World Acupuncture Day

Incorporating Natural Medicine Into Your Treatment

How Can Acupuncture Create Positive Changes In Your Body?

Increases blood flow

Reduces Inflammation

Balances hormones

Reduces pain

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Women’s Health 

Amenorrhoea is the absence of menstruation where women have not bled for 3 cycles or more.

If you don’t menstruate and go through ovulation you can’t become pregnant.

It is usually a sign of another health problem rather than a stand alone condition. Underlying causes include thyroid disorders, hormone imbalances, medications and lifestyle factors such as stress.

Chinese Medicine can assist by:

  • Regulating the endocrine system
  • Regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis (HPOA) which controls the female reproductive functions
  • Restoring balance to the body

“The present study highlights effects of alternative interventions for the management of hyperandrogenism and amenorrhea”
     - American Journal of Physiology

1. Jedel, E., Labrie, F., Odén, A., Holm, G., Nilsson, L., Janson, P., Lind, A., Ohlsson, C. and Stener-Victorin, E., 2011. Impact of electro-acupuncture and physical exercise on hyperandrogenism and oligo/amenorrhea in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, 300(1), pp.E37-E45.

2. Chen, B., 1997. ACUPUNCTURE NORMALIZES DYSFUNCTION OF HYPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY-OVARIAN AXIS. Acupuncture & Electro-Therapeutics Research, 22(2), pp.97-108.

3. Zhao, H., Tian, Z. and Chen, B., 2005. Electroacupuncture stimulates hypothalamic aromatization. Brain Research, 1037(1-2), pp.164-170

Amenorrhoea

Hormones dictate a great deal of our bodily processes, especially menstruation and fertility.

As well as having an impact on other processes such as sleep, weight, appetite, mood, stress and body temperature.

So when hormone levels are affected it can have an impact on many aspects of our body which can affect our reproductive environment.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Regulating the endocrine system
  • Supporting the natural rhythm of hormones
  • Reducing side effects of adjunct hormonal therapies

“Acupuncture was effective in restoring the normal endocrine and metabolic function”
     - Complementary Therapies in Medicine Journal

1. Cao, Y., Chen, H., Zhao, D., Zhang, L., Yu, X., Zhou, X. and Liu, Z., 2019. The efficacy of Tung’s acupuncture for sex hormones in polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 44, pp.182-188.

Hormone Imbalances

The prevalence of PCOS is as high as 15% and accounts for 70-90% of ovulatory disorders. 

Hormonal dysfunction is a hallmark feature of PCOS that results in irregular or no periods, absent or intermittent ovulation and infertility. 

There are also cysts present which produce androgens which can also prevent ovulation.  

Chinese Medicine assists by: 

  • Regulating hormonal imbalances
  • Regulating the hypothalamic‐pituitary ovarian axis, which in turn affects the menstruation cycle 
  • Regulating the endocrine system
  • Improving ovulation rates

“Ovulation rates were significantly improved by acupuncture only when it was compared with no treatment”
     - Medicine (Baltimore) Journal

1. Jo, J., Lee, Y. and Lee, H., 2017. Acupuncture for polycystic ovarian syndrome. Medicine, 96(23), p.e7066.

2. Ma, Q. and Tan, Y., 2017. Effectiveness of co-treatment with traditional Chinese medicine and letrozole for polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta-analysis. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 15(2), pp.95-101.

3. Yin, Y., Zhang, Y., Zhang, H., Jiang, D. and Guo, G., 2018. Clinical therapeutic effects of acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal

4. medicine on infertility of polycystic ovary syndrome in the patients with ovulation induction with letrozole. Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion Journal,.

5. Li, J., Ng, E., Stener-Victorin, E., Hu, Z., Wu, W., Lai, M., Wu, T. and Ma, H., 2016. Comparison of acupuncture pretreatment followed by letrozole versus letrozole alone on live birth in anovulatory infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open, 6(10), p.e010955.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Endometriosis is an oestrogen dependent inflammatory condition.

It affects 5%–15% of reproductive-age women causing infertility and pain.

Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility as severe cases can distort the anatomy of the tubes and ovaries, cause scarring, inflammation, changes in the hormonal environment and affect implantation of pregnancy.

The current conventional treatments involve hormonal medications and surgery.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Activating the body’s natural pain inhibitory systems
  • Enhancing the immune system to eliminate misplaced endometrial tissue
  • Regulating hormones to inhibit the growth of endometrial tissue

“Acupuncture enhances the ability of the immune system to more actively eliminate malignant cells”
     - Evidence Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine

1. Xu, Y., Zhao, W., Li, T., Zhao, Y., Bu, H. and Song, S., 2017. Effects of acupuncture for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLOS ONE, 12(10), p.e0186616.

2. Lund, I. and Lundeberg, T., 2016. Is acupuncture effective in the treatment of pain in endometriosis?. Journal of Pain Research, p.157.

3. Johnston, M., Ortiz Sánchez, E., Vujanovic, N. and Li, W., 2011. Acupuncture May Stimulate Anticancer Immunity via Activation of Natural Killer Cells. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, pp.1-14.

Endometriosis

Having an irregular cycle, including a long or short cycle, light or heavy bleed and missing a period can contribute to infertility.

As this can mean that a woman may not be regularly ovulating.

Abnormal periods can be caused by so many factors such as stress, weight, birth control pills, fibroids, endometriosis, PCOS or hormonal imbalance.

The main recommendation by Western Medicine for irregular menses is to take birth control medication to regulate it.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Regulating hormone levels
  • Regulating the nervous system
  • Reducing symptoms associated with menstruation

“A systematic review revealed that there was an improvement in the menstrual frequency of PCOS patients after acupuncture treatment”
     - Medicine (Baltimore) Journal

1. Zhou, J., Yang, L., Yu, J., Wang, Y. and Liu, Z., 2017. Efficacy of acupuncture on menstrual frequency in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Medicine, 96(47), p.e8828.

Irregular Menses

Uterine fibroids are a common benign growth that is characterised by abdominal pain and irregular bleeding. It may also affect fertility.

Some women don’t present with any symptoms. 

The main treatment for uterine fibroids is surgery and drug treatment. 

However they may not be suitable for all women particularly those in their fertile years. 

Chinese Medicine assists by: 

  • Regulating female sex hormones
  • Improving blood circulation in the pelvic cavity
  • Adjusting the metabolism of connective tissue to regulate growth

“Acupuncture as a treatment for UF is well-founded and may have long-term effects”
     - Medicine (Baltimore) Journal

1. Zheng, M., Weng, C., Hu, W., Shen, C., Tao, Y. and Pan, Z., 2020. Efficacy assessment of acupuncture in improving symptoms of uterine fibroids. Medicine, 99(18), p.e20016.

Uterine Fibroids
Fertility

Fertility

Elevated FSH may indicate a loss of ovarian function, menopause or PCOS.

This negatively affects fertility chances as it is a reflection of how few eggs are going through the maturation process in the ovaries.

Prompt treatment in these cases are necessary to prevent further ovarian failure.

Chinese Medicine can assist by:

  • Regulating the hypothalamus, pituitary and ovaries to correct reproductive dysfunction
  • Improving blood flow and structure of ovarian tissue
  • Improving menstruation conditions

“Clinical observations suggested that acupuncture can be potentially used to increase the efficient/response rate of clinical treatment of POI, improve menstrual conditions, reduce serum FSH and LH levels, and increase serum estradiol levels”
     - Medicine (Baltimore) Journal

1. Shen, X., Du, Y., Yan, L., Xia, Y., Yan, H., Han, G., Guo, Y. and Shi, X., 2005. Acupuncture for treatment of climacteric syndrome--a report of 35 cases. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine,.

2. Shi, Y., Li, L., Zhou, J., Sun, J., Chen, L., Zhao, J., Wu, L., Cui, Y., Wu, L. and Wu, H., 2019. Efficacy of electroacupuncture in regulating the imbalance of AMH and FSH to improve follicle development and hyperandrogenism in PCOS rats. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 113, p.108687.

3. Huang, L., Chen, Y., Luo, M., Tang, Y. and Wei, S., 2019. Acupuncture for patients with premature ovarian insufficiency. Medicine, 98(18), p.e15444.

Elevated FSH

Immune related conditions can cause barriers to fertility.

Particularly in autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks your own tissues causing inflammation and damage.

Autoimmune diseases can affect the thyroid, joints and even the ovaries.

When these systems are affected it can disrupt the synchronised interactions of reproduction.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Regulating the neuroendocrine system
  • Reducing inflammation
  • Restoring the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis
  • Activating natural killer cells to regulate cell growth
  • Reducing uterine receptivity

“Acupuncture was effective in restoring the normal endocrine and metabolic function”
     - Complementary Therapies in Medicine Journal

1. Cao, Y., Chen, H., Zhao, D., Zhang, L., Yu, X., Zhou, X. and Liu, Z., 2019. The efficacy of Tung’s acupuncture for sex hormones in polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 44, pp.182-188.

2. Johnston, M., Ortiz Sánchez, E., Vujanovic, N. and Li, W., 2011. Acupuncture May Stimulate Anticancer Immunity via Activation of Natural Killer Cells. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, pp.1-14.

3. Saraswati, W., Dahlan, E., Saputra, K. and Sutrisno, T., 2019. Effect of Electroacupuncture on Natural-Killer Cells and Tumor Size in Patients with Cervical Squamous-Cell Carcinoma: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Medical Acupuncture, 31(1), pp.29-36.

4. Zhong, Y., Zeng, F., Liu, W., Ma, J., Guan, Y. and Song, Y., 2019. Acupuncture in improving endometrial receptivity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 19(1).

Immunological Factors

A luteal phase should be 14 days which allows a fertilised egg enough time to implant and to signal to the body that it has implanted. 

Luteal phase defect (LPD) is when this phase lasts less than 12 days and becomes too short for the endometrium to develop to support a fertilised egg. 

This leads to women having trouble conceiving and sustaining a pregnancy in the early stages. 

Chinese Medicine assists by: 

  • Increasing the uterus lining in preparation for implantation
  • Regulating hormone production
  • Targeting underlying conditions contributing to LPD such as PCOS and hypothyroidism

1. Cochrane, S., Smith, C., Possamai-Inesedy, A. and Bensoussan, A., 2014. Acupuncture and women’s health: an overview of the role of acupuncture and its clinical management in women’s reproductive health. International Journal of Women's Health,.

Luteal Phase Defect (LPD)

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a procedure that places sperm directly into the uterus.

The aim is for the sperm to fertilise a waiting egg, resulting in a normal pregnancy.

IUI can be coordinated with your normal cycle or with fertility medications.

Chinese Medicine can assist by:

  • Improving pregnancy outcomes for recurrent pregnancy loss
  • Increasing blood flow to your uterus and ovaries to support implantation
  • Supporting your body’s overall health during pregnancy for a successful birth

1. Bostonivf.com. 2020. Boston IVF's Fertility Acupuncture Improves Pregnancy Rates. [online] Available at: <https://www.bostonivf.com/wellness-center/fertility-acupuncture-program> [Accessed 23 September 2020].

2. Smith, C., de Lacey, S., Chapman, M., Ratcliffe, J., Norman, R., Johnson, N. and Fahey, P., 2019. The effects of acupuncture on the secondary outcomes of anxiety and quality of life for women undergoing IVF: A randomized controlled trial. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 98(4), pp.460-469.

3. Xie, Z., Peng, Z., Yao, B., Chen, L., Mu, Y., Cheng, J., Li, Q., Luo, X., Yang, P. and Xia, Y., 2019. The effects of acupuncture on pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 19(1).

4. Smith, C., Armour, M., Shewamene, Z., Tan, H., Norman, R. and Johnson, N., 2019. Acupuncture performed around the time of embryo transfer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 38(3), pp.364-379.

IUI Support

Clinical research has highlighted the effectiveness of Acupuncture while undergoing IVF treatment. 

A systematic review of 20 clinical trials and 5130 women receiving Acupuncture alongside IVF treatment showed “a clinically significant 30% increased chance of an improved reproductive outcome”

Chinese Medicine assists by: 

  • Improving the effectiveness of the IVF drugs
  • Relaxing the uterus and addressing uterine spasm after embryo transfer
  • Increasing blood flow to the ovaries during the stimulating process

“A benefit from trials of acupuncture when administered within 1 day of embryo transfer increased clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy and live births when compared with no adjunctive treatment”
     - Reproductive Biomedicine Online Journal

“There was evidence of fewer miscarriages when acupuncture was compared with no adjunctive treatment”
     - Reproductive Biomedicine Online Journal

1. Smith, C., de Lacey, S., Chapman, M., Ratcliffe, J., Norman, R., Johnson, N. and Fahey, P., 2019. The effects of acupuncture on the secondary outcomes of anxiety and quality of life for women undergoing IVF: A randomized controlled trial. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 98(4), pp.460-469.

2. Xie, Z., Peng, Z., Yao, B., Chen, L., Mu, Y., Cheng, J., Li, Q., Luo, X., Yang, P. and Xia, Y., 2019. The effects of acupuncture on pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 19(1).

3. Smith, C., Armour, M., Shewamene, Z., Tan, H., Norman, R. and Johnson, N., 2019. Acupuncture performed around the time of embryo transfer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 38(3), pp.364-379.

IVF Support

Male infertility factor contributes to infertility in approximately 50% of couples who fail to conceive.

Which makes it equally as important to consider male infertility in the process of failed conception. 

Treatments that affect sperm quality from a Chinese medicine and Western medicine perspective can take a minimum of 3-4 months, so it is best to start treatments as soon as possible. 

Chinese Medicine assists by: 

  • Increasing sperm motility
  • Increasing blood flow to the testicals
  • Increasing sperm concentration

“The percentage of morphologically normal sperm increased significantly after acupuncture”
     - Fertility & Sterility Journal

1. Katz, D., Teloken, P. and Shoshany, O., 2017. Male infertility - The other side of the equation. Australian Family Physician Journal,.

2. Hong, C., Ku, J. and Wu, P., 1992. Astragalus Membranaceus Stimulates Human Sperm Motility In Vitro. The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 20(03n04), pp.289-294.

3. Kwon, O., Jerng, U., Jo, J., Lee, S. and Lee, J., 2014. The effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for poor semen quality in infertile males: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian Journal of Andrology, 16(6), p.884.

4. Fleckenstein, J., Dieterle, S., Li, C., Greb, R., Bartzsch, F., Hatzmann, W. and Huang, D., 2010. A prospective randomized placebo-controlled study of the effect of acupuncture in infertile patients with severe oligoasthenozoospermia. Deutsche Zeitschrift für Akupunktur, 53(1), pp.44-45.

Male Infertility Factor

Digestive Issues

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is where the digestive contents leak backwards into the esophagus.

Long term injury to the lining of the esophagus paired with related reflux drug use can induce more complicated adverse effects.

There is also a high rate of recurrence after withdrawal of reflux medications.

Chinese Medicine provides an effective and safe treatment approach to GERD.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Decreasing the duration of acid exposure to the esophagus
  • Modulating the effect on the esophagus’s senses
  • Regulating esophageal movement

“A meta-analysis including 12 studies has shown that acupuncture is effective in improving global symptoms and quality of life, reducing recurrence rate and without adverse events”(1)
     - Biomedical Journal Open

1. Li, D., Zhu, L. and Liu, D., 2019. Acupuncture for refractory gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol. BMJ Open, 9(8), p.e030713.

2. Yin, J. and Chen, J., 2010. Gastrointestinal motility disorders and acupuncture. Autonomic Neuroscience, 157(1-2), pp.31-37.

3. DICKMAN, R., SCHIFF, E., HOLLAND, A., WRIGHT, C., SARELA, S., HAN, B. and FASS, R., 2007. Clinical trial: acupuncture vs. doubling the proton pump inhibitor dose in refractory heartburn. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 26(10), pp.1333-1344.

GERD

Crohn’s disease is a type of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

It can affect any area of the gastrointestinal tract, and causes symptoms including persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, as well as weight loss.

Current medical therapies mainly focus on immune modulation. But Crohn’s disease is multifaceted and goes beyond inflammation.

A systemic approach is required to address gut microbial imbalances, gut motility and sensory dysfunction and psychological factors.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Decreasing activity and inflammation by controlling the immune response
  • Modulating gut bacteria and improving the gastrointestinal barrier
  • Calming the nervous system down
  • Alleviating pain via activation of neurotransmitters

“Acupuncture has been shown to decrease disease activity and inflammation via increase of vagal activity in inflammatory bowel disease”
     - Inflammatory Bowel Disease Journal

1. Bao, C., Liu, P., Liu, H., Jin, X., Calhoun, V., Wu, L., Shi, Y., Zhang, J., Zeng, X., Ma, L., Qin, W., Zhang, J., Liu, X., Tian, J. and Wu, H., 2016. Different brain responses to electro-acupuncture and moxibustion treatment in patients with Crohn’s disease. Scientific Reports, 6(1).

2. Song, G., Fiocchi, C. and Achkar, J., 2018. Acupuncture in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, 25(7), pp.1129-1139.

Crohn’s Disease

Diarrhoea is distinguished by a change of bowel habits with or without recurrent abdominal pain and discomfort.

The conventional treatments for diarrhea are focused on symptom management.

Chinese Medicine is a non-pharmacological approach in the treatment of diarrhoea.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Reducing the severity, frequency, recurrence and discomfort of episodes
  • Targeting the nervous system to regulate intestinal movement
  • Regulating intestinal movement

“The antidiarrheal effect has been connected to the regulation of the excitation of sympathetic nerves”
     - Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine

1. Chao, G., 2014. Effectiveness of acupuncture to treat irritable bowel syndrome: A meta-analysis. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 20(7), p.1871.

2. Qin, Z., Li, B., Wu, J., Tian, J., Xie, S., Mao, Z., Zhou, J., Kim, T. and Liu, Z., 2017. Acupuncture for chronic diarrhea in adults. Medicine, 96(4), p.e5952.

3. Yan, J., Miao, Z., Lu, J., Ge, F., Yu, L., Shang, W., Liu, L. and Sun, Z., 2019. Acupuncture plus Chinese Herbal Medicine for Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019, pp.1-16.

Diarrhoea

IBS has a broad definition and is likely to represent multiple different conditions with varying contributing mechanisms.

These include food intolerance, stress and anxiety, systemic inflammation and disrupted gut bacteria.

IBS leads to significant impairment to quality of life. There are still no universally accepted treatments for IBS.

Chinese Medicine looks beyond the manifesting symptoms and targets the root cause.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Reducing hypersensitivity of the gut
  • Decreasing inflammatory processes
  • Inhibiting hyperactive intestinal movement

“The effect of acupuncture treatment on diarrhoea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome was better than that of the assessed drugs, with close to no side effects”
     - Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine

1. Zhu, L., Ma, Y., Ye, S., & Shu, Z. (2018). Acupuncture for Diarrhoea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Network Meta-Analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary And Alternative Medicine, 2018, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/2890465

2. Chao, G., 2014. Effectiveness of acupuncture to treat irritable bowel syndrome: A meta-analysis. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 20(7), p.1871.

3. Yan, J., Miao, Z., Lu, J., Ge, F., Yu, L., Shang, W., Liu, L. and Sun, Z., 2019. Acupuncture plus Chinese Herbal Medicine for Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019, pp.1-16.

4. C. Ford, A., E. Lacy, B. and J. Talley, N., 2017. Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The New England Journal of Medicine,

IBS

Gastritis is commonly a long term illness with repeated attacks.

It causes changes in the intestinal environment and increases the risk of developing into gastric cancer.

The quality of life is severely affected in those with gastritis.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Regulating the nervous system to regulate the functions of the gastrointestinal tract
  • Improving gastric lining thickness
  • Controlling gastric acid secretion

“Acupuncture and moxibustion have definite therapeutic effects for chronic atrophic gastritis, especially in improving the symptoms”(3)
     - Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine

1. Liu, C., Chen, J., Chang, X., He, Q., Shen, J., Lian, L., Wang, Y., Zhang, Y., Ma, F., Huang, H. and Yang, Z., 2017. Comparative metabolomics study on therapeutic mechanism of electro-acupuncture and moxibustion on rats with chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG). Scientific Reports, 7(1).

2. Li, Y., Zhang, Y., Meng, H., Liao, M., Su, Z., Zhai, M., Jiang, L., Li, P. and Ding, X., 2019. Efficacy and safety of acupuncture therapy for chronic atrophic gastritis. Medicine, 98(35), p.e17003.

3. Gao, X., Yuan, J., Li, H. and Ren, S., 2007. Clinical research on acupuncture and moxibustion treatment of chronic atrophic gastritis. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine,.

Gastritis

Stool softeners, laxatives and other drugs along with lifestyle or dietary modifications are common treatments for constipation.

Conventional treatments may be associated with unwanted side effects, such as bloating, dehydration, a high recurrence rate after ceasing drugs.

Whether constipation is due to neurological disease from injury to the nervous system, thyroid conditions, cancer, surgery, stroke, medication side effects or just lifestyle factors, Chinese Medicine can improve the passage of stools.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Improving intestinal transit time
  • Moistening intestinal lining
    Increase intestinal movement
  • Reducing reliance on laxatives and medications
  • Promoting intestinal movement
  • Regulating body fluids
  • Stimulating the parasympathetic nerve to restore defecation senses

“Compared with medication, especially with Western medication, acupuncture yielded better outcomes in patients with functional constipation”
     - Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine

1. Tao, B., Chao, S., Cuihong, Z. and Guangying, H., 2016. Acupuncture for the treatment of functional constipation. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 36(5), pp.578-587.

2. Zhai, J., Mu, W., Si, J., Li, Y., Zhao, C., Shang, H., Li, H. and Tian, G., 2018. Acupuncture for constipation in patients with stroke: protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open, 8(3), p.e020400.

Constipation
Digestive Issues
Pain Management

Pain Management

The shoulder joint has one of the most freedom of movement in the body, however that comes at the expense of stability. 

And it is this intricate structural design of the shoulder that allows it a great deal of mobility that also causes it to be susceptible to dysfunction. 

Chinese Medicine assists by: 

  • Reducing inflammation 
  • Releasing the body’s natural pain killers 
  • Improving circulation to the shoulder to promote rehabilitation

“Conventional acupuncture alone results in relative improvements in painful conditions in shoulder pain patients; combined interventions may have more global effects”
     - Journal of Pain Research

1. Shi, G., Liu, B., Wang, J., Fu, Q., Sun, S., Liang, R., Li, J., Tu, J., Tan, C. and Liu, C., 2018. Motion style acupuncture therapy for shoulder pain: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Pain Research, Volume 11, pp.2039-2050.

Shoulder Pain

Nerve pain or neuropathy is when there is direct damage or irritation to a nerve.

It is likely to be nerve pain if it feels like burning, stabbing, tingly, shooting or numb.

There can be a range of causes for nerve pain such as chemotherapy, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, disc herniations and even as a side effect of some drugs.

And oftentimes there is no obvious cause.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Stimulating damaged nerve fibres
  • Regulating the central nervous system to moderate the pain centres of the brain
  • Enabling the body’s pain inhibitory pathways

“Which indicates reduction in neuropathic pain symptoms after acupuncture treatment”
     - Integrative Cancer Therapies

1. Zhi, W., Ingram, E., Li, S., Chen, P., Piulson, L. and Bao, T., 2018. Acupuncture for Bortezomib-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: Not Just for Pain. Integrative Cancer Therapies, 17(4), pp.1079-1086.

2. Ju, Z., Wang, K., Cui, H., Yao, Y., Liu, S., Zhou, J., Chen, T. and Xia, J., 2016. Acupuncture for neuropathic pain in adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews,.

Nerve Pain

Back pain is experienced by the majority of us at some point in life. Whether it be from an injury, surgery, repetitive movements, posture or pregnancy.

The trend in people with back pain involves inactivity due to the pain which leads to functional disability. Which then in turn contributes to more pain due to the lack of movements in the joints.

This cyclical pattern of back pain that progressively gets worse requires a treatment strategy that utilizes a multidisciplinary approach.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Releasing neurotransmitters that has a pain relieving effect
  • Improving circulation to the injured area
  • Activating inhibitory systems to block pain signals

“This pilot study demonstrates that acupuncture is feasible as a therapy for lower back pain in the emergency department”
     - The American Journal of Emergency Medicine

1. Lim, T., Ma, Y., Berger, F. and Litscher, G., 2018. Acupuncture and Neural Mechanism in the Management of Low Back Pain—An Update. Medicines, 5(3), p.63.

Back Pain

Fibromyalgia is a complex condition with no precise cause or medical treatment.

It involves complex non specific pain experiences with a range of other symptoms including sleep disturbances, fatigue, headache, mood disorders and joint stiffness.

One in five fibromyalgia sufferers use acupuncture treatment within two years of diagnosis.

The advantage of Chinese Medicine is that it produces few side effects compared to many drugs used to treat fibromyalgia.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Adjusting neuroendocrine functions to have a calming effect on the nervous system
  • Reducing stress and circulating cortisol levels to prevent symptoms being triggered
  • Activating a cascade of pain modulating processes

“Acupuncture significantly reduced pain when compared with medication”
     - Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews

1. Clarke, T., 2020. Treatment Of Fibromyalgia With Acupuncture And Counseling | British Columbia Medical Journal. [online] British Columbia Medical Journal. Available at: <https://www.bcmj.org/articles/treatment-fibromyalgia-acupuncture-and-counseling> [Accessed 29 September 2020].

2. Deare, J., Zheng, Z., Xue, C., Liu, J., Shang, J., Scott, S. and Littlejohn, G., 2013. Acupuncture for treating fibromyalgia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews,.

Fibromyalgia

Tendonitis is a common disorder, where the tendon that connects the muscle to the bone, becomes inflamed.

It includes many different conditions such as golfers elbow, tennis elbow, achilles tendonitis, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.

Tendonitis results in significant pain and a decrease in range of motion.

Current treatment for tendonitis consists of rest, anti-inflammatory medication and corticosteroid injections.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Reducing inflammation
  • Reducing tendon thickness as measured by ultrasound
  • Increase blood circulation to assist in the repair

“Radiologic evaluation revealed complete resolution of the calcific deposit”(1)
     - Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies

“Radiological evaluation demonstrated almost complete absorption of calcific deposits within 6 months, after treatment”(1)

  • Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies

1. Papadopoulos, G., Mavrodontidis, A., Liarmakopoulou, A., Tzimas, P., Angelidakis, G., Koulouvaris, P. and Petrou, A., 2018. Electroacupuncture for the Treatment of Calcific Tendonitis. A Pilot Study. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 11(2), pp.47-53.

2. Lim, H., Kim, M., Lee, C. and Namgung, U., 2016. Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Acupuncture Stimulation via the Vagus Nerve. PLOS One,.

3. Ural, F., Öztürk, G., Bölük, H. and Akkuş, S., 2017. Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Acupuncture Effect on Common Extensor Tendon Thickness in Patients with Lateral Epicondylitis: A Randomized Controlled Study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 23(10), pp.819-822.

4. Hadianfard, M., Ashraf, A., Fakheri, M. and Nasiri, A., 2014. Efficacy of Acupuncture versus Local Methylprednisolone Acetate Injection in De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 7(3), pp.115-121.

Tendonitis

Osteoarthritis is when the joint loses cartilage due to age, injury and repetitive use.

It is a progressive condition that diminishes the quality of life leading many to require surgical intervention.

There are no cures for osteoarthritis but there are treatment options that prevent the further progression of degeneration and pain.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Stimulating the nervous system to release chemicals that suppress pain
  • Regulating  inflammation
  • Complementing any adjunct therapies

“When compared with waiting list controls, acupuncture was associated with clinically and statistically significant improvements in osteoarthritis pain”
     - American Family Physician Journal

1. Manheimer, E., Cheng, K., Wieland, L., Shen, X., Lao, L., Guo, M. and Berman, B., 2018. Acupuncture for hip osteoarthritis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews,.

2. Vickers, A., Vertosick, E., Lewith, G., MacPherson, H., Foster, N., Sherman, K., Irnich, D., Witt, C. and Linde, K., 2018. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. The Journal of Pain, 19(5), pp.455-474.

3. Manyanga, T., Froese, M., Zarychanski, R., Abou-Setta, A., Friesen, C., Tennenhouse, M. and Shay, B., 2014. Pain management with acupuncture in osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 14(1).

4. Corbett, M., Rice, S., Madurasinghe, V., Slack, R., Fayter, D., Harden, M., Sutton, A., MacPherson, H. and Woolacott, N., 2013. Acupuncture and other physical treatments for the relief of pain due to osteoarthritis of the knee: network meta-analysis. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 21(9), pp.1290-1298.

5. B Kelly, R. and Willis, J., 2019. Acupuncture for Pain. American Family Physician Journal,.

Osteoarthritis

Emotional Conditions

Stress releases negative chemicals in our body and impairs the body's ability to recover and also impairs the immune system.

It can contribute to a wide range of symptoms such as weight gain, headaches, digestive disturbances, palpitations, sleep disorders, hormonal imbalances and substance abuse.

Chinese Medicine is able to offset the effects of the stress.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Calming the nervous system down
  • Facilitating better resistance to stress
  • Decreasing the stress hormone (cortisol)
  • Increasing the euphoric hormone (endorphin)

“The decrease in stress level persisted after the completion of treatment”
     - Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies

1 .Arvidsdotter, T., Marklund, B., & Taft, C. (2013). Effects of an integrative treatment, therapeutic acupuncture and conventional treatment in alleviating psychological distress in primary care patients–a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 13(1), 308. http://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-13-308

2. Harbach H, Moll B, Boedeker RH, et al. Minimal immunoreactive plasma b-endorphin and decrease of cortisol at standard analgesia or different acupuncture techniques. European Journal of Anaesthesiology. 2007; 24:370-6

3. Agelink MW, Sanner D, Eich H, Pach J, Bertling R, Lemmer W, Klieser E, Lehmann E. Does acupuncture influence the cardiac autonomic nervous system in patients with minor depression or anxiety disorders? Fortschritte der Neurologie-Psychiatrie. 2003;71:141-9

4. Lee, M., Ryu, J., Won, S., Namgung, U., Jung, J., Lee, S. and Park, J., 2019. Effects of Acupuncture on Chronic Stress-Induced Depression-Like Behavior and Its Central Neural Mechanism. Frontiers in Psychology, 10.

5. Schroeder, S., 2018. The effectiveness of acupuncture therapy on stress in a large urban college population. Alternative & Integrative Medicine, 07.

Stress

PTSD treatments involve a broad scope of treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy and drug therapy.

However drug therapies such as SSRI therapies typically have side effects that include sexual dysfunction, weight gain and sleep disturbances.

Chinese Medicine provides a safe and effective alternative to SSRI.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Reducing severity of symptoms
  • Decreasing rate of relapse
  • Increasing response to other therapy

“Our main finding of this review is that acupuncture is effective for PTSD”
     - Evidence Based Complementary Alternative Medicine

1. Kim, Y., Heo, I., Shin, B., Crawford, C., Kang, H. and Lim, J., 2013. Acupuncture for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Prospective Clinical Trials. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013, pp.1-12.

PTSD

PMDD is a relatively new condition that has made its way into the diagnosis of healthcare professionals.

However, PMDD symptoms have been around in women much longer. With symptoms that can have a severe impact on quality of life.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Balancing fluctuations of hormones to manage emotional and physical symptoms
  • Modulating the stress response
  • Increasing concentration
  • Decreasing fatigue

“Acupuncture and herbal medicine treatments for premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder showed a 50% or better reduction of symptoms compared to the initial state”
     - BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies

1. Jang, S., Kim, D. and Choi, M., 2014. Effects and treatment methods of acupuncture and herbal medicine for premenstrual syndrome/premenstrual dysphoric disorder: systematic review. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 14(1).

PMDD

Depression is a serious condition that is a huge burden on the individual's health. It is commonly associated with chronic fatigue, inflammatory disorders and weight gain.

Depression has multiple inputs contributing to the disease and so a multifactorial approach is also required.

In combination with psychotherapy, Chinese Medicine is able to balance the body’s internal disharmonies.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Producing significant changes in the brain that regulate emotional states as measured by fMRI
  • Regulating neurotransmitters responsible for mood
  • Decreasing fatigue

“Acupuncture is an effective therapeutic approach for improving symptoms of depression”
     - Frontiers In Psychology Journal

1. Lee, M., Ryu, J., Won, S., Namgung, U., Jung, J., Lee, S. and Park, J., 2019. Effects of Acupuncture on Chronic Stress-Induced Depression-Like Behavior and Its Central Neural Mechanism. Frontiers in Psychology, 10.

Depression

Anxiety causes a huge dampening effect on our systems and prioritises our bodys attention to dealing with the anxiety.

So when you need your systems to be focusing on fertility, supporting your children, workload or even repairing tissues from cancer treatment,  Chinese Medicine is able to recalibrate your body's focus.

Anxiety is a complicated condition with multiple contributing factors, therefore a combination of psychotherapy, conventional medical treatment and Chinese Medicine makes for a more holistic treatment.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Reducing the physical and emotional impact of anxiety episodes on the body
  • Reducing physical symptoms as measured by heart rate variability
  • Calming the nervous system down

“The acupuncture group had a significant reduction in anxiety and immunohistochemical markers while the sham acupuncture points were proven ineffective”
     - CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics

1. Arvidsdotter, T., Marklund, B., & Taft, C. (2013). Effects of an integrative treatment, therapeutic acupuncture and conventional treatment in alleviating psychological distress in primary care patients–a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 13(1), 308. http://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-13-308

2. Harbach H, Moll B, Boedeker RH, et al. Minimal immunoreactive plasma b-endorphin and decrease of cortisol at standard analgesia or different acupuncture techniques. European Journal of Anaesthesiology. 2007; 24:370-6

3. Agelink MW, Sanner D, Eich H, Pach J, Bertling R, Lemmer W, Klieser E, Lehmann E. Does acupuncture influence the cardiac autonomic nervous system in patients with minor depression or anxiety disorders? Fortschritte der Neurologie-Psychiatrie. 2003;71:141-9

Anxiety

Currently the standard treatment for postpartum depression (PPD) is pharmacotherapy.

Some postpartum women are reluctant to take antidepressants due to side effects and so treatment strategies such as Chinese Medicine are employed.

Chinese Medicine assists by:

  • Rebalancing hormones
  • Regulating brain signals and chemicals
  • Replenishing the body's reserves after childbirth

“Previous meta-analysis has demonstrated that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for depressive disorders”
     - BioMed Research International Journal

1. Li, W., Yin, P., Lao, L. and Xu, S., 2019. Effectiveness of Acupuncture Used for the Management of Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. BioMed Research International, 2019, pp.1-8.

2. Yue, N., Li, B., Yang, L., Han, Q., Huang, H., Wang, Y., Wang, J., Yu, R., Wu, G., Liu, Q. and Yu, J., 2018. Electro-Acupuncture Alleviates Chronic Unpredictable Stress-Induced Depressive- and Anxiety-Like Behavior and Hippocampal Neuroinflammation in Rat Model of Depression. Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience, 11.

Postpartum Depression
Emotional Conditions

How our acupuncturists have helped a range of different people at our last acupuncture event:

Why Our Acupuncturists Are Unique

  • All of our Acupuncturists are trained in the world famous Neuro-Acupuncture method
  • All of our Acupuncturists have minimal 6 years experience and are lead by Chief practitioner Dr Scott Ling who has 15 years of experience in practicing acupuncture
  • All of our Acupuncturists commit to continual learning and development every year
Dr Evan Pritchard our practitioner team img

Dr Evan Pritchard

Senior Acupuncturist & Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Dr Jacqueline Heng our practitioner team img

Dr Jacqueline Heng

SENIOR ACUPUNCTURIST & CHINESE MEDICINE PRACTITIONER

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  1. Zheng, M., Weng, C., Hu, W., Shen, C., Tao, Y. and Pan, Z., 2020. Efficacy assessment of acupuncture in improving symptoms of uterine fibroids. Medicine, 99(18), p.e20016.
  2. Lim, H., Kim, M., Lee, C. and Namgung, U., 2016. Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Acupuncture Stimulation via the Vagus Nerve. PLOS One,.
  3. Chen, B., 1997. Acupuncture Normalizes Dysfunction Of Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian Axis. Acupuncture & Electro-Therapeutics Research, 22(2), pp.97-108.
  4. Jedel, E., Labrie, F., Odén, A., Holm, G., Nilsson, L., Janson, P., Lind, A., Ohlsson, C. and Stener-Victorin, E., 2011. Impact of electro-acupuncture and physical exercise on hyperandrogenism and oligo/amenorrhea in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, 300(1), pp.E37-E45.
  5. Shi, Y., Li, L., Zhou, J., Sun, J., Chen, L., Zhao, J., Wu, L., Cui, Y., Wu, L. and Wu, H., 2019. Efficacy of electroacupuncture in regulating the imbalance of AMH and FSH to improve follicle development and hyperandrogenism in PCOS rats. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 113, p.108687.
  6. Ju, Z., Wang, K., Cui, H., Yao, Y., Liu, S., Zhou, J., Chen, T. and Xia, J., 2016. Acupuncture for neuropathic pain in adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews,.
  7.  

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