Electroacupuncture Explained

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Electroacupuncture is the specialized version of traditional acupuncture that involves running a small electrical current through the pre-placed needles. This is done in hopes of stimulating blood flow and achieving balance throughout the body. Today, we’ll explore the many benefits and uses to this newer form of TCM.

 

Invented by Chinese doctor Tang She-Cheng in 1937, it has a much shorter history in relation to the nearly 2,500 years of manual acupuncture. As a result, the practice is less widely in utilization, but does have proven benefits.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

 

So, how does it work? While it can seem scary initially, the principles are actually quite simple, and in essence, similar to manual acupuncture. Traditionally, an acupuncturist would place one needle per meridian point, and then manually stimulate the body using that needle and their hands. However, in electroacupuncture, two needles are placed per meridian point and an electrical machine is connected to these needles which sends a current back and forth, and stimulates the meridian point between. 

In electroacupuncture, two needles are inserted per meridian point, unlike traditional Chinese acupuncture.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

Some people may be understandably wary about hooking their body up to an electrical current, so what is the point? According to multiple scientific studies, electroacupuncture has some pretty significant benefits, even when compared to the time-tested standard. Some specific benefits of this variation include increased efficacy in patients with arthritis and osteoarthritis. Likewise, chemo-therapy related nausea and other chronic stress issues have been found to be reduced by this method. Specifically nerve-related issues that benefit from electrical stimulation. 

 

For example, study done by researchers at Georgetown University found that the applied use of electroacupuncture can reduce physical symptoms of chronic stress quite dramatically. Furthermore, this method can lower production stress hormones, and can be an effective addition to treatments for various conditions.

In conclusion, there are many benefits to this variation of practice, certain groups are at a higher risk for complications. If you are elderly, pregnant, have a pacemaker, other heart-related issues, or experience seizures you should not attempt electroacupuncture.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

WOULD YOU TRY ELECTROACUPUNCTURE THERAPY?

Unfamiliar with traditional acupuncture benefits? Check some out here!

Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3947586/

https://www.healthline.com/health/electroacupuncture#how-it-works

 

Your Gut is Compromised!

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YOUR GUT IS COMPROMISED!

Whether you think it is or not, it’s true. Your gut is being compromised every single day. It doesn’t matter if you have physical symptoms or not.  It’s just the reality of the world we live in today. More than any other time in history, we are exposed – no we are bombarded – with harmful chemicals on a daily basis.

And here’s something even scarier. According to a 2013 New York Times article, “Think Those Chemicals Have Been Tested?” by Ian Urbina states,

“MANY Americans assume that the chemicals in their shampoos, detergents and other consumer products have been thoroughly tested and proved to be safe. This assumption is wrong. Unlike pharmaceuticals or pesticides, industrial chemicals do not have to be tested before they are put on the market.”

Another major risk everyone is susceptible to is Leaky Gut Syndrome, which is when certain tiny particles that should never be able to enter your bloodstream start to make their way through. Leaky gut can be caused by the bombardment of chemicals and even certain foods, such as nightshades. Leaky gut syndrome often results in acute inflammation and your immune response over-performing, leading to chronic inflammation.

Over time all these attacks on your gut often result in toxic overload and a bacterial imbalance in your gut.

What can help combat this reality we face today? PROBIOTICS.

Probiotics bring your gut into balance. Potential benefits of probiotics have been seen in the treatment or prevention of

  • Diarrhea
  • Reduce symptoms of common digestive issues such as ibs, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and crohn’s disease
  • Lower cholesterol
  • Pylori (the cause of ulcers)
  • Vaginal infections
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Recurrence of bladder cancer
  • Infection of the digestive tract caused by clostridium difficile
  • Eczema in children

At To the Point Acupuncture we sell several kinds of Pure Encapsulation Probiotics. Ask Jill which Probiotic product would help combat your digestive issues, maintain your gut health, or augment your acupuncture treatment.

 

 

 

 

 

Spring Cleaning your home naturally

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Spring cleaning is a good way to air out your house, but it shouldn’t mean inhaling toxic chemicals or fumes. It is important to clean your home on a regular basis to reduce the presence of common indoor pollutants such as dust, mold, and pet dander. Unfortunately, most common cleaning products contain dangerous or questionable chemicals.

Here’s a few ideas to clean your house naturally:

  1. Air Freshener: Drop one tablespoon of baking soda into a small spray bottle and add in a few drops of your favorite essential oil to scent the air freshener. Fill the rest of the spray bottle with water. Now spring is really in the air!
  2. Windows: Mix one-part white vinegar with four parts water. Add lemon juice for a citrusy smell. Lemon juice will also provide extra grease-cutting power. Spray onto the mirror or window, and scrub off with sponge or rag.
  3. Microwave: Combine 1 cup of water and 1/4 cup of white vinegar to a microwave safe bowl. Microwave for 5 minutes. Keep the bowl in your microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes more to allow the steam to really build up. Simply wipe down the inside with a rag.
  4. Refrigerator: Mix a ½ cup of baking soda to some hot water. Dip a rag in the mixture and use it to scrub down your refrigerator.
  5. Oven: Sprinkle a cup or more of baking soda over the bottom of the oven, then cover the baking soda with enough water to make a thick paste. Let the mixture set overnight. The next morning, the grease will be easy to wipe up because the grime will have loosened. When you have cleaned up the worst of the mess, dab a bit of dish detergent or soap on a sponge, and wash the remaining residue from the oven.
  6. Toilet: Mix 1 cup of Borax, 1 cup of Vinegar, 1 cup of hot water, 10 drops lemon essential oil and 10 drops of pine essential oil. Mix into the bowl together and let sit overnight. Brush the bowl in the morning and flush.
  7. Bedding/Mattress: Don’t forget your bedding! Mix 2 cups baking soda with 10 drops of your favorite essential oils and brush into your mattress. Let sit for 30 minutes before vacuuming up.

General cleaners:

  • A 50/50 vinegar/water solution will clean tile, counters, cabinet fronts and soap scum in the shower.
  • A baking soda and water paste will clean stuck on gunk in the shower and tub (use vinegar instead of water for really tough stains)
  • For grout, sprinkle baking soda on the floor and spray with undiluted hydrogen peroxide and scrub with a gentle toothbrush.

In one afternoon, you can start to feel better about the space you live in without using toxic chemicals!

 

Acupuncture for Allergies

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Spring means warm weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities for most people. For those suffering from allergies, it means the return of familiar but unwelcome symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, sinus congestion and coughing.

Acupuncture is very effective in treating allergy symptoms and will also help boost your immune system. Chinese herbs can be taken in parallel to keep symptoms from re-occurring. Unlike antihistamines and other OTC medications for allergies-there are no side effects to Chinese herbs and your Acupuncturist will select an herb for your particular symptoms/constitution.

 

Here are a few home remedies to help you get through the season:

  1. Acupressure-the image below details where you should apply pressure along your sinuses. In most cases-stimulating the points yourself isn’t a direct substitute for receiving acupuncture treatment however applying pressure on the points below can delay the onset of your symptoms and minimize the severity of them as well.

 

  1. Use a Saline rinse/Neti-pot to irrigate your nasal cavity and clean out any mucus/debris
  2. Eliminate mucus producing foods from your diet such as dairy and sugar
  3. Take a daily tablespoon of locally produced honey
  4. Stay hydrated-drink plenty of water throughout the day

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 919 621-3363 or at To The Point Acupuncture

Acupuncture for heart health

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February is American heart health month. Traditionally, the month for lovers and all things heart related. We are reminded to take care of our heart. Heart Disease is still the leading cause of death worldwide. There are many areas of concern for heart health. For example, high blood pressure, stress, healthy diet/weight, and insomnia. Combining acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can help combat all of these!

 

High blood pressure:

Acupuncture has proven to be highly beneficial in helping to reduce high blood pressure and cholesterol. High Blood Pressure forces our heart to work harder and demand more oxygen. Acupuncture is able to counter act the heart working so hard by placing needles on specific points. For example, on the wrist, inside the forearm, or leg. This will reduce the demand for oxygen.

 

Stress and anxiety:

Acupuncture has proven to help with heart health by reducing stress and anxiety. We all encounter stress in our daily lives.  For instance, we might start to eat unhealthy, experience heart palpitations, exercise less, and tend not to sleep as well. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs can be used to help keep that stress at bay.

 

Insomnia:

Acupuncture can be used to treat insomnia, without the side effects of prescription medicines. There is evidence linking insomnia to hypertension and other cardiovascular events. Almost 75% of people who have heart failure report frequent insomnia. This one of the most common symptoms of heart failure. Acupuncture treats the entire body/mind and not just the symptoms. Your overall health will improve. In addiction to enjoying a restful nights sleep.

 

Above all, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is critical to a healthy heart. Eating healthy and regular exercise are often difficult to maintain with the busy lives we lead. Incorporating regular acupuncture sessions can build on the heart healthy actions you are already taking. If you have any questions or would like to discuss how acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help keep you and your heart healthy and strong, please don’t hesitate to call To The Point Acupuncture, LLC.

 

 

2019: Year of the Pig. A year of fortune and good luck.

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Gong Xi Fa Cái! Happy New Year!


According to Chinese astrology, this is a good year to make money. It is also a great year to build or strengthen friendships and bonds with loved ones. The Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year, is the longest and most celebrated holiday in Chinese culture. Different traditions include the cleaning of the house to sweep away the past year, the hanging of red lanterns for good luck, and eating foods which are considered “lucky” with friends and family. There are 12 animals that make up the Chinese zodiac. Each animal represents a different year. Those born in the year of that animal are said to inherit some of that animal’s qualities. 2019 marks the year of the Pig, the 12th in the 12 year cycle of the Chinese zodiac signs.

 

The Year of the Pig.
As the Year of the Dog comes to an end, the Year of the Pig emerges. This year, February 5th  2019 marks
the first day of the Year of the Pig. Those born in the Year of the Pig are said to be gentle, generous,
hard-working, and trustworthy. Pigs are always thought to be well fed and so represent abundance in
both wealth and good fortune. They love life and are optimistic by nature. Be careful though, those born
under the year of the pig can be a bit naive and tend to be a little too trustworthy, which can make them
an easy target.
The year of the Pig brings with it a more relaxed and joyous atmosphere. While feelings of wealth and
abundance reign through 2019, it is important to still maintain a close eye on expenses and your budget.
Well considered actions will be rewarded more than risk taking ones.

 

Take care of yourself.
Because the pig is social and generous by nature, he does tend to over extend himself. Some of the 12
signs under the Chinese zodiac may feel this more than others. Pigs are known to have a large appetite
and will eat almost anything. Be aware of gluttony this year. Portion control and staying active will help
keep this under control. Eating right, exercising regularly, and getting an adequate amount of sleep are
all important in maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle, and you can also add acupuncture to that list
as well. Acupuncture helps to curb cravings, boost metabolism, and maintain focus. The Year of the Pig
is predicted to be a better year for most than previous years. By keeping your body balanced and
healthy and your mind at ease you will be more suited to face any obstacles that may come your way.

Wishing you peace, health, and happiness this year and always.

Jill Doan- To The Point Acupuncture

Nourishing your body in the winter-A Chinese element perspective

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According to Chinese medicine, the organ system associated with the winter is [highlight] [/highlight] the kidneys. Winter represents the most Yin aspect-it is dark, cold and slow in energy (as opposed to Yang-which is represented by summer whose energy is light, warm and quick.) In the winter time-the days are shorter, it is colder outside and we aren’t as active. The kidney is the source of our most basic and fundamental energy (or Qi) in the body so it is essential to nourish it. Ever wonder why you might feel more tired or get sick more often in the winter? Your kidney Qi is depleted. Acupuncture is a great way to support your Qi.

Food as Medicine. In the wintertime-try and focus on warming and nourishing foods such as soups and stews.  Your kidneys are reliant on quality animal protein like unprocessed meats or eggs to build blood and circulate that blood throughout all your extremities which will in turn keep your entire body warmer. Your kidneys will also appreciate lightly incorporating minerals like sea salt (non-iodized) into your diet this time of year. Foods that are specifically nourishing to the kidneys are: black beans, bone broths, lamb, chicken, walnuts, chestnuts, black sesame seeds and dark leafy greens.

Sip some tea. If you’ve been outdoors for a period of time to build a snowman, wait for the bus, or shovel the driveway, drinking a mug of warming herbal tea once you’re back indoors is a great way to warm the kidneys. Cinnamon, ginger, and citrus are nice teas your kidneys will appreciate. Offering your kidneys, the little extra love and support they need this time of year isn’t too tricky. After all, ‘tis the season.

 

CINNAMON WALNUT FLAX MUFFINS:
Prep Time: 10 minutes                                                        Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes                                                        Servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients

  • 1 cup ground flax meal
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 cup avocado oil or any oil
  • 1/2 cup granulated sweetener (maple sugar erythritol, coconut sugar)
  • 1/4 cup coconut flour
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • pinch of sea salt
  • 1 cup walnuts chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
  2. Mix ingredients together in a mixing bowl in the order they are listed. You can use an electric mixer if you’d like, but be sure to add in walnuts last, after using a mixer.
  3. Bake at 325°F for 18 to 22 minutes.

 

HOW TO MAKE BONE BROTH:

Ingredients

  • 4 pounds beef bones with marrow
  • 4 unpeeled carrots, chopped
  • 4 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 medium onions, peel on, slices in half lengthwise and quartered
  • 4 garlic cloves, peel on and smashed
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 5-6 sprigs parsley
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 18-20 cups cold water

Instructions   

  1. Place all ingredients in a 10 quart capacity crock-pot or large pan on the stove.
  2. Add in water.
  3. Bring to a boil over high heat; reduce and simmer gently, skimming the fat that rises to the surface occasionally.
  4. Simmer for 24-48 hours.
  5. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  6. Discard solids and strain remainder in a bowl through a colander. Let stock cool to room temperature, cover and chill.
  7. Use within a week or freeze up to 3 months.

Bone broth has many health benefits. It is highly nutritious, protects the joints, help fight osteoarthritis, helps reduce inflammation and heal the gut, aid in sleep, and may support weight loss.

If you would like to learn more, please contact Jill Doan, Licensed Acupuncturist at To The Point Acupuncture, LLC. http://www.ttpacupuncture.com

Prevent Sickness

How to Prevent Sickness, Like the Flu, With Rapidly Changing Weather in Raleigh

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Prevent SicknessWith the number of flu deaths rising daily and the rapid weather changes in the Triangle, sickness seems to be lurking around every corner. How can we best protect ourselves against these viruses?

As Licensed Acupuncturist in the Triangle, I work with individuals in Raleigh and surrounding areas to help strengthen their body’s natural defenses to keep them healthy through “cold and flu season.”

3 ways to prevent sickness as we experience rapid weather changes in Raleigh are:

  1. Boost the Immune System: Acupuncture does a great job a strengthening the immune system! Each body is different and thus, each immune system is different. As an acupuncturist in Raleigh, I assess each of my patients individually and treat them accordingly.
  2. Dress Appropriately: With such rapid changes in weather, one of the simplest ways to protect ourselves from getting sick is to protect our body. Check the weather each morning before getting ready. Chinese medicine believes in keeping the feet and the back of your neck covered during cold and windy weather. Make scarfs and socks your new best friends.
  3. Nourish your body: It is important to strengthen the body inside and out. A well-nourished body is more likely to fight off sicknesses than one that is depleted of nutrients. Eat a healthy balanced diet. Extra vitamins and herbs (such as certain mushrooms) can also increase your body’s natural defenses. Fresh ginger, also known as sheng jiang in Chinese medicine, is a great immune booster and can be found in any local grocery store.

I have seen more patients coming in with the flu and other respiratory illnesses this year than in years past. I want to make sure all of my patients are making good lifestyle choices in addition to their ongoing acupuncture treatments.

If you are worried about getting sick and want to increase your immune system to help protect your body from illness naturally, please feel free to contact me at 919-621-3363.

Acupuncture Success Story

Acupuncture Success Stories

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.Acupuncture and alternative medicine practices are usually met with skepticism among those who have yet to experience them. Do they come with many questions such as will it really work? Do the needles hurt? How can a physical treatment improve my feelings of overall well-being?Acupuncture Success Story

I could go on and on about how much value I find in these treatments. However, I find that people can be better convinced if they hear about the success stories from others who might’ve been skeptical just like them!

As a practicing acupuncturist in the Raleigh/Cary area, I have many success stories which lay testimony to how well this medicine works. Here are 3 of them:

  • Combating Stress. I had a patient come to me after the loss of her 15-month-old daughter. She was seeking much-needed stress-relief, relaxation, and in general, wanted to embrace a life of balanced wellness. Within a few sessions, we saw significantly reduced pain in her back, neck, and jaw, as well as a reduction in headaches. Stress often manifests itself physically, so experiencing relief from these symptoms has allowed her to focus on the grieving and healing process and live her life with a greater sense of well-being.
  • Chronic Insomnia. Did you know that acupuncture can be a beneficial treatment for sleeplessness? One patient of mine had exhausted every resource available in Western medicine to address her chronic insomnia. After sleep studies, countless prescriptions, and neurologist visits she was convinced nothing would work. But through acupuncture, she gained control of her sleep cycle plus some bonus relief! The chronic migraines she had since she was four-years-old stopped without pain medicine. The treatments also helped her lose weight and manage her cravings (which gastric bypass was unable to accomplish).
  • Allergy Relief. I love working with people and watching their lives change in positive ways. Acupuncture can influence multiple areas, as one of my patients found out nearly seven years ago when she first came to see me regarding her severe allergies. The medications were no longer working. And, she was skeptical about acupuncture, but it changed her life and she hasn’t turned back. Over the years, acupuncture treatments have helped her to quit smoking, reduce stress, and give relief from shoulder pain.

As you can see, acupuncture can have significant benefits. Especially for those who are tired of living with chronic pain, stress, sleeplessness, and more. Almost everyone I have treated at To The Point Acupuncture has found positives benefits from their sessions, most have benefited in even more ways than they expected. If you’re ready to improve your health and well-being, contact me today and we’ll talk more!

Weight Loss with Acupuncture

4 Ways Acupuncture Can Help Boost Weight Loss Efforts

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I have read many statistics on weight loss and the numbers are staggering: one in four Americans are overweight. Even worse, Americans spend over 33 billion dollars every year on weight-loss programs. Despite all of the money spent on weight-loss, Americans have not become healthier. Actually, the statistics seem to get worse every year.Weight Loss with Acupuncture

As the owner of To the Point Acupuncture, I have been able to help many individuals boost their weight loss progress with acupuncture. But how acupuncture can help with weight loss?

4 ways acupuncture can help with weight loss:

  1. Endorphins: When we are in pain we tend to not want to exercise, which leads to weight gain. The increased weight on our joints tends to cause even more pain and so we have become locked in a vicious cycle of being in pain and overweight. So how do we break that cycle? The process of acupuncture naturally releases endorphins in the body. These endorphins help an individual feel happier and reduce the body’s perception of pain making it easier to begin an exercise program once again.
  2. Mood Changes: In America, we eat based on our moods. Commonly we eat when we are sad and depressed, hence the term “comfort foods.” Acupuncture does a great job of alleviating some of the quick mood changes which could lead to overeating.
  3. Stress: Stress can lead to increased weight gain. One way is by increasing cortisol levels in our bodies, which can lead to metabolism and immune response issues. Acupuncture is a great stress reliever for so many people. Being able to relieve some stress could be the pivotal point for an individual to start losing weight.
  4. Imbalances in the System: In Chinese medicine, excessive weight gain is regularly linked to imbalances between the spleen and liver organs. Acupuncturists are trained to zero in on specific acupuncture points that could be causing problems and are leading to weight gain.

If you believe that any of the above factors may be contributing to you struggling to lose weight, I would love to sit down and learn more about you. There are so many reasons and stressors in life that could lead to one’s inability to lose weight. It doesn’t have to be such an uphill battle! Please call me at (919) 621-3363 and let’s set up a time to chat!