Tag Archive for: acupuncture

Acupuncture for post-stroke depression

Did you know that depression and anxiety are common among stroke survivors, affecting around one-third of them.

Acupuncture has been extensively studied as a means of aiding stroke recovery. And now specific research has also shown its potential in treating post-stroke depression. Chinese scientists have conducted a comprehensive analysis of various acupuncture studies to determine its efficacy in this regard. Their findings show that acupuncture is as effective as antidepressant medication, with fewer side effects and adverse reactions.

In China it is common to apply acupuncture in the hospitals for post-stroke recovery. And many post-stroke facilities have a team of acupuncturists on board. However, in New Zealand, there may be some practical challenges in applying this treatment. For example, in the early stages of the disease, many post-stroke patients may find it difficult to travel to see an acupuncturist. But for those who are lucky enough to afford an acupuncturist to travel to their hospital for post-stroke rehab, it’s important to talk to your acupuncturist about your mental health. That way, they can design a treatment plan that takes your needs into account!

Hypothyroidism – how acupuncture can help

Hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold.

Acupuncture is a natural treatment in traditional Chinese medicine that involves stimulating specific biologically active points close to nerves and large blood vessels to achieve the therapeutic effect. While scientific evidence is still limited, acupuncture has been suggested to help improve hypothyroidism.

How acupuncture helps hypothyroidism? A group of scientists from China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Beijing researched neuroendocrine system of rats with hypothyroidism to understand the effects of acupuncture.

Their findings were that acupuncture regulates serum levels of T3 and testosterone, Beta endorphins in the hypothalamus and plasma nucleotides. This was noted as the possible mechanism of action of acupuncture for hypothyroidism in their study published in the journal of Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion (1999-01).

Acupuncture and Chinese herbs can be also helpful to reduce the symptoms of hypothyroidism. I would not recommend stopping your medication after you start acupuncture treatment without discussing it with your prescribing doctor first.

TMJ Acupuncture: A Path to Relief

Experiencing TMJ disorder (TMD or TMJD) can turn even the joy of biting into your favorite chocolate bar into a painful ordeal. TMJ disorder is a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to the skull. This joint’s dysfunction can lead to a range of symptoms, impacting one’s quality of life. Symptoms may include recurring headaches or migraines, tooth pain, and jaw discomfort to name a few.

Common treatments include occlusal splints, physical therapy, and medication with a various degree of success. But there’s an alternative on the horizon. A systematic review by Cho and Whang, published in the Journal of Orofacial Pain, shines a light on acupuncture. This ancient Chinese treatment shows promise in offering relief for TMD.

Their review published in Journal of Orofacial Pain encompassed 19 randomised controlled trials. The results were compelling. Acupuncture outperformed physical therapy and was more effective than both indomethacin plus vitamin B1 therapy and a wait-list control. Importantly, it was deemed safe, with no serious adverse events reported.

Acupuncture was compared against placebo in three studies. Again, the findings were strikingly persuasive. The therapeutic effects were notably beyond just a placebo effect.

Yet, the journey of understanding doesn’t end here. The review underscores the need for more comprehensive trials, with larger participant numbers and a focus on long-term results. This will deepen our understanding of acupuncture’s role in treating TMD, further integrating it into modern healthcare.

Acupuncture stands out as a natural, safe, and effective option for TMJ pain. In the realm of TMJ solutions, there’s a subtle but significant shift happening towards holistic treatments. Our acupuncture method, merging ancient wisdom with modern evidence, is at the forefront of this change.

If you or someone you love is struggling with the painful symptoms of TMJ disorder, the acupuncture we provide may offer the relief you’ve been seeking. This is our field of expertise – don’t miss out on our unique approach to TMJ relief. Meet our Auckland team and schedule a consultation with a qualified acupuncturist today. Take the first step towards a pain-free, balanced future. Your journey to wellness starts now.