If the spring brings on allergies, commonly known as hay fever, you’re certainly not alone. In fact, 58 million Americans suffer each year from allergic rhinitis.The response is typically brought on by the release of pollen into the air, which our immune system attacks like it would bacteria and viruses. The result? A runny nose, itchy throat, watery eyes, and general feelings of unpleasantness.

If over-the-counter antihistamines aren’t bringing enough relief, studies show acupuncture helps hay fever. Perhaps the best evidence of its effectiveness comes from a 2013 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. German researchers examined 422 people aged 16 to 45, all of whom tested positive for pollen allergies. The researchers divided the participants into three groups: one which received 12 acupuncture treatments, plus antihistamines; one that received 12 treatments of faux acupuncture (meaning the needles were placed randomly instead on proven acupuncture points), plus antihistamines; and one that received antihistamines only.

After two months of treatment, 56 percent of people in the second group reported improvement in their symptoms. However, 71 percent of those treated with real acupuncture as well as antihistamines reported improvement, as well as less use of medication compared to the other two groups.

“I have seen many patients who failed medication and allergy shots respond to acupuncture,” says Dr. Patrick LaRiccia, a doctor of Internal Medicine at the Penn-Presbyterian Medical Center in Philadelphia. “Often patients get some relief during the first visit while lying on the exam table with their acupuncture needles in place.”

Those with mild allergies may only need a few acupuncture treatments to feel substantial relief from their symptoms. However, those with chronic allergies may need to begin with two sessions a week for up to six weeks. “Patients can determine the effective of acupuncture treatment by tracking the number of sneezes per day and the number of itching episodes around their eyes,” Dr. LaRiccia explains. “After an initial series of treatments, patients can come in for further treatments as needed. Some come back once or twice a year for a booster, while others may come more often.”

If allergies stop you from fully enjoying the spring, consider ditching over-the-counter medication in favor of a more holistic approach. Schedule an appointment with a licensed acupuncturist who can design a treatment plan for your needs.

 

Frequently thought of as a condition that afflicts tennis players and golfers, tendonitis can affect people of all ages and activity levels all across the globe. The condition is caused by inflammation in the soft tissues that connect our muscles to our bones. This inflammation can result in pain, loss of motion, and, for many, the inability to enjoy activities they once loved. It may even interfere with everyday movements such as driving, typing, and climbing up stairs.

When these symptoms arise, the most common treatments prescribed are steroid injections and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs. For those who seek a more natural and holistic approach to treating chronic pain, acupuncture may offer much-needed relief.

In one study, published in the Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine, patients aged 18 to 70 suffering from chronic Achilles tendonitis were split into two groups: one treated with acupuncture and one asked to perform resistance exercises. While both groups reported a decrease in their pain, those who underwent acupuncture felt 85 percent more reduction immediately after treatment, and 113 percent more reduction later while at rest.

In another study conducted by Dr. Peter Dorsher, 100 percent of patients experienced pain relief following acupuncture, with “maximal relief” being achieved after an average of 3.9 sessions. What’s more, these patients reported significantly longer lasting results than those of medications and other traditional methods. More than eight months after treatment, 77 percent of patients were still experiencing complete resolution of their symptoms.

Acupuncture for tendonitis uses high-grade surgical steel needles to stimulate the pain points, as well as other acupressure points along the corresponding meridian. The stimulation of these points activates the immune system while also increasing blood flow — both of which help the body jumpstart itself into healing. Acupuncture may also prompt the body to release a surge of endorphins, which can act as immediate relievers of pain.

While individual plans vary, the treatment of tendonitis with acupuncture typically involves multiple sessions. These sessions may last as little as 20 minutes, but can provide months of ongoing relief. If you suffer from tendonitis or other chronic pain, schedule an appointment with a licensed acupuncturist in order to design a treatment plan specifically for your needs.

Originally developed over thousands of years ago, the Chinese treatment of cupping therapy has found its way into modern-day medicine. It’s an ancient practice in which small glass or plastic cups are placed on the skin. Suction is then generated using one of two methods: A small fire is created in the cup using a flammable substance such as rubbing alcohol or paper. As soon as the fire goes out, the cup is applied to the skin. As the air cools, it creates a vacuum, causing the skin and underlying muscle to be pulled into the cup. In more modern treatments, cups may have small rubber pumps, which allow the air to be drawn out without using fire.

The ultimate goal of cupping is to enhance circulation, relieve pain, fight fatigue, and release toxins from the body, among many other benefits. While cupping can be performed on its own, it’s frequently combined with acupuncture in a single treatment. A 2012 study published in the journal PLoS ONE found that cupping, when used in conjunction with other traditional Chinese treatments, was far better than anything else at curing those with skin conditions like shingles and acne. It also addressed issues caused by nerve damage, such as facial paralysis.

Over the course of a cupping treatment, cups are typically left on the body for 5 to 15 minutes. Massage oil may be applied in order to allow the cups to be pulled across the skin. During this time, the skin becomes red due to the congestion of blood flow. This discoloration may last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. There may also be some slight bruising, but this shouldn’t be painful. Once the marks have disappeared, the treatment can be repeated until the condition is resolved.

In recent years, even celebrities have been singing its praises. Stars like Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow have been vocal about their devotion to cupping thanks to its relaxation benefits. Chinese swimmer Wang Qun, tennis pro Andy Murray, and many of the players on the Mets have adopted the therapy as a way to relieve soreness and address injuries.

As with most traditional Chinese medicine, cupping treatments are unique to each individual and their current needs. It shouldn’t be used on people who bleed easily or have skin ulcers. While pregnant women can safely undergo cupping, it needs to be performed with extreme caution and never on the abs or the lower back. If you think you may benefit from this therapy, meet with a qualified acupuncturist to create a plan designed specifically for you. Schedule an appointment today!