The Intriguing World of Japanese Acupuncture and Hara Diagnosis

As most of you know, one of the styles of acupuncture I’ve been practicing for more than 21 years is Japanese Acupuncture. Before that, I had a thriving shiatsu practice both in NYC and in CT for years. Japanese acupuncture seems a mystery to most, so let me use this blog to explain why I love this wonderful style so much.  

Few practices hold as much intrigue and mystique to me as Japanese acupuncture and Hara diagnosis. Rooted in centuries-old traditions (classical acupuncture), this form of acupuncture offers a holistic approach to health and well-being, focusing not just on alleviating symptoms but on restoring balance to the body, mind, and spirit. 

The Essence of Japanese Acupuncture

At the heart of Japanese acupuncture lies a deep reverence for the body's innate ability to heal itself. Unlike its Chinese counterpart, which often targets specific points along meridians to address ailments, Japanese acupuncture takes a more subtle and nuanced approach. Practitioners place a strong emphasis on palpation, using touch to detect subtle imbalances in the body's energy flow. You’ll often wonder why I’m palpating your neck and abdomen and using other points away from the area of pain. The specific form of Japanese acupuncture I do comes from the blind school in Japan which is why our hands and fingers are often our detectors to solve issues hidden below.

Exploring the Art of Hara Diagnosis

Central to Japanese acupuncture is the concept of Hara diagnosis, a diagnostic method that involves assessing the abdomen to gain insights into a patient's health. In Japanese culture, the Hara, or abdomen, is considered the body's center of gravity and the seat of one's physical and spiritual well-being - our Core!

During a Hara diagnosis session, the practitioner gently palpates various areas of the abdomen, paying close attention to the quality of tissue, the presence of tenderness or tension, and any other abnormalities. Through this process, they can identify imbalances in the body's energy and organ systems, which may manifest as physical or emotional symptoms.

The Use of Thinner and Shallower Needling Style

One of the distinguishing features of Japanese acupuncture is its use of thinner needles and shallower insertion depths, making it a gentler and less invasive form of treatment. This approach is well-suited for individuals who may be apprehensive about acupuncture or have a low tolerance for pain.

Moxibustion

Furthermore, Japanese acupuncture techniques often involve the use of moxibustion, a practice in which dried mugwort is burned near specific acupuncture points to stimulate healing. Moxibustion is believed to enhance the flow of Qi, or vital energy, throughout the body, promoting overall health and vitality.

The Integration of Tradition and Modern Science

While rooted in ancient wisdom, Japanese acupuncture and Hara diagnosis purtain to modern ailments.  My teacher Kiiko Matsumoto will often link modern diseases to chapters in the Ling Shu  and Su Wen - ancient medical texts from 1st Century BCE.

Furthermore, Japanese acupuncture and Hara diagnosis are increasingly gaining recognition within the broader medical community for their effectiveness in treating a wide range of conditions, from chronic pain and digestive disorders to anxiety and depression. As interest in holistic and integrative medicine continues to grow, more people are turning to these time-honored practices in search of natural, non-invasive solutions to their health concerns.

Embracing a Path to Wellness

In a world marked by stress, pollution, and the constant barrage of modern life, Japanese acupuncture and Hara diagnosis offer a beacon of hope for those seeking a deeper connection to their health and vitality. By honoring the body's innate wisdom and addressing imbalances at their root, these ancient healing arts empower individuals to take an active role in their well-being and embrace a path to wellness that is as profound as it is transformative. As always, seek a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) with experience in this style of practice. 

Exploring Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs: A Holistic Approach to Autoimmune Issues

Autoimmune issues seem to be on the rise. I’m seeing so much of this more than ever in the office. Autoimmune diseases encompass a broad spectrum of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis, among others. Despite their diverse manifestations, these conditions share a common feature: an overactive immune response that mistakenly targets healthy tissues. This dysregulation often leads to chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and a range of debilitating symptoms. I’ve seen a gamut of these issues in my office. Some easier to treat with acupuncture and others needing herbs. Ideally, both in conjunction work best.

Autoimmune disease can affect various organs and systems, leading to chronic inflammation, pain, and discomfort. While conventional medicine offers treatments aimed at managing symptoms and suppressing immune responses,  alternative approaches that address the root causes and promote overall well-being is being sought.  In recent years, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine have gained attention for their potential in managing autoimmune issues by restoring balance within the body's natural systems.

The Role of Acupuncture

For individuals with autoimmune issues, acupuncture offers several potential benefits:

1. Pain Management:

Acupuncture is renowned for its analgesic effects, making it a valuable tool for managing chronic pain commonly associated with autoimmune conditions.

2. Immune Modulation:

Some research suggests that acupuncture may help regulate immune function by modulating inflammatory pathways and promoting a balanced immune response.

3. Stress Reduction:

Stress is known to exacerbate autoimmune symptoms. Acupuncture sessions can induce relaxation and reduce stress levels, which may positively influence the immune system, thereby decreasing the inflammatory response.

Exploring Chinese Herbal Medicine

In conjunction with acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine plays a crucial role in addressing autoimmune issues holistically. Chinese herbs are selected based on their properties and their ability to restore balance within the body. These herbs are often prescribed in complex formulas tailored to each individual's unique constitution and symptom profile.

Key ways in which Chinese herbal medicine can benefit individuals with autoimmune issues include:

1. Anti-inflammatory Effects:

Many Chinese herbs possess potent anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as pain and swelling.

2. Immune Regulation:

Certain herbs have immunomodulatory effects, helping to regulate the overactive immune response characteristic of autoimmune diseases.

3. Organ Support:

Chinese herbal formulas may target specific organs affected by autoimmune conditions, such as the joints in rheumatoid arthritis or the intestines in Crohn's disease, promoting healing and functionality.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine offer a holistic approach to managing autoimmune issues, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying imbalances within the body. Many of our patients  have experienced significant relief and improved quality of life through the integration of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine into their healthcare routines. As with any medical intervention, it is essential to consult qualified practitioners and work in collaboration with healthcare providers to develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs.

Please reach out to schedule your next acupuncture session with Laura or herbal consult with Dr. Alex.

Unlocking Relief: Healing Tennis Elbow with Acupuncture

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Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common ailment that plagues many athletes, office workers, and individuals engaged in repetitive arm movements. Characterized by pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow, this condition can be debilitating, hindering daily activities and impacting performance. While conventional treatments like rest, ice therapy, and physical therapy are often recommended, many of my patients find quick relief in acupuncture.  

Despite its name, tennis elbow doesn't solely affect tennis players; it can arise from any activity that involves repetitive gripping, twisting motions of the forearm, or overuse of the muscles and tendons in the arm. This includes activities such as typing, gardening, painting, golfing and, yes, playing tennis. The repetitive stress placed on the tendons leads to microtears, inflammation, and pain, particularly where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow.

There are a few ways in which acupuncture works for this, making it a dynamic therapy for tennis elbow sufferers.  

Beneficial Points of Acupuncture for Tennis Elbow:

1. Modulating Pain perception: 

Acupuncture is believed to modulate pain perception, reduce inflammation, and promote the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to the affected area, practitioners aim to restore balance and alleviate pain.

2. Localized Pain Relief:

Acupuncture targets specific points near the elbow where the pain and inflammation are most acute. By stimulating these points, acupuncture can directly alleviate pain, swelling, and tenderness, providing immediate relief to the affected area.

3. Muscle Relaxation:

Tennis elbow often involves tightness and tension in the muscles of the forearm and upper arm. Acupuncture can promote muscle relaxation by triggering the release of neurotransmitters that inhibit muscle contractions, allowing the muscles to unwind and reducing strain on the tendons.

4. Improved Blood Circulation:

Acupuncture encourages better blood flow to the injured tissues, facilitating the delivery of oxygen, nutrients, and healing factors essential for tissue repair. Enhanced circulation also helps remove metabolic waste products and inflammatory substances, promoting a faster recovery process.

5. Stress Reduction:

Chronic pain from tennis elbow can take a toll on mental and emotional well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Acupuncture has been shown to have calming effects on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. By addressing the mind-body connection, acupuncture can help individuals cope better with the challenges of managing their condition.

6. Enhanced Range of Motion:

In addition to relieving pain, acupuncture can improve joint mobility and flexibility, allowing individuals with tennis elbow to regain full range of motion in the affected arm. By targeting both the muscles, tendons and even bone with acupuncture and electric stimulation, function is restored allowing movement and flexibility again.

7. Long-Term Relief:

While some treatments may provide temporary symptom relief, acupuncture offers the potential for long-lasting results by addressing the underlying imbalances contributing to tennis elbow. By promoting the body's innate healing abilities and restoring balance to the energetic meridians, acupuncture can help prevent recurrence and promote overall musculoskeletal health.

8. Minimal Side Effects:

Compared to conventional treatments like pain medications or corticosteroid injections, acupuncture is generally well-tolerated and associated with minimal side effects. The risk of adverse reactions is low, making it a safe and suitable option for individuals seeking natural alternatives or those who may have concerns about the potential risks of pharmacological interventions.

Numerous studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating tennis elbow, with promising results. A systematic review published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy concluded that acupuncture provided significant pain relief and improved function in individuals with chronic lateral epicondylitis. Another study published in the Clinical Journal of Pain found that acupuncture was more effective than corticosteroid injections in reducing pain and improving grip strength in patients with tennis elbow. These findings highlight the potential of acupuncture as a safe and viable treatment option for managing this debilitating condition.

So book your session before tennis season begins so you can play, be restored and look forward to playing!  As always, seek a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) who specializes in orthopedics and electro-acupuncture for this. 

Unlocking Nature's Pharmacy: The Potent Power of Chinese Herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine

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In the vast array of traditional healing practices, few are as revered and time-tested as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Central to TCM's holistic approach to health and wellness are Chinese herbs, which have been utilized for thousands of years to restore balance, promote vitality, and address a myriad of ailments. I’m so excited to have an expert join my practice - Alex Sa Salva Doctor of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Alex is also a nurse so he understands the importance of integrative medicine and has an understanding of how herbs can work with or against western medicine. 

The Wisdom of Centuries:

Ancient Roots of Chinese Herbalism

In TCM, each herb is classified according to its energetic properties (hot, cold, warm, cool) and its affinity to certain organs or meridians within the body. Through careful diagnosis (taking the pulse and looking at the tongue for example) and prescription, TCM practitioners tailor herbal formulas to address the specific imbalances unique to each individual.

Harnessing Nature's Bounty:

The Diversity of Chinese Herbs

One of the most remarkable aspects of Chinese herbalism is the staggering diversity of herbs utilized. From familiar botanicals like ginger and ginseng to exotic treasures like reishi mushroom and astragalus root, the Chinese materia medica boasts thousands of medicinal substances, each with its own unique properties and therapeutic effects.

Many Chinese herbs are prized not only for their ability to treat specific ailments but also for their capacity to tonify and strengthen the body's innate healing abilities. For example, adaptogenic herbs like rhodiola and schisandra help the body adapt to stress and promote resilience, while qi-tonifying herbs like ginseng and astragalus bolster energy and vitality.

A Treasure Trove of Healing:

The Therapeutic Potential of Chinese Herbs

The therapeutic potential of Chinese herbs is vast and multifaceted, encompassing a wide range of health conditions and imbalances. From chronic ailments like arthritis and digestive disorders to acute conditions like colds and flu, TCM offers a holistic approach to healing that addresses the root cause of illness, rather than merely masking symptoms. The other beauty of Chinese Herbs is they can target very specific areas of the body to address highly specific ailments as well as a person’s constitution.

By restoring balance and harmony to the body's underlying energetic systems, TCM promotes long-term health and vitality, rather than simply alleviating immediate discomfort.

Modern Science Meets Ancient Wisdom:

The Evidence Behind Chinese Herbal Medicine

Studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulating properties of many Chinese herbs, validating their traditional use in treating a wide range of conditions.

Furthermore, advancements in technology have enabled researchers to identify the active constituents within Chinese herbs and elucidate their pharmacological actions. This has led to the development of standardized herbal extracts and pharmaceutical formulations, making Chinese herbal medicine more accessible and reproducible than ever before.

The Future of Healing:

Integrating Chinese Herbal Medicine into Modern Healthcare

TCM offers a powerful complement to conventional Western medicine, addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to disease and promoting wellness on all levels as Alex will tell you.

In an era marked by escalating rates of chronic illness, antibiotic resistance, and environmental degradation, the wisdom of Chinese herbal medicine offers a beacon of hope and healing. By harnessing the potent power of nature's pharmacy, we can unlock new pathways to health and vitality, embracing a holistic vision of wellness that honors the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.

Welcome Spring! What This Seasonal Change Means For Your Body

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As the world awakens from the slumber of winter, spring emerges with its promise of renewal and rejuvenation. It's a time of transition, marked by blooming flowers, longer days, and a sense of vitality in the air. Amidst this transformation, acupuncture stands as a powerful ally, offering a myriad of benefits to help individuals align with the energy of the season and optimize their well-being. This time of year can have its challenges which is why getting acupuncture is so important now.

Harmonizing with the Seasonal Shift:

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), each season is associated with specific elemental energies and organ systems. Spring corresponds to the Wood element and the Liver and Gallbladder meridians. According to TCM theory, imbalance in these meridians can manifest as symptoms like irritability, stiffness, allergies, and headaches, which are common during the spring.  Acupuncture can ease all these symptoms, making this transition a wonderful time of year.

Boosting Immunity:

I’m already seeing patients with spring allergies, even though it’s a little early for them. Springtime brings a surge of pollen and other allergens, triggering seasonal allergies for many individuals. Acupuncture has been shown to modulate the immune system, reducing the severity of allergic reactions and alleviating symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. By strengthening the body's defenses and promoting balance, acupuncture can help you breeze through allergy season with greater ease.

Easing Seasonal Aches and Pains:

I liken the body much like a crocus emerging through the frozen soil. It struggles a little, stiff at first until movement is established and our tendons and ligaments (associated with Liver in Chinese medicine) are fully oiled machines. As outdoor activities increase, it's common to experience aches and pains associated with increased physical exertion. Whether it's gardening, hiking, or sports, these activities can strain muscles and joints. Acupuncture offers effective pain relief by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and promoting circulation to injured tissues. It's a gentle yet powerful way to soothe sore muscles and support your active lifestyle.

Balancing Emotions:

The transition from the introspective energy of winter to the outward expansion of spring can sometimes stir up feelings of restlessness or irritability. Acupuncture helps regulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) and rebalance the emotions, promoting a sense of calm and emotional well-being. By addressing underlying imbalances in the Liver meridian, acupuncture can alleviate feelings of frustration, anger, or impatience, allowing you to embrace the season with a peaceful mind and an open heart. Most of my patients experience a deep sense of calm after their acupuncture sessions.

As nature bursts forth in a symphony of color and life, let acupuncture be your guide in harnessing the transformative power of spring. Whether you seek relief from allergies, pain, or emotional imbalances, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to health and well-being that aligns with the rhythm of the season. Embrace the renewal of spring with open arms and a rejuvenated spirit, knowing that acupuncture is there to support you on your journey to optimal health and vitality.

As always seek a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) to ensure the best treatments.

Treatment for DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis: The Power of Acupuncture and Electric Stimulation - a Brookfield Patient’s Experience

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DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis, a condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, can be debilitating, causing pain and limiting daily activities. While traditional treatments like rest, splinting, and medication are commonly prescribed, an alternative approach gaining traction is the use of acupuncture combined with electric stimulation. 

DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis occurs when the tendons around the base of the thumb become irritated or constricted, leading to pain and swelling. Activities that require repetitive thumb and wrist movements, such as typing, gaming, texting or even lifting infants, often exacerbate the condition. Without proper treatment, it can significantly impact one's quality of life eventually causing weakness in the thumb muscles which we use more than we think!

Traditional treatments for DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis focus on reducing inflammation and providing support to the affected area through rest, splinting, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, these methods may not always offer satisfactory relief, which have led my patient’s to seek acupuncture.

Acupuncture, combined with electric stimulation, enhances the effect of this particular treatment especially.  Electric stimulation amplifies the effects of acupuncture by delivering a gentle electrical current through the needles. This stimulates nerves, muscles, and tissues, promoting circulation, reducing inflammation, and triggering the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. Additionally, electric stimulation can help modulate pain signals sent to the brain, providing relief from discomfort associated with DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis.

Benefits of Acupuncture and Electric Stimulation for DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis:

1. Pain Relief

Acupuncture and electric stimulation can significantly reduce pain associated with DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis, allowing individuals to perform daily tasks with greater ease.

2. Improved Mobility

By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, this combined therapy can enhance wrist and thumb mobility, restoring functionality and strength.

3. Non-Invasive

Unlike surgical interventions, acupuncture and electric stimulation are non-invasive and carry minimal risk of side effects, making them suitable for individuals seeking alternative treatment options.

One of my patients who is a plumber, has this in both thumbs, left being worse and it’s debilitating, causing weakness in his grip and strength. After 2 sessions his pain level went way down and after 4 sessions he regained strength in both thumbs. This is where acupuncture works best with a set up of points with electric stimulation. 

If you or anyone you know is suffering, please pass on this article! As always, make sure to see a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) to ensure the best quality and individualized treatment.

Treating Achilles Tendonitis with Acupuncture

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Achilles tendonitis can be an incredibly painful and debilitating condition, affecting individuals of all ages and activity levels. Achilles tendonitis is characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often resulting from overuse, improper footwear, or sudden increases in physical activity (and believe it or not from Cipro related antibiotics!)  Many of my patients are turning to acupuncture for relief. 

Western medicine suggests that acupuncture  stimulates the nervous system, promoting the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, such as endorphins. In Chinese Medicine, we go beyond that and figure out why someone’s constitution may lead to very tight tendons.

Acupuncture aims to address both the underlying inflammation and the associated pain. By targeting specific acupuncture points along the affected meridians, we seek to reduce inflammation, promote tissue healing, and alleviate discomfort.

1. Pain Relief:

Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to pain perception and the affected meridians, acupuncture helps dull pain signals associated with Achilles tendonitis. This natural analgesic effect provides much-needed relief to individuals experiencing discomfort.

2. Inflammation Reduction:

Inflammation is a hallmark of Achilles tendonitis. Acupuncture can help modulate the body's inflammatory response by promoting the release of anti-inflammatory substances. By targeting acupuncture points associated with immune regulation and tissue healing, acupuncture assists in reducing inflammation along the Achilles tendon, facilitating the healing process.

3. Improved Blood Circulation:

Adequate blood circulation is crucial for tissue repair and regeneration. Acupuncture enhances blood flow to the affected area by dilating blood vessels and promoting micro-circulation. This increased blood supply delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the injured Achilles tendon, accelerating healing and reducing recovery time.

4. Muscle Relaxation:

Tension and tightness in surrounding the gastrocnemius, soleus and posterior tibialis muscles often exacerbate Achilles tendonitis symptoms. I will often release these muscles with trigger point (dry needling) or add electric stimulation to the points.  This helps ease the tightness in those muscles, especially the Soleus which connects to the achilles heel.

A 2018 study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese herbal medicine effectively reduced pain and improved function in patients with Achilles tendonitis. Another study in the European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine demonstrated that acupuncture provided significant pain relief and improved mobility in individuals with chronic Achilles tendonitis.

During your session, I will conduct a thorough evaluation of your condition and medical history. 

Acupuncture can provide pain relief and promote healing, it should not replace other essential components of treatment, such as rest, proper footwear and possibly PT.  A comprehensive approach yields the best results for managing Achilles tendonitis effectively.

As always, seek a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) for the best acupuncture treatments. 

Treating Sciatica with Acupuncture

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Sciatica, characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, can be an excruciating condition that significantly affects one's waking and sleeping life.  While conventional treatments like pain medications and physical therapy are often prescribed, many individuals may add acupuncture to alleviate their symptoms. 

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down through the hips and buttocks and branches out into each leg, becomes compressed or irritated. This compression can result from various factors, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or even muscle spasms. The hallmark symptom of sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down the back of the leg, sometimes the calf and foot, often accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness. In some cases, it can affect the side of the leg and even the front and move into different areas of the foot and toes.

From a Western perspective, acupuncture is believed to modulate pain perception, promote relaxation, and trigger the release of neurotransmitters such as endorphins and serotonin. 

How Acupuncture Addresses Sciatica:

1. Pain and Stress Relief

Acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. By targeting specific acupuncture points associated with pain modulation, acupuncture helps to alleviate the discomfort associated with sciatica.

2. Reduced Inflammation

Studies have shown that acupuncture may have anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. By reducing inflammation around the compressed sciatic nerve, acupuncture can help to alleviate pain and promote healing.

3. Muscle Relaxation

Sciatica often involves muscle tension and spasms, which can exacerbate pain and discomfort. Acupuncture, especially techniques such as trigger point (dry needling) or acupuncture with electric stim targets specific points associated with muscle relaxation, helping to alleviate tension, improve blood flow and improve flexibility in the affected area.

4. Improved Nerve Function

Acupuncture may help to improve nerve conduction and reduce nerve sensitivity, which can contribute to the alleviation of sciatic pain and associated symptoms like tingling and numbness.

Several studies have investigated the efficacy of acupuncture in managing sciatica, with promising results. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Pain Research concluded that acupuncture provided significant pain relief and improved functional outcomes in individuals with sciatica. Additionally, research published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that acupuncture combined with conventional treatments yielded better results than conventional treatments alone.

During your acupuncture session for sciatica, I will conduct a thorough orthopedic assessment of your symptoms and medical history. This determines which points to do based on your individual needs. Remember, each person’s sciatica will present differently, or have a different cause. Like other acupuncture treatments, we aim to target the root of the problem which is different for everyone. Sessions typically last between 45 to 60 minutes, and the frequency and duration of treatment will vary depending on the severity of your symptoms and your body's response to acupuncture.

Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to managing sciatica, addressing both the physical symptoms and underlying imbalances within the body.  If you're considering acupuncture as a treatment option for sciatica, be sure to consult with a License Acupuncturist (L.Ac.)  to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.