in the periorbital region receptive field of the trigeminal nerve, may rapidly reduce the C-fiber evoked WDR neuronal discharges of the TCC within 60 s.
Electrical stimulated Acupuncture:
How does Acupuncture treat Internal Medicine?
No Medical condition exists on its own. Only treating the body as whole will truly address the complete state of health. Everything is connected as a whole body!
Wu et.al. 2017; Journal of Arthritis research
Traditional Chinese medicine explains Acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force — known as Qi— believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe that your vital-energy flow will re-balance.
In contrast, many Western practitioners view the acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. This stimulation appears to boost the activity of your body's natural process to inhibit pain, regulated the immune system and increase oxygen (qi) and blood flow.
At Natureworks Acupuncture, we practice the "Balance Method" which is based on I-Ching Acupuncture theory. I-Ching theory explains how life unfolds through origin, growth and completion. Humans are part an inseparable trinity of heaven, human and earth forming the universe. Yin and Yang is the binary system and its this theory forms the Early Heaven Ba Gua, the structure of the 8 trigrams.which form a perfect numerological system of opposites. This system ultimately led to the well known 5 phases, 5 elements or Wu Xing and directly applies to the human body as part of the 太極 =" Universal Supreme Ultimate" or Tai Ji (often spelled as ‘tai chi’).
At Natureworks Acupuncture we strongly believe that these systems of opposites ultimately reflect the balances of Yin and Yang. The state of disease is Qi stagnation caused by imbalances of Yin and Yang. Targeting specific Yin and Yang Meridians in opposites of (eg. foot - hand, ankle -wrist, knee - elbow) and distal relationships is the ultimate and original form of Acupuncture as described in the Nei Jing Su Wen.
In simple terms by treating the balancing points on the corresponding Meridians the normal Qi flow is restored. Qi and Blood can get to the area or organ of concern and healing is initiated.
Below you will find some links to trusted websites if you are interested in a deeper understanding of Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture. Please start by reading through these excellent pages.
Here you will find an Introduction to Acupuncture
There are many Different Styles of Acupuncture
I-Ching Acupuncture
For more in-depth research you can look at the Journal of Chinese Medicine, the Journal of Traditional Chines Medicine or do your own research at the National Center for Biotechnology information.
What is QI 氣 ?
One of the most FAQ is the origin of Qi. It is actually not that mysterious. Qi is believed to be a vital force forming part of any living entity. Qi translates as "air" and figuratively as "material energy", "life force", or "energy flow". The Chinese had an early understanding of oxygen because they knew that Qi and blood belong together but yet they are separate entities and Qi is necessary to vitalize every living cell. Today we know that oxygen binds to hemoglobin in the red blood cells and is essential for every cells metabolism. But Qi also reflects the full nutritional spectrum of the blood and the entire metabolism such as vitamin b12 or essential amino acids, fatty acids, minerals and much more. Only a complete balanced metabolic nutritional composition is bringing true vitality to the body.
Meridians connect to the Organs
You are probably asking yourself how the acupuncturist knows the precise location of the acupuncture points. Picture a road map: a profusion of points woven into a web by lines of travel. Now imagine this 2-D system as 3-D in your body: a vast network of invisible energy pathways connecting to each other and to every atom, cell, tendon, bone, organ, each centimeter of skin—everything in your body! They link the upper portion with the lower and the surface with the interior, so that nothing is truly separate.
Now add other dimensions to this 3-D interconnected body “map”: your mind, your emotions, and spirit—everything conscious and unconscious within you. These amazing pathways are the meridians, and they form your body and all invisible aspects of your being into an intercommunicating whole.
The Liver Meridian
Each of the regular Meridians are associated with an Element or Zang-Fu organ. E.g. the Liver channel starts between the 1st and 2nd toe and runs up on the inside of the leg up to the chest and connects to the Liver. Along this Liver Meridian pathway are 14 known Acupuncture points where the Qi appears to be easier accessible, each with different function.
There are twelve major meridians that run on each side of the body, one side mirroring the other. Each meridian corresponds to a different internal organ. And each organ, with its own physiological and invisible energy functions, is not only dependent on the other organ systems but also on the greater meridian network.
Acupuncture Styles
At NatureWorks Acupuncture you we offer a variety of Acupuncture styles ranging from Chinese to Japanese techniques. Every individual patient is assessed as to what approach is the best to achieve healing. Some conditions require local needles and some require the Tan style distal needling. Some patients are more responsive to chinese needling, some more to non-insertion Japanese styles. We even offer trigger point needling or japanese electro-diode techniques. Moxibustion, Cupping and Gu Sha are excellent options to deal with chronic pain problems.
We are certified in National Acupuncture Detox.
Cosmetic Microneedling
Give yourself the gift of facial micro-needling ! More people are now discovering the powerful effects of cosmetic acupuncture and professional microneedles! Microneedles in conjunction with natural hyaluronic acid and powerful apple/cell products have wrinkle reducing benefits and help healing the facial skin from the bottom up by activating renewal cells. Toxins are removed and your deeper layer skin cells will get a chance to come up and renew your derma. This procedure can reduce age spots, skin sagging and even old scars. The combination of proper internal omega3 supplementation reduces skin inflammation long term!
