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A Natural Way to Deal with Irregular Menstruation

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A Natural Way to Deal with Irregular Menstruation

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, ullamcorper definitiones qui an, dicat ubique recteque an pro. Sea et iuvaret democritum....

A Natural Way to Deal with Irregular Menstruation

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, ullamcorper definitiones qui an, dicat ubique recteque an pro. Sea et iuvaret democritum....

Acupuncture for Orthopedics: Common Orthopedic Issues Among the Elderly and How Acupuncture Can Help

Posted on July 24, 2018July 13, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

Aging isn’t a walk in the park, but you can help yourself age more gracefully with acupuncture for orthopedics. When our golden years hit, our bodies just won’t work as well as they used to. Our hearing and eyesight will worsen, our hair will turn gray, and our skin will wrinkle and sag. Aging can also be quite hard on our bones, making it more difficult to move around and go about our business.

Luckily, however, acupuncture can help with orthopedic issues related to aging. While acupuncture will not be able to reverse the aging process, it can help make it so much easier.

Common orthopedic issues in aging

There are a number of orthopedic issues that may arise as we grow older. The elderly are more prone to medical conditions like osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, as well as issues like fractures and dislocations. In the case of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, acupuncture for orthopedics has been found to be an effective aid in managing and even possibly preventing the two diseases.

Osteoarthritis can hit you in the joints, while osteoporosis weakens your bones and makes them more susceptible to fractures. Both can be manageable, though once they develop, the process can no longer be reversed.

Osteoarthritis

As the most common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis is known to affect millions of people across the globe. It is common among the elderly, especially among women. Risk factors such as genetics, obesity, injuries in the joints, bone deformities, and having an occupation that puts stress on particular joints can all make you more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis.

You may have osteoarthritis is you have pain and stiffness in any joint. The joint may also feel tender and inflexible, giving off a grating feeling when try to flex or bend the joint.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease, which means it can get worse as time passes. Unmanaged osteoarthritis can cause pain and stiffness in the joints, eventually preventing people with the disease from working or accomplishing many daily activities.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is quite different from osteoarthritis. Where osteoarthritis affects the joints, osteoporosis affects the bones themselves. Another difference is that osteoporosis doesn’t have telling symptoms; people with osteoporosis may only discover the disease when their bones experience a fracture.

This is a disease that causes bones to weaken and lose density, thus making them more susceptible to fractures and breaks. A doctor can take x-rays of your bones and measure their density to figure out if you do indeed have osteoporosis.

As in the case of osteoarthritis, women are more prone to developing osteoporosis. However, there are also other risk factors. Genetics, a history of fractures during the adult years, a history of rheumatoid arthritis, and a family history of osteoporosis are all risk factors. Things like smoking, high alcohol consumption, a low birth weight, a sedentary lifestyle, and a lack of calcium and vitamin D can all increase the risk of osteoporosis as well.

acupuncture for the elderly — In what ways can the elderly benefit from acupuncture? Photo by Lukas Budimaier/Unsplash.com

Acupuncture for orthopedics

For many people, acupuncture may not be at the top of the list when it comes to remedies for the symptoms of various illnesses. This may be because people don’t know much about acupuncture, or they haven’t heard about it much. They may also feel intimidated by the use of multiple needles, or maybe the procedure and the principles it’s based on are just too unfamiliar.

However, acupuncture isn’t difficult to understand, and it’s also generally painless. Acupuncture needles don’t prick the way that other needles do, since they’re very fine and aren’t meant to pierce through veins. At worst, you may have some bruising around the areas in which needles are inserted, but acupuncture is generally low-risk if you go to a licensed and skilled practitioner.

Acupuncture in a nutshell

Acupuncture is an integral component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which views health and healthcare differently from Western medicine. According to the principles of TCM, our physical emotional and mental health is governed by an energy source called qi (pronounced “chee”).

Qi should flow through the body along markers called meridians. However, when this flow is disrupted or gets bunched up around certain meridians, it can result in symptoms of ill health.

TCM practitioners use a variety of techniques to restore the normal flow of qi, and these techniques include acupuncture. Acupuncture entails the use of needles, which the practitioner inserts at acupuncture points relevant to the symptoms of the patient. These needles simulate the acupuncture points and induce qi to return to its healthy flow.

At the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, you can learn more about how acupuncture works from Tram Pham, the clinic’s owner and resident Licensed Acupuncturist. Tram has a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine from Yo San University in Los Angeles. She also has years of experience patients using the principles of TCM.

How acupuncture can help

Scientific research has shown that acupuncture for orthopedics can be quite effective, and can help manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Studies have shown that acupuncture can help reduce pain in the joints, thus helping patients become more mobile. Acupuncture can also have advantages over nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) and other pain medications. Acupuncture is all-natural and low-risk, while NSAIDS and other types of medications can have a plethora of side effects.

In the case of osteoporosis, studies have also found that acupuncture and herbal medicine can make drug therapy for pain relief more effective. A combination of calcium carbonate, vitamin D, and Calcitonin-Salmon was 80% effective in managing pain. However, a combination of electroacupuncture, herbal medicine, vitamin D, and Calcitonin-Salmon was 92.5% effective.

Acupuncture for orthopedics can be an alternative treatment, but it can also work quite well with Western medicine. Make sure to consult with your physician first before you book an appointment for an acupuncture session.

Acupuncture at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic

The Santa Barbara Herb Clinic has been providing the city of Santa Barbara with all-natural and holistic healthcare since 1986. With us, you can be sure that acupuncture for orthopedics is safe and effective.

You can book an appointment with us by calling us at 805-563-0222 or emailing us at info@santabarbaraherbclinic.com. You can also have a consultation with Tram over the phone or via video call. The clinic is open from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5:30pm. Contact us now and start your path to natural and low-risk pain management.

References

https://www.se-ortho.com/common-orthopedic-conditions-elderly/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925

https://www.medicinenet.com/osteoporosis/article.htm

https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/treatments/natural/other-therapies/mind-body-pain-relief/oa-acupuncture.php

http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1556-acupuncture-and-herbs-relieve-osteoporosis-ups-bone-density

Pediatric Acupuncture: Dealing with Digestive Issues and Abdominal Pain

Posted on July 17, 2018July 13, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

Pediatric acupuncture isn’t as well-known or widely explored as acupuncture for adults. However, acupuncture for children can be extremely helpful, especially in cases where children are unable to take necessary medications for any reason.

You may have some misgivings about subjecting your children to acupuncture. However, it may just be effective in addressing your child’s needs.

Common digestive health problems in children

There are actually a lot of things that can go wrong with a child’s digestive health. Babies can get colicky, and older children can have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), celiac disease, lactose intolerance, food allergies, and a host of other digestive issues. These issues can manifest in a variety of symptoms, such as stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and more.

Stomach problems may go away after a day or so, but some can persist and happen again sometime down the line. However, stomach problems can also affect your child’s attendance at school, as well as his or her participation in extracurricular and social activities. Acupuncture can be an effective complement to medications and remedies, and it can also be an alternative if your child can’t take these medications and remedies for one reason or another.

However, it’s important to remember that acupuncture isn’t a cure. It’s also best if you consult with your child’s pediatrician first to ensure that your child will benefit fully from pediatric acupuncture.

Stomach pain

Stomach pain is one of the more common complaints that children make. This usually isn’t a condition in itself, but rather a symptom of other issues. The child may be suffering from gas, acid reflux, food allergies, or mono. He or she may have also eaten something that he should not have.

Children’s digestive systems can be quite sensitive, so stomach pain may happen often. Certain triggers such as fear and anxiety can also lead to stomach pain. Still, there are times that stomach pain may not be serious. However. it can also be a sign that your child needs medical attention.

Consulting with your child’s pediatrician is usually your best bet. You can also talk to the pediatrician about how pediatric acupuncture can help your child manage his or her stomach pain.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another digestive issue that children can be prone to. There’s also the added danger of dehydration due to diarrhea, and complications may arise if diarrhea isn’t dealt with properly. Things such as bacterial infections, antibiotics, food poisoning, food allergies, and celiac disease can all result in diarrhea.

While diarrhea should go away on its own in 24 hours or so, parents should monitor it especially when it comes to very young children. It’s best to consult with a pediatrician when your child begins having diarrhea to learn more about what you should watch out for.

Constipation

Just as diarrhea can be a dangerous illness for a child, so can constipation. If your child is having difficulty passing stool, or he has been passing stool just three days or fewer in a week, you may have something to be worried. Your child may also experience a stomach ache, pain during bowel movement, or he may also have blood on his stool.

Your child’s constipation may have been caused by one of these causes. He may have fear or anxiety over going to the toilet, his routine may have changed, or he may be taking medications that can cause constipation. There are more possible causes, and taking your child to the pediatrician may be helpful in figuring out what’s causing his problems.

Sometimes, constipation can lead to more digestive problems, or can be a symptom of an underlying issue. Speaking to your child’s pediatrician will let you know if you have something to be worried about.

Pediatric acupuncture and digestive health

Digestive issues aren’t always clear-cut and straightforward, especially in children. A child can be perfectly fine when you put him to bed at night, and he can be curled up and crying because of abdominal pain in the morning. Finding the exact cause of the problem may take time, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t other ways to help children manage the symptoms of digestive issues.

At the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, you may be able to find the help you’ve been looking for. Tram Pham, our owner and Licensed Acupuncturist, can help your child get past their digestive issues. Tram has a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine, and she also has years of experience in providing patients with holistic healthcare based on age-old modalities.

Acupuncture in a nutshell

According to traditional Chinese medication (TCM), we have an energy force called qi (pronounced “chee”) flowing through our body along markers called meridians. Qi influences our health and well-being. When qi gets out of balance or is concentrated around a certain meridian, this can result in illness.

In acupuncture, the insertion of fine needles into acupuncture points can stimulate the qi to return to its usual flow.

How acupuncture can help

Pediatric acupuncture can help children deal with pain caused by factors ranging from headaches to fibromyalgia, including pain in the abdomen. Some children may be unable to take pain medication for certain reasons, but acupuncture is an all-natural and low-risk remedy.

Research has shown that acupuncture can help resolve digestive problems such as IBS. It can also help treat abdominal pain, and other signs of a distressed digestive system. There have also been studies that have found that acupuncture can help stimulate the production of endorphins. Other than that, it can normalize the body’s pain matrix as well.

According to TCM, various illnesses are caused by an imbalance in the body’s energy. Acupuncture can help these issues by addressing the roots of the symptoms, such as disturbances in the spleen and stomach.

Is acupuncture safe?

If you’re not familiar with acupuncture, it may seem intimidating at first. It may seem even more intimidating to children, some of whom may also have a fear of needles. However, acupuncture needles are thinner than needles used in hospitals and clinics, and they don’t cause pain when inserted. However, patients are likely to experience a feeling of heaviness or some tingling in the needle insertion sites.

It’s also important that you stick to licensed and experienced acupuncturists operating in legitimate clinics. Acupuncture has little side effects, and side effects are usually mild. However, serious side effects such as infections may occur due to the use of unsterilized needles. Fortunately, licensed and skilled acupuncturists make sure that they use needles only once and on only one person.

Acupuncture at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic

Safety is a top priority at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic. Here, you can be sure that your child will be in good hands. The clinic has been in the business of providing holistic healthcare since 1986, and it is still going strong to this day. Tram, our owner and Licensed Acupuncturist, is continuing the clinic’s tradition of providing age-old treatments to people in the Santa Barbara and Goleta area.

Book an appointment or schedule a consultation about pediatric acupuncture by calling us at 805-563-0222 or emailing us at info@santabarbaraherbclinic.com. Tram also conducts consultations over the phone or via video call, which comes in handy if you’re not within driving distance of the clinic. Contact us today to begin your journey to all-natural healthcare!

References

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007504.htm

https://www.webmd.com/children/guide/diarrhea-treatment#1

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation-in-children/symptoms-causes/syc-20354242

http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=31380

http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1648-acupuncture-moves-stool-relieves-constipation

http://www.sacbee.com/news/local/health-and-medicine/article132021139.html

http://www.acupuncture.com/Conditions/childabpain.htm

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4928723/

http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1397-acupuncture-eases-pain-for-children-stanford-university

Acupuncture for Nausea and Vomiting: What You Need to Know

Posted on July 10, 2018July 10, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

Tummy troubles can usually be resolved in a number of familiar ways, but acupuncture for nausea and vomiting may be somewhat of a novelty. Nausea and vomiting aren’t usually ailments in themselves, and are commonly symptoms of another issue entirely. Your acupuncturist will diagnose and treat the pattern of disease behind nausea or vomiting by restoring balance in your qi.

Nausea and vomiting in a nutshell

Oftentimes, nausea and vomiting come hand in hand. However, this isn’t always the case. Nausea is a feeling of stomach unease that usually precedes vomiting. Vomiting, meanwhile, is the expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. Nausea doesn’t always lead to vomiting. The two are not diseases or ailments in themselves, but are likely symptoms of underlying issues. The cause may sometimes be immediately obvious, but there are also times when you may need to see a doctor to figure out what’s wrong.

Acupuncture for nausea and vomiting can be a viable treatment option. When you see your doctor for your symptoms, you can also discuss undergoing acupuncture with them.

Possible causes

There is a whole host of reasons why you’re vomiting or experiencing nausea. It may be due to things like motion sickness, emotional or mental stress, or an adverse reaction to certain odors. Medical issues such as morning sickness, extreme pain, a concussion, a heart attack, cancer or cancer treatments, a tumor, gastritis, an ulcer, bulimia, the stomach flu, meningitis, appendicitis, or gallbladder disease can also induce nausea and vomiting. Overeating, food poisoning, food allergies, the ingestion of toxins, or drinking too much alcohol can also be possible causes.

Vomiting is an inconvenience at best, but in certain situations, it’s largely harmless. However, there are also times when it can be indicative of another, perhaps still-unknown, problem. Dehydration can also become an issue, especially if you don’t take the necessary steps to keep yourself hydrated.

You should also make sure to call your doctor if you think that your nausea and vomiting may be due to pregnancy. If you’ve been having diarrhea as well as vomiting for over 24 hours, and you’ve been exhibiting signs of dehydration as well, you may need medical attention. You’ll definitely need to see a doctor if you’ve been vomiting up blood, you have an intense headache, your stomach is in extreme pain, or you have a rapid pulse or breathing.

Acupuncture for nausea and vomiting

Vomiting isn’t an easy thing to deal with, especially when it becomes disruptive. It can cause issues in your personal and professional life, and it can also make recovery from surgery more unpleasant than it already can be.

There are a number of treatments and remedies that can help you with nausea and vomiting, but these can also work well with acupuncture. Acupuncture can be an alternative treatment, but it can also be a complement that can fit in well with treatment regimens.

Of course, some may find acupuncture to be a little intimidating or confusing. The needles may also give some people pause. However, the needles used in acupuncture are finer than the needles used for giving shots, and they won’t be painful upon insertion.

What acupuncture is like

Acupuncture is a vital part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). According to the principles of TCM, a life force called qi (pronounced “chee”) flows through each individual along markers in the body called meridians. When qi flows normally, the individual has good physical, mental, and emotional health. However, when the flow of qi is disrupted or gets blocked around certain meridians, it can result in ill-health.

Thus, the restoration of the normal flow of qi is important. Acupuncture helps restore this flow with the use of fine needles. The needles are inserted into the acupuncture points that correspond to the individual’s symptoms. This results in the stimulation of those acupuncture points, which in turn results in the restoration of the proper flow of qi. Some symptoms may take more than one session to be fully treated.

Acupuncture for nausea and vomiting is generally low-risk and safe, but you have to make sure that you go to a skilled and licensed practitioner. Fortunately, the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic has just that. Our owner and Licensed Acupuncturist, Tram Pham, has a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine from Yo San University in Los Angeles. She also has years of experience in treating patients under the guidance of TCM’s ancient modalities and principles.

How acupuncture can help

TCM and acupuncture have garnered interest and attention from the scientific community over the years. Research has found that acupuncture in particular can be helpful in treating nausea and vomiting in pregnant women. It can also be helpful for people who are experiencing the post-operative effects of surgery.

Researchers have found that the insertion of just one needle into an acupuncture point called the Neiguan or P6 point can significantly reduce the chances of patients experiencing nausea and vomiting after surgery. There is also evidence that acupuncture may even help lessen the need for anti-vomiting drugs.

Acupuncture has also been found to be helpful in reducing nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness and pregnancy. However, whatever the reason for your nausea and vomiting is, it’s important to first consult with your physician before you book an appointment for acupuncture.

Acupuncture at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic

Acupuncture for nausea and vomiting is safe and effective at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic. The clinic was founded in 1986 by Dr. Jean Yu, flourished under the leadership of the late Dr. Han, and was passed to Tram in 2016. Since Tram took over the clinic, she has been continuing the tradition of providing Santa Barbara with all-natural and holistic healthcare.

Book an appointment with us by calling us at 805-563-0222 or emailing us at info@santabarbaraherbclinic.com. You can also have a consultation with Tram over the phone or via video call. Contact us today and begin your journey to balanced health!

References

https://www.medicinenet.com/nausea_and_vomiting/article.htm

https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-diseases-nausea-vomiting#1

https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/06/12/acupuncture-cures-postoperative-nausea-and-vomiting

https://journals.lww.com/ajnonline/Fulltext/2010/09000/Acupuncture_to_Prevent_Postoperative_Nausea_and.27.aspx

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090415170848.htm

Acupuncture for Joint Pain: Benefits, Information, and More

Posted on July 2, 2018July 6, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

Undergoing acupuncture for joint pain can be a good alternative for those who are for any reason unable or unwilling to take pain medication. However, acupuncture isn’t just an alternative. It also works very well as a complement to Western medicine, as long as you consult with your physician first before booking an appointment with the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic.

Our joints are particularly important part of our body. They allow for different types of movement, such as bending, walking, and kneeling. While joints are essential to efficient movement, they can also be where various types of pain can occur. Joint pain can impede movement and thus make even the simplest daily tasks more difficult. This means that finding ways to help treat joint pain is essential.

The nature of joint pain

Joint pain is actually quite common, and many of us experience it at least at one point in our lives. Usually, injury and arthritis are the causes of joint pain, though there are other possible causes as well. As we age, pain in the joints can become more and more common, especially for those who develop osteoarthritis.

Common causes

We put our joints through quite a lot. For one thing, we use them every day — basically every time that we move. When we walk, reach up to a shelf, type on our phones, grab our keys, we use our joints. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of things that can cause our joints pain, other than injury or arthritis.

Things like inflammation, the overuse or over-exertion of a joint, or cartilage damage behind the kneecaps can cause joint pain as well. Inflammation in particular can result from an injury that has healed, but has suddenly become painful again.

Injuries such as fractures or torn ligaments can cause bleeding in the joint, especially if the injury is to the knee. If the joint begins to swell, feel warm, and develops stiffness soon after the injury occurs, you may be experiencing something called haemarthrosis. It’s important to keep in mind that if one of your joints begin to swell too much, you have to see your doctor and get it checked out.

There are also certain viral infections that can lead to joint pain. Viral hepatitis and rubella are both infections that can cause joint pain as well as fever. While viral infections necessitate the use of medication, you can undergo acupuncture for joint pain itself.

Pain relief

When you’re experiencing pain in the joints, you can take pain relieving medication such as NSAIDS, which can also help reduce swelling. Rest is also vital, though it’s also important to have the appropriate amount of exercise. Stretching, massages, and even warm baths can be helpful to painful and swollen joints as well.

Remember that acupuncture can also be a viable option that can work well with other types of pain management techniques. As a bonus, acupuncture for joint pain also has other benefits aside from pain relief.

Acupuncture for joint pain

Acupuncture has been around for millennia, though it’s only recently that science has turned its lens to the centuries-old practice. There is still a lot more to explore about the scientific workings of acupuncture, though it has been practiced for a long time to help treat a variety of symptoms.

The human body has over 2,000 acupuncture points, all connected to the body’s life energy (called qi). The stimulation of these acupuncture points with the use of acupuncture needles can redirect the qi and help alleviate pain. Other than that, it can also help stimulate the production of endorphins, which can help relieve pain the natural way.

Acupuncture basics

Acupuncture entails the insertion of fine needles into your skin at the acupuncture points where your qi may be out of sync. After you speak to the acupuncturist about your symptoms, he or she will be able to identify the acupuncture points that need simulation.

At the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, you’ll be treated by our owner and Licensed Acupuncturist, Tram Pham. Tram has years of experience under her belt, as well as a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine from Yo San University. She’ll be able to evaluate your symptoms and come up with an effective plan for you.

The difference between traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine is that TCM bases treatments on the individuals themselves, not the particular ailment they have. When you make an appointment with us, you’ll be in good hands.

Precautions

Acupuncture is definitely worth a try, especially in cases such as pain relief. It’s basically something that can help you relieve pain without the need for medications that can be addictive and can have harmful side effects. Of course, like most other treatments, acupuncture has possible side effects as well. However, the most serious of acupuncture’s side effects are very rare. Other side effects, however, may include headaches, slight dizziness, fatigue, and “emotional release.” Usually, the side effects should only last for about two days.

At least, however, your reactions to acupuncture will likely be immediate, and will occur with your acupuncturist in the room with you. Thus, you will likely be taken care of right away, and the side effects will likely be dealt with right then and there.

Acupuncture at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic

In 2016, Tram took over the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, some time after the untimely and tragic death of Dr. Henry Han. Dr. Han bought the clinic in 1991 from its founder, Dr. Jean Yu, who opened the clinic in 1986. Tram is continuing the clinic’s 30-year tradition of providing Santa Barbara with acupuncture services and more. The can provide acupuncture for joint pain as well as for other issues.

Call us at 805-563-0222 or email us at info@santabarbaraherbclinic.com to make an appointment. You can come in any time on Mondays to Fridays, between 9am to 5:30pm. Proximity is also not a problem when it comes to consultations, since Tram can do them over the phone or over video calls. Make an appointment today and get on the road to all-natural holistic health.

References

https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/arthritis-acupuncture#2

https://www.acupuncture.org.uk/public-content/public-ask-an-expert/ask-an-expert-about-acupuncture/ask-an-expert-about-acupuncture-side-effects/3928-acupuncture-after-effects.html

https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/treatments/natural/other-therapies/mind-body-pain-relief/acupuncture-gets-respect.php

https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/07/06/acupuncture-relief-arthritis-pain

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003261.htm

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/joint-pain/

Acupuncture for Menstrual Cramps: Causes, Symptoms, and Acupuncture Benefits

Posted on July 2, 2018July 6, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

Acupuncture for menstrual cramps may be a new and effective way to help women with menstrual troubles. Unfortunately, a majority of women experience menstrual pain and discomfort. However, there aren’t many long-term treatments with low risk of side effects. However, acupuncture may be helpful in providing relief from menstrual pain and other related symptoms.

An overview of menstrual cramps

A whopping 9 out of 10 women experience pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, and other symptoms during menstruation. Many women have normalized experiencing dysmenorrhea and discomfort during their periods, basically treating it as something that is as much a fact of life as having periods. However, painful menstruation, period cramps, and other forms of discomfort don’t have to be something that you just have to power through.

You can always deal with monthly period cramps by taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and/or one of the various forms of birth control. However, you also have the option of undergoing acupuncture for menstrual cramps, which has been proven to be effective in helping ease the dysmenorrhea and other symptoms.

Symptoms

Menstrual cramps and pain can range from mild to severe, and usually occurs in the lower abdomen and lower back. It can last for two to four days, though if the pain lasts longer and becomes extreme, you should seek medical attention right away.

Pain in the lower abdomen and lower back isn’t the only symptom that you may experience during menstruation. Other symptoms such as constipation, loose bowels, bloating, dizziness, nausea, a general feeling of discomfort, and headaches are also common. Normally, these symptoms won’t lead to complications, but they can make things inconvenient and can disrupt your school, work, or personal life.

Causes

Menstrual pain is common largely because of the mechanism that enables menstruation to happen. During menstruation, the contraction of uterine muscles enables the expulsion of blood and excess uterine lining. When this happens, it involves a hormone-like substance called prostaglandins, which are associated with pain.

However, there are also other conditions that may cause dysmenorrhea. Endometriosis, uterine fibroids, cervical stenosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and adenomyosis can also lead to menstrual cramps.

Other than these conditions, there are risk factors that can make it more likely for you to experience dysmenorrhea. If you smoke, get stressed a lot, have a family history of dysmenorrhea, have a heavy period, or have an irregular menstrual cycle, you’re at a higher risk of menstrual cramps.

When to see your doctor

Menstrual cramps can be a normal thing for many women — a natural consequence of a natural process. However, when menstrual cramps become severe or extreme, they can be indicative of an underlying medical condition that will likely need further treatment and medical attention.

It’s normal for women who began having their periods at an age younger than 11 to experience dysmenorrhea. However, if you’re over the age of 25 and you only just started having menstrual cramps, you may need to see your doctor to see if there’s anything wrong. Also, if your cramps have begun to get progressively worse, you should undergo medical examination.

If your dysmenorrhea isn’t caused by an underlying symptom, it tends to lessen in severity as you age. It’s also likely to get better once you have given birth.

Acupuncture for menstrual cramps

While it may seem like NSAIDs and contraceptives are the only effective ways to deal with menstrual pain, there are actually other changes you can make to make your periods somewhat easier to endure. There are certain lifestyle changes you can make, like quitting smoking or eating healthier. However, acupuncture is also an effective way to make menstrual cramps a thing of the past.

The basics of acupuncture

Acupuncture is an important component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It works on the premise that each individual has a life or energy flow called qi (pronounced “chee”). When the flow of qi is disrupted, or is concentrated in certain areas of the body, it can result in various kinds of illnesses.

Qi flows through points in the body called meridians. To restore the natural flow of qi, acupuncturists insert fine needles into acupuncture points known to be related to the specific symptoms the patient is experiencing.

While having needles inserted into your skin can be intimidating, you actually have very little to fear from acupuncture. When side effects occur, most of them are due to careless or untrained acupuncturists.

At the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, you can rest assured that we take utmost care in treating our patients. We use only single-use, sterilized needles. Our owner and Licensed Acupuncturist, Tram Pham, has a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine from Yo San University and has years of experience in TCM. With us, you’ll be in good hands.

How acupuncture can help

Researchers have found that acupuncture for menstrual cramps can be effective at providing relief that can last for a period of 12 months. Multiple acupuncture sessions may be necessary, but this is something that you can discuss with your licensed acupuncturist. There is evidence that the more sessions you undergo, the more significant the improvements will be.

Thus, acupuncture can be a new form of treatment that can help women relieve menstrual pain. Researchers have also found that women have normalized menstrual pain perhaps too much. Women actually consider even severe or abnormal symptoms to be something they shouldn’t worry about. Even so, going to your doctor and to the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic for a consultation may be worth the trouble.

Acupuncture at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic

The Santa Barbara Herb Clinic has been providing the Santa Barbara and Goleta areas with holistic and all-natural health care since 1986. Our Licensed Acupuncturist, Tram, took over the clinic in 2016. While she has extensive experience in treating various kinds of ailments, she also specializes in women’s health. Thus, you can trust her to be skilled in providing you with acupuncture for menstrual cramps and other symptoms.

You can call us at 805-563-0222 or email us at info@santabarbaraherbclinic.com to make an appointment or schedule a consultation with Tram. Tram can also conduct consultations over the phone or via video call. Contact us now and begin your journey to holistic health.

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157333.php

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318532.php

http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1787-acupuncture-painful-menstruation-relief-finding

https://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/2017/07/19/acupuncture-could-help-with-period-pain-study-reveals_a_23036800/

https://www.medicinenet.com/acupuncture/article.htm

Acupuncture for Morning Sickness: What You Need to Know

Posted on July 2, 2018July 6, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

Acupuncture for morning sickness may be a little intimidating, especially if you’re not all that familiar with acupuncture or traditional Chinese medicine. However, acupuncture has a lot to offer, and it has been found to be generally safe to experience during pregnancy.

While morning sickness can be unpleasant, it’s rarely dangerous for the baby and the expectant mother. There’s even evidence to suggest that morning sickness may actually be an indicator of a healthy pregnancy. Even so, it’s probably something that pregnant women won’t mind doing away with. There are a number of remedies that can help ease the symptoms of morning sickness, and acupuncture may be quite helpful to you.

Morning sickness: What you need to know

Morning sickness seems to one of the more prominent features of pregnancy. In fact, up to 80% of pregnant women to experience morning sickness in the early stages of their pregnancy. Though it’s called “morning sickness,” the nausea and vomiting can actually hit at any time of the day.

Because morning sickness doesn’t pose much of a threat on the pregnant woman and her baby, treatment isn’t necessary in most cases. However, there are some remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of morning sickness, like consuming more food, drinks and ginger. You can also consider acupuncture for morning sickness, which researchers have found to be effective in helping lessen nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

Causes and risk factors

Scientists still don’t actually know much about what causes morning sickness, though they have some ideas. It’s possible that increased estrogen levels, increased progesterone levels, a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), or a heightened sensitivity to smells can all contribute to nausea.

Though morning sickness affects a majority of pregnant women, some women may be more at risk than others. If you’ve experienced nausea due to motion sickness, contraceptives, or certain smells before pregnancy, you’re more likely to experience nausea during pregnancy. Meanwhile, if you experienced morning sickness during your first pregnancy, you’re more likely to experience morning sickness in your subsequent pregnancies.

Nausea and vomiting are also more likely if you’re carrying multiples.

What you can do

There are number of things you can do to make yourself feel better or lessen the occurrences of morning sickness. Getting plenty of rest can be effective, since tiredness can make nausea worse. You can also try eating something, like crackers, in the morning about 20 minutes before you get up. Medication like B6 and doxylamine or Diclegis are also safe and effective against morning sickness.

Acupuncture is also a viable option. Just make sure to consult with your doctor first before booking an acupuncture appointment, and make sure to inform your acupuncturist that you’re pregnant.

When to call your doctor

Though morning sickness is generally harmless, there are some instances when it will need medical attention. Hyperemesis gravidarum, which affects about 1-2% of pregnant women, is a severe form of morning sickness that typically goes away by the fifth month of pregnancy. While hyperemesis gravidarum won’t cause harm to the baby, it can result in a low birth weight if it causes the mother to lose too much weight during pregnancy.

Acupuncture for morning sickness

Acupuncture during pregnancy has been found to be safe and effective against morning sickness and a number of other issues that may arise during pregnancy. It can help reduce the pain you may experience during labor, and it can also help reduce pelvic girdle pain.

Other than its effectiveness against these issues, acupuncture is also a safe alternative to medication. It’s possible that for certain reasons, you may be unable to take certain medications or remedies that can help you with morning sickness. Acupuncture is makes for a great alternative or complementary treatment.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is an important component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). According to TCM, we all have a life or energy force flowing through us, called qi (pronounced “chee”). When qi flows as it’s supposed to, we’re healthy physically and mentally. However, when the flow of qi is disturbed or concentrated around certain acupuncture points, it can result in illness.

To restore the flow of qi, an acupuncturist will insert fine needles into the relevant acupuncture points. This stimulates the body into restoring health and and its natural equilibrium.

Western medicine and TCM are complementary, and both disciplines can work together to your benefit. This is why it’s best to consult with both your physician and a licensed acupuncturist to figure out the best course of treatment. It’s also best if you bring your medical records when you come in for a consultation with your acupuncturist.

At the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, we’ll make sure to pay utmost attention to your needs and provide you with effective acupuncture for morning sickness. Our owner and Licensed Acupuncturist, Tram Pham, has a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine from Yo San University. She also has years of experience in providing patients with all-natural healthcare.

Is acupuncture during pregnancy safe?

There are scientific studies that have investigated the safety of undergoing acupuncture during pregnancy. While side effects can occur, they are rare and and are not severe. At worst, the side effects are moderate, and no severe or fatal side effects have been associated with acupuncture during pregnancy. Side effects may include light dizziness, headaches, fatigue (usually after the first session), and some light bruising on the needle insertion sites.

At most, these side effects will last 24 to 48 hours. However, if they last longer than that time frame, make sure to consult with your practitioner.

Some acupuncture points are known to be “forbidden” for pregnant women. Thus, you should make sure to mention your pregnancy when you come in for a consultation with an acupuncturist.

Acupuncture at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic

The Santa Barbara Herb Clinic was founded in 1986 by Dr. Jean Yu. In 2016, Tram took over the clinic and continued its tradition of providing age-old treatments to the residents of the Santa Barbara and Goleta area. Here, you can experience acupuncture for morning sickness and other pregnancy-related issues.

To schedule an appointment with Tram, you can call us at 805-563-0222 or email us at info@santabarbaraherbclinic.com. If you’re not within driving distance, that’s not a problem. You can also have a consultation with Tram over the phone or via video call. Consider the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic to be your first stop on the road to all-natural and holistic healthcare.

References

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/179633.php

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/morning-sickness-nausea/

https://www.acupuncture.org.uk/public-content/public-pr-press-releases/acupuncture-and-pregnancy.html

https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/08/21/morning-sickness-relief-acupuncture

https://www.nhs.uk/news/pregnancy-and-child/drugs-ginger-and-acupuncture-best-for-morning-sickness/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4112450/

https://www.acupuncture.org.uk/public-content/public-ask-an-expert/ask-an-expert-about-acupuncture/ask-an-expert-about-acupuncture-side-effects/3928-acupuncture-after-effects.html

Acupuncture for Back and Neck Pain: An Uncommon Treatment for a Common Ailment

Posted on July 2, 2018July 6, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

Have you ever considered acupuncture for back and neck pain? It may not be one of the more common pain treatments, but acupuncture does have a lot to offer. If you’re a little intimidated by the prospect, or you want to learn more about how acupuncture can help you with neck and back pain, read on to find answers to your questions.

Back and neck pain: What you should know

Literal pains in the neck can be just as bothersome as the metaphorical ones. Some causes of back and neck pain can be obvious, but some can surprise you. The sensation of pain also isn’t the only thing that you can expect to feel, as there are other sensations that may accompany it.

The usual causes

It can be difficult to determine the cause of back and neck pain, even with the technology available to us now. It also doesn’t help that there is a plethora of possible causes. This kind of pain can result from things like overuse, lifting heavy loads, and improper posture while sitting down for long periods. Arthritis can also affect your back and neck, aside from other joints.

Injury, muscle tension, sprains and strains, and a pinched nerve can also be the source of pain in the area. The effects of a poor lifestyle, such as obesity, can also put a strain on the back and neck. Smoking, while not as obvious as the other causes, can also lead to pain.

Symptoms

Aside from pain, there are also other symptoms that may arise from back and neck pain. If the pain is in your back, you may also experience some tingling or numbness in your leg. You may also feel shooting pains go from your back all the way down the back of your thighs, calves, and even toes.

As for neck pain, you may also experience headaches, numbing or tingling in your arm, and shoulder pain.

However, there is also the possibility that the symptoms won’t simply stop there. If your life is significantly affected by pain, or if that pain is accompanied by other symptoms, please consult with your doctor before seeking out alternative and complementary treatments like acupuncture.

Acupuncture for back and neck pain

There are a number of ways to treat back and neck pain, including the use of hot or cold packs, exercising, stretching, medications, and braces. While these solutions can be effective, you can also consider undergoing acupuncture. After all, acupuncture doesn’t just just relieve pain. It can also help you improve your health from the inside out.

The Santa Barbara Herb Clinic can provide you with acupuncture as well as other services. Our owner and Licensed Acupuncturist, Tram Pham, has been running the clinic since 2016. She also has years of experience in the long-standing practice of acupuncture and herbal medicine, and has a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine from Yo San University.

acupuncture for back and neck pain — Find all-natural pain relief in acupuncture. Photo by Jon Flobrant/Unsplash.com.

How acupuncture works

Acupuncture is quickly becoming more and more recognized in the US for its abilities to help treat a variety of ailments. However, it’s been practiced in for thousands of years in China, where it originated. The rest of the world is catching up, though perhaps just a tad late to the party.

So how does it work? Basically, an acupuncturist inserts fine needles into the patient’s skin. However, these needles have to be situated in acupuncture points for them to be effective. Licensed and experienced acupuncturists will be able to have the skills necessary to pick out the correct acupuncture points based on the patient’s individual needs.

Massage vs acupuncture

When it comes to back and neck pain, we can’t say that acupuncture is the only option. But is it the best option? There are other things you can do to relieve back and neck pain, and most of them don’t include needles. A common way to deal with body pain is massage, which can also be quite effective. The question is, which is one is better? Acupuncture or massage?

This, actually, is probably an unfair comparison. Both can be effective in relieving back and neck pain. Research on which one is more effective than the other has mixed results, and it may be safe to say that both options can be equally viable. Those who have a fear of needles, or have health conditions that may make undergoing acupuncture impossible, can experience pain relief through massage.

The acupuncture points for back and neck pain

Tram practices the balance method of acupuncture, also known as distal healing. She learned it from its creator, Richard Tan, during the last years of his teaching. Distal acupuncture never involves putting needles where the pain is. Thus, your acupuncturist will insert needles into the dorsal aspect of your hand and along your forearm to treat back pain, and in the ankle and wrist to address neck pain.

Acupuncture at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic

The Santa Barbara Herb Clinic has been providing Santa Barbara and nearby areas with holistic health care since 1986. Customers can come to the clinic for acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other treatments that fall under traditional Chinese medicine. Tram, our owner and licensed acupuncturist, has experience in various holistic and age-old therapies that can help with a number of ailments.

If you want to make an appointment with the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, you can call us at 805-563-0222 or email us at info@santabarbaraherbclinic.com. Tram also offers consultations over the phone or via video call. Contact us now and begin your journey to better health.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/acupuncture-for-back-pain#benefits

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/features/acupuncture-pain-killer#1

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/physical_medicine_and_rehabilitation/back_and_neck_pain_85,P01162

https://www.webmd.com/brain/news/20010629/acupuncture-may-be-best-to-ease-neck-pain#2

https://www.uclahealth.org/spinecenter/neck-and-back-pain

http://www.modernreflexology.com/acupressure-points-to-treat-shoulder-and-neck-pains/

http://acupressurepointsguide.com/most-important-acupressure-points-for-back-pain/

Acupuncture for Menopause: The Symptoms of Menopause and How Acupuncture Can Help

Posted on July 2, 2018July 6, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

Acupuncture for menopause can make this natural part of aging less uncomfortable and more manageable. Menopause is an inevitable part of a woman’s life — unfortunately, it doesn’t just come and go without making waves. It has a variety of symptoms that may have a significant impact on a woman’s life.

Though menopause is a natural part of life, that doesn’t mean that you simply have to endure the symptoms until they go away. There are things you can do to lessen the impact of menopause on your life, and one of those things is acupuncture.

Menopause: What you need to know

In the US, the average age of the onset of menopause is 51. Menopause is the natural end of your menstrual cycle; it therefore marks the end of your fertility. Usually, if you’re in your 40s or 50s and haven’t had your period in 12 consecutive months, then you’re likely starting menopause.

Menopause comes naturally with age, but there are also other things that can trigger it. It can also cause some health complications, but fortunately, acupuncture for menopause can help you manage many of menopause’s effects.

Causes

Perhaps the most well-known cause of menopause is age. When a woman is in her late thirties, she begins to produce less and less progesterone and estrogen, which are hormones that regulate menstruation and fertility. A woman in 40s will begin experiencing changes in her menstruation, and by her late 40s or early 50s, her ovaries will stop producing eggs.

A total hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy, or the total removal of the uterus and both ovaries respectively, can also result in immediate menopause. This will also likely be accompanied by severe menopause symptoms, since the changes are immediate and do not happen over the course of years.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can also cause temporary menopause. Another cause of menopause is primary ovarian insufficiency, in which a woman experiences menopause before the age of 40. This condition is quite rare, and only affects about 1% of women.

Symptoms and complications

Perimenopause refers to the span of time that leads up to menopause, typically lasting months or years. During perimenopause, a woman may begin to experience irregularities in her menstrual cycle. She may also begin to experience changes to her body such as vaginal dryness, weight gain, dry skin, thinning hair, and a reduction in breast fullness. She may also experience things like hot flashes, chills, sleep issues, and mood disturbances.

However, that’s not all that may happen. With the onset of menopause also comes an increased risk for many illnesses. Menopause can put a woman at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis, heart disease, and depression. You may also be more prone to urinary incontinence as well as urinary tract infection.

Menopause is a big change, and its symptoms and effects can be difficult to handle. There are some lifestyle changes that women can make so these symptoms can be more manageable, but you also have the option of acupuncture to help you.

Acupuncture for menopause

It’s important to remember that acupuncture will not be able to reverse the aging process, nor can acupuncture stop it. However, acupuncture will be able to help you manage symptoms and make them less severe.

While acupuncture can be helpful, you should still see a doctor when you’re in perimenopause and actual menopause. Your doctor will be able to help you with preventative screening for various health conditions, and they’ll also be able to help you with any questions you may have about acupuncture.

The basics of acupuncture

Acupuncture is an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The principles of TCM state that an individual’s well-being is heavily influenced by a life force called qi (pronounced “chee”). When qi flows normally along parts of the body called meridians, it leads to good health. However, when the flow of qi is disrupted, or is concentrated around certain meridians, it can lead to disruptions in physical, mental, and emotional health as well.

However, acupuncture can restore the normal flow of qi. Acupuncture entails the use of very fine needles, which a licensed acupuncturist will insert into acupuncture points relevant to the specific symptoms the patient is experiencing. The needles can stimulate these acupuncture points and push qi into its proper flow.

While acupuncture is usually low-risk, it can come with some side effects especially if it’s practiced by an unlicensed and inexperienced practitioner. Fortunately, at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, you can be sure to receive safe and effective care. Our owner and Licensed Acupuncturist, Tram Pham, has a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine from Yo San University. She also has years of experience in treating patients under the guidance of the age-old modalities of TCM.

Benefits for menopause

Acupuncture may not be able to help you with each one of the possible symptoms of menopause, but it can help you manage some of the more common symptoms. It can also help you deal with some of the changes that your body may undergo during menopause.

Hot flashes are one of the more common hallmarks of menopause. It can be quite uncomfortable, but acupuncture for menopause can help reduce the frequency of hot flashes, as well as their intensity.

Acupuncture has also been found to be effective in helping with a slower metabolism, as well as weight gain. However, in terms of weight gain, acupuncture is more effective when done in conjunction with lifestyle changes and a better diet.

There is also evidence that acupuncture can induce a better balance in hormones, but more research about this is necessary.

Acupuncture at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic

The Santa Barbara Herb Clinic has been providing acupuncture for menopause and other issues since 1986. The clinic was founded by Dr. Jean Yu, and it passed to Tram in 2016. Tram has since continued the clinic’s tradition of providing Santa Barbara with all-natural and holistic healthcare guided by the principles of TCM.

To book an appointment or schedule a consultation, you can call us at 805-563-0222 or email us at info@santabarbaraherbclinic.com. You can also have a consultation with Tram over the phone or via video call. Contact us today to begin your journey to better health!

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20353397

https://www.medicinenet.com/menopause/article.htm

https://www.healthline.com/health/acupuncture-for-menopause#side-effects

Acupuncture for Fetal Malposition: What You Need to Know

Posted on July 2, 2018July 6, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

Studies have found that acupuncture for fetal malposition can be quite effective in helping turn fetuses for safe and healthy vaginal birth. When the head of a fetus isn’t in the optimal position for vaginal delivery, it’s considered to be a malposition or malpresentation. This can lead to a difficult labor or other complications, and it can also interfere with a woman’s wishes for a natural delivery.

If your due date is looming close and you’ve found that your baby isn’t in the right position yet, acupuncture can help you and your little one get to the right place. Acupuncture, as well as a practice called moxibustion, can be effective in making birth easier and safer.

Fetal malposition or malpresentation

The top of the head of a fetus should normally be positioned toward the mother’s vagina to make vaginal delivery easier and safer. However, there are instances in which a fetus still has not turned right up to the moment of delivery. This is what doctors consider to be fetal malposition, the most common type of which is breech. A fetus in breech position has its legs or buttocks, instead of the top of the head, positioned toward the vagina.

There are other types of malposition or malpresentation as well. A fetus may lie sideways, and though it will still be born with its head first, it will still be in an improper position. Sometimes, the fetus’s may come out first instead of the top of the head, or it may come out with its shoulder in the mother’s pelvis.

Causes

Usually, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of fetal malposition or malpresentation. However, malposition may have something to do with factors such as placenta previa, multiple gestation, or preterm pregnancy. A short umbilical cord, pelvic tumors, uterine anomalies, fetal anomalies, and other issues may also factor into fetal malposition.

Effects of malposition or malpresentation

Fetal malposition carries with it some risks. For one thing, it can prolong labor and make it more difficult, leading to stress for both the fetus and the mother. It can also make a caesarian section more likely, since the surgery can reduce the risks of complications.

A caesarian section is a major surgery, and it takes a longer time to recover from compared to natural vaginal birth. Still, it does make birth safer for both the mother and the baby. However, it’s also an additional cost, and has its share of complications as well.

The best bet, therefore, is to induce the fetus to turn to its proper position. Of course, this is easier said than done. However, acupuncture for fetal malposition can be helpful, thus reducing the risk of complications during birth.

Acupuncture for fetal malposition

There is research that acupuncture can help reposition fetuses in breech or other types of malposition. Acupuncture may seem quite daunting or intimidating. It’s especially more so if you’re not familiar with it or if you haven’t really heard much about it. However, acupuncture is relatively low-risk. Many in the medical community have also recognized acupuncture to be safe for a variety of issues.

Acupuncture is a good alternative or complement to Western medicine. However, you’ll need the advice of your physician before undergoing acupuncture treatments, especially if you’re pregnant. Make sure to consult with your obstetrician first before you make an appointment for an acupuncture session.

Acupuncture in a nutshell

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture is considered to be an effective and important way to restore the normal flow of qi. Qi (pronounced “chee”), is an energy force that flows through every individual. When qi flows normally along markers in the body called meridians, it results in good physical, mental, and emotional health.

However, when the flow of qi is disrupted, blocked, or concentrated around certain meridians, it can affect a person’s well-being.

A licensed acupuncturist inserts very fine needles into certain acupuncture points to deal with and manage certain symptoms. The needles stimulate these acupuncture points and push qi back into its normal flow.

Acupuncture for fetal malposition is at its safest at the hands of a licensed and experienced acupuncturist. Luckily, the owner of the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, Tram Pham, is a Licensed Acupuncturist with a deep knowledge and understanding of TCM. She has a Master’s Degree in Chinese Medicine from Yo San University in Los Angeles, as well as years of experience in treating patients in accordance with the principles of TCM.

Benefits

Acupuncture isn’t the only way to stimulate acupuncture points. When it comes to the correction of breech malposition, an acupuncturist usually uses moxibustion instead of acupuncture. Moxibustion involves the use of heat generated by burning herb preparations containing an herb called moxa. The most common moxibustion technique is lighting a moxa stick on fire and bringing it close to the skin at the relevant acupuncture points. Tram will also teach you how to do this during your appointment, and send you home with moxibustion to continue your treatment at home.

Moxibustion has been found to be safe for both women and fetuses, and it does not cause burns.

Of course, acupuncture can be effective as well. In fact, practitioners have been using acupuncture to turn breech fetuses for about 1,000 years. Studies have shown that acupuncture is effective in helping correct fetal malposition, thus helping reduce complications and reduce the likelihood that a caesarian section would be necessary.

It’s possible, however, that successful moxibustion may render acupuncture unnecessary in cases of fetal malposition.

Acupuncture at the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic

If you need moxibustion or acupuncture for fetal malposition or other issues, come visit the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic. Dr. Jean Yu founded the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic in 1986, and the clinic has been providing Santa Barbara with all-natural and holistic health care since then. Our Licensed Acupuncturist, Tram, has years of experience in TCM and specializes in women’s health.

Get in touch with us and make an appointment to address your various health needs. Call us at 805-563-0222 or email us at info@santabarbaraherbclinic.com to schedule an appointment. However, you can also have a consultation with Tram over the phone or via video call. Contact us today to learn more about how you can take control of your health!

References

http://www.medfriendly.com/malposition-pregnancy.html

https://www.babymed.com/pregnancy/malpresentation-and-malposition-of-the-fetus

http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/280-acupuncturebreechfetus

https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2002.01003.x

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3942064/

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/9046931_Acupuncture_Conversion_of_Fetal_Breech_Presentation

Acupuncture for Children: Studies, Treatment and Benefits

Posted on June 30, 2018July 5, 2018 by SB Herb Clinic

There are many health benefits that come with acupuncture, especially for children who have health concerns ranging from anxiety to ADHD, chronic pain, and much more. There’s also an extra gentle treatment protocol performed specifically in pediatric acupuncture. According to a National Health Statistics report in 2007, there were around 150,000 children in the USA that underwent acupuncture treatment for cases such as anxiety, headaches, migraines, abdominal pain, and musculoskeletal problems.

The tricky thing about acupuncture for children is that the patient might be afraid of needles. If your child has anxiety around needles, they can choose acupressure, which doesn’t have needling and would only require pressing certain acupuncture points. There are also a variety of pediatric acupuncture techniques suitable for children, which may depend on their symptoms and temperament. For example, children may often move around during the treatment if they have trouble sitting still. Depending on their age and condition, your acupuncturist will only leave in needles for up to 20 minutes, However, the acupuncturist may also remove the needles before 20 minutes are up without the treatment losing effectiveness.

More often than not, when the acupuncturist and parents convince kids about the slight and brief sensations of needles, the treatment plan comes without much fuss. As acupuncture also induces the release of endorphins, a child patient instantly feels relief from symptoms.

Acupuncture for Pain in Children

There have been several studies conducted on pediatric acupuncture for a variety of health issues. On one study, children who received acupuncture treatments experienced relief from symptoms of chronic complaints, stomach ache, back ache and headaches. Another study showed that more than a half of patients experienced improvement from migraines, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, and endometriosis. Through acupuncture, children can experience better sleep, fewer school absences, and more extracurricular activities.

Acupuncture for ADHD

Acupuncture has been used as an alternative to pharmaceutical drugs for a wide range of ailments, including ADHD. Parents go for acupuncture for their children in order to avoid the negative side effects that come with ADHD medication. More and more parents are turning to acupuncture to reestablish and maintain the healthy constitution of their children.

Pediatric Acupuncture For Other Health Concerns

Acupuncture can also be used to treat allergies, asthma, coughs, colds, tummy aches, constipation, diarrhea, ear infections, eczema and body pain. A licensed acupuncturist will also assess your child’s medical history, emotional well-being, diet, environment and toxic load, and other factors to determine the right treatment plan.

Is Acupuncture Safe for Children?

Dr. Sunita Vohra from the CARE Program for Integrative Health and Healing at the University of Alberta stated that pediatric acupuncture is safe under trained hands. Results from peer-reviewed studies show that most adverse effects of acupuncture are mild, and are only about 11% of cases. Acupuncture for children also doesn’t need intense needling, as the needles can just be inserted in and out quickly. Also, children will barely feel the hair-thin acupuncture needles. Most of the time, child patients experience relief from symptoms after one or two treatments of acupuncture therapy.

Does an Acupuncture Treatment Hurt?

Acupuncture treatments are relatively pain-free. At most, children may experience numbness, dull ache, or a slight tingling sensation around the needle insertion site. There are instances that a child may cry during the treatment, but the sensation will go away quickly. The acupuncturist may give a little massage to the insertion sites to lessen the sensation.

Take the Next Step By Consulting with a Licensed Acupuncturist

Acupuncture is a natural, safe and effective treatment for children, with a host of benefits that can be experienced for a long time. Book an appointment now with our licensed acupuncturist to get a consultation and treatment which are specific to your child’s health needs. Our acupuncturist, Tram Pham L.Ac, also conducts phone and video consultations for those who can’t come to our Santa Barbara clinic. We also ship herbal prescriptions from our in-house pharmacy to your address.