Acupuncture for Low Back Pain

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese healing practice, has gained popularity in the Western world as a complementary therapy for various health conditions, including low back pain. In this blog, we'll explore how acupuncture in Asheville works and its potential benefits for relieving low back pain.

Understanding Acupuncture

Acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced "chee"), which is believed to flow through pathways in the body called meridians. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), when Qi is disrupted or blocked, it can lead to pain and illness. Acupuncture aims to restore the balance of Qi by inserting thin needles into specific points along the meridians.

How Acupuncture Helps with Low Back Pain

• Pain Relief: One of the primary benefits of acupuncture is pain relief. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, the body releases endorphins and other neurochemicals that can help reduce pain perception.

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for conditions involving inflammation, such as low back pain.

• Muscle Relaxation: Acupuncture can help relax tight muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and reducing muscle tension that contributes to back pain.

• Stress Reduction: Chronic pain, including low back pain, is often associated with increased stress and tension. Acupuncture can help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, which may indirectly alleviate pain.

• Improves Range of Motion: Regular acupuncture sessions may improve flexibility and range of motion in the spine and surrounding muscles, leading to better mobility and reduced pain.

• Balances Energy Flow: From a TCM perspective, acupuncture helps balance the flow of energy in the body, addressing underlying imbalances that may contribute to low back pain.

Research on Acupuncture for Low Back Pain

Numerous studies have investigated the efficacy of acupuncture for low back pain, with many showing positive results. A meta-analysis published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2012 found that acupuncture is effective for treating chronic low back pain and is a reasonable referral option. Additionally, the American College of Physicians recommends acupuncture as a non-pharmacological treatment option for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain.

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

During an acupuncture session for low back pain, a licensed acupuncturist will assess your condition and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. You'll typically lie down comfortably while the acupuncturist inserts thin needles into specific points on your body. The needles are usually left in place for about 15 to 30 minutes, during which you may experience sensations like tingling, warmth, or a dull ache.

Conclusion

Acupuncture can be a valuable addition to conventional treatments for low back pain. Its ability to promote pain relief, reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and improve overall well-being makes it a popular choice for many individuals seeking natural and holistic pain management options. However, it's essential to consult with a qualified acupuncturist like  Krystal in Asheville and work in conjunction with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that meets your unique needs.

Acupuncture for Radiant Women's Health

Acupuncture for General Women's Health and Wellness

What is Radiant Women’s Health? At Asheville Integrative Acupuncture, we believe that radiant health starts with radical self care. Self Care is what it’s all about! We can only serve from a full cup. If your inner temple is strong and vibrant, then everyone in your life benefits. Radiant Women’s Health is all about honoring your bodie’s changes and needs, while supporting them in a loving way. Women are like the moon, our bodies going through different phases throughout our lifetimes. When we know how to support these phases, we can live our healthiest lives!

In recent years, acupuncture has gained popularity as a holistic approach to health and wellness. While acupuncture is known to be effective for treating various medical conditions, it also offers numerous benefits for general women's health and wellness. In this blog post, we will explore how acupuncture can support women's well-being across different stages of life.

Menstrual Health and Hormonal Balance

Many women experience menstrual issues such as irregular periods, painful cramps, and hormonal imbalances at some point in their lives. Acupuncture has been shown to be a natural and effective treatment for these conditions. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to the reproductive system and hormonal regulation, acupuncture can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce pain and discomfort, and restore hormonal balance.

Research has indicated that acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers, and regulate the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. This can lead to fewer menstrual symptoms and a more regular menstrual cycle for many women.

Fertility Support

For couples struggling with fertility issues, acupuncture can be a beneficial complementary treatment. Acupuncture can help improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, regulate ovulation, and balance hormones, all of which can enhance fertility and increase the chances of conception.

Several studies have shown that acupuncture can improve the success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technologies (ART) when used in conjunction with conventional treatments. Additionally, acupuncture can reduce stress and anxiety levels, which are known to negatively impact fertility.

Pregnancy and Postpartum Care

Acupuncture can also be a valuable tool for supporting women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. We have supported many women in Asheville over the years with their pregnancy related discomforts, such as: nausea, back pain, fatigue, and insomnia. Acupuncture can help alleviate these symptoms and promote a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy.

Furthermore, acupuncture can be beneficial for inducing labor, reducing labor pain, and facilitating postpartum recovery. It can help balance hormones, promote milk production, and alleviate postpartum depression and anxiety, allowing new mothers to feel more relaxed and supported during this transitional period. Read our blogs on breech babies, postpartum acupuncture, and acupuncture for labor preparation.

Menopausal Symptoms

As women approach menopause, they may experience a range of symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and insomnia due to fluctuating hormone levels. Acupuncture can offer natural relief from these symptoms by balancing hormone levels, reducing stress, and promoting better sleep quality.

Several studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can be as effective as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in relieving menopausal symptoms without the associated risks and side effects. Many women find that acupuncture provides them with a safe and gentle alternative for managing their menopausal symptoms and improving their overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Acupuncture offers a holistic and natural approach to promoting women's health and wellness at every stage of life. Whether you are dealing with menstrual issues, fertility challenges, pregnancy discomforts, or menopausal symptoms, acupuncture can provide effective relief and support without the need for medications or invasive procedures.

Dr. Krystal Kinnunen at Asheville Integrative Acupuncture specializes in women’s health care needs. She is known for her fertility acupuncture treatments, as well as pregnancy and menopausal acupuncture.

Call (or text) 828-739-0345 to contact us today to schedule your acupuncture appointment and get started on your path to wellness and fertility. You can also book an appointment directly or use the contact form to reach us.

See Also:
Increase the Chance of Getting Pregnant with Fertility Acupuncture

Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Call the Acupuncturist (my time with Ina May Gaskin)

Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine for Grief

In this blog, I want to talk about grief and grief support. Grief is universally something we all will face in our lifetime. I believe that knowing how to support grief both for yourself and others is an important way to make an impact on the collective. May we all lift each other up into light and love.

I am called to speak on grief after the recent loss of my first love, Naymond. 

As a biracial couple, we had to hide away from the world. Naymond said it himself, it felt like the world was against us. Our love was so pure and innocent, and it never went away. He left an imprint on me 31 years ago. Shaped who I am today. Taught me about love, how to give and receive love. I hope to one day share our story and inspire other biracial couples who love each other deeply. 

In this time of loss, I am surrendering into the grief and embracing it as a time of acknowledging his legacy and our love. I hope for his legacy to live on through me and his loved ones. His legacy of being kind, inclusive, gentle, and always having a bright smile. He would always say he wanted to give love and lift people up to happiness. 

Grieving is a holy state that demands honor.

Those in grief need a cloak of love around them. In our Western world, we try to avoid/run away / push away this wild, untamed emotion that feels as if it could swallow us. If you surrender, it's a beautiful state of awareness that allows the depth of love to overcome you. It is the space that will allow you to live more fully alive. 

To all of those grieving, you have my protection and care. I am here to support you with acupuncture and herbal medicine as well.

Acupuncture for Grief

Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine offer invaluable support for those who are dealing with grief. This ancient medicine has long been used as an effective way of relieving stress levels, bringing emotional balance and treating physical symptoms that arrive with grief.

Stress Reduction and Emotional Balance

Acupuncture can stimulate the production of endorphins, the body's natural mood enhancers. When specific points are targeted during the grieving process, acupuncture may significantly reduce stress and provide emotional balance.

Important Points:

Yin Tang: This point between the eyebrows helps calm the mind and promote emotional equilibrium.

Heart 7 (Shenmen, also called “Spirit Gate”): This point is seen is a the gate/door to access the spirit/mind/emotions, the point is located on the wrist and helps immensely with relieving anxiety and supporting relaxation.

Physical Symptoms

Grief often manifests physically. People may often associate grief with only affecting us on an emotional level, but grief affects our mind, body, spirit. Physical grief can manifest in many ways, but often issues include: headaches, digestive problems, insomnia, lack of appetite, fatigue, and tension. The grieving process is different for everyone.

Important Points:

Pericardium 6 (Nei Guan): This point is located on the inner forearm, it is known for relieving nausea and vomiting. If you are experiencing upset stomach, this is the point to use.

Stomach 36 (Zu San Li, “Leg Three Mile”): This point is located at the lower leg level, it is associated with boosting energy levels, alleviating digestive problems, and relieving fatigue. This point is often associated with longevity.

Herbal Medicine For Grief

Medicinal plants and herbs are a great ally to have during grief and herbal medicine has many different ways of providing relief both for physical and emotional symptoms.

Ashwagandha ~ This adaptogen works to build emotional resilience and stress adaptation.

Ginseng ~ Works to support mental clarity, energy levels, and stress response.

Lavender ~ Soothes nerves and supports restful sleep and relaxation

Valerian Root ~ Like lavender, this nervine herb works to relax the nervous system while promoting sleep and peace.

St. John’s Wort ~ Works to elevate your mood by relieving anxiety and tension, it can relieve mild depressive symptoms and reduces inflammation.

Chamomile ~ Another plant ally for tension and anxiety relief, as well as insomnia.

Passionflower ~ Supports anxiety and sleep issues.

Hawthorn ~ This is a classic heart tonic remedy in Western Herbalism, known for bringing strength and power to the heart and helping it to normalize in whatever way it needs.

Lemon Balm ~ John Evelyn, a writer of the 17th-century said Lemon Balm “comforts the heart and driveth away melancholy and sadness”. This plant works on lifting depression and sadness.

Motherwort ~ Also known as a remedy for the heart, this plant is a great ally to turn to during times of weakness within the heart. It supports feelings of anxiety and uneasiness. This is especially beneficial if you have physical body symptoms such as palpitations and tension in the chest.

Additional Herbal Support:
Grief Relief, Herbal Supplement
Bach, Star of Bethlehem, Flower Essence

Surrendering Into Grief:
Grief Flower Ritual

From my beloved mentor, Marna ❤️

• Obtain a bouquet of 9 fresh white carnations or roses.

• Take the flowers with you to a river or an abundantly flowing creek.

• Stand beside the river and make a physical offering of gratitude to the spirit of the river/creek by releasing some tobacco or cornmeal into the river/creek. Also make an offering to our Earth Mother, as well as to any other stewarding spirits and luminous ones to whom you feel guided to offer.

• Then take the bouquet of white rose/carnations, and, standing beside the river/creek, hold the flowers in prayer position against your heart.  Pray, as you hold the bouquet, about any and all grief, sadness and sorrow that you feel in your life. Encounter your own feelings of grief and loss as fully and viscerally as you can, and release them into the flower by talking, whispering or blowing into the blossoms. Allow yourself to go fully into your grief, sadness, sorrow. Let yourself weep, if you feel tears welling within you. Cry into the blossoms.
  

  Pray, pray, pray.
  

• When you feel complete with your praying, squat beside the river/creek and dip the carnation blossoms into the water. Return to a standing position and cleanse the front of your body, from head to foot. Make sure that you physically touch the moistened blossoms to your body, allowing yourself to get wet as you wipe the front of your body down with the flowers.

• After cleansing the front of your body, squat again and dip the blossoms into the water. Come to standing, and wash the left side of your body, from head to foot – touching the wet flower blossoms to your body. Make sure to wipe under your arm and along the side of your torso.

• Again squat and dip the flower blossoms into the river/creek water. Stand and cleanse the right side of your body, from head to foot.

• Squat one final time, dipping the flowers in the water. Stand and cleanse, from head to foot, the back of your body as best as you are able.

• Clasp the flowers between your hands in prayer position at your heart and make any final prayers into the flowers. Then release the bouquet into the river/creek and watch the river wash the flowers downstream.

Give thanks.

Understanding Breech Babies and Acupuncture Solutions

Pregnancy is a journey filled with unique challenges and experiences, one of which can be managing a breech pregnancy. In such cases, the baby positions itself bottom-down in the pelvis, which can cause understandable concern for expectant mothers. However, traditional and holistic approaches like acupuncture and moxibustion offer a beacon of hope. This guide aspires to demystify the concept of breech babies, emphasizing that it's a normal variation in childbirth, and to introduce the benefits of acupuncture and related therapies in managing this condition. By exploring these age-old techniques, we can understand how they can gently and effectively encourage the baby to assume the optimal position for birth, providing peace of mind and a healthier pregnancy experience.

Breech Babies: A Normal Variation

Breech babies, where the baby is positioned bottom-down in the pelvis, are a natural variation in childbirth. Although it might sound unusual, babies can be in various positions throughout pregnancy and can change position at any time, even close to delivery. Around 32 weeks, some babies may shift to a breech position. This can cause worry, especially with common fear-based reactions from others. However, it's important to remember that having a breech baby is not a failure, and there are skilled professionals who can deliver breech babies safely.

Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Breech Position

If you're looking to encourage your baby to move out of a breech position, acupuncture, moxibustion, and myofascial release can be effective methods. The best time to start these treatments is between 33 and 34 weeks. During an acupuncture session, I'll assess your pregnancy progress, any physical discomfort, and emotional stress, aiming to align your body and help the baby move into a head-down position. Acupuncture involves placing needles at specific points to relax your body, align the pelvis, and encourage the baby to move. This is followed by moxibustion, a technique where a heated herbal stick warms specific acupuncture points, promoting movement and relaxation.

The Role of Myofascial Release

After acupuncture, I use myofascial release to loosen the ligaments in your hips, creating more space for your baby to move. This combined approach is designed to optimize the chances of your baby turning head-down.

Supporting Baby's Position through Growth Spurts

Between 34 and 36 weeks, babies often experience a growth spurt. This can be a crucial time as the baby's head weight can help maintain a head-down position once they rotate. Regular acupuncture sessions up until labor can support this process. Additionally, we provide moxa sticks with instructions for daily use at home to reinforce the treatment goals, aiding in maintaining the baby's position.

Acupuncture Fertility and Pregnancy Support

The journey through a breech pregnancy, though often fraught with concerns, can be navigated successfully with the help of acupuncture and moxibustion. These traditional methods offer a natural, non-invasive way to encourage your baby to move into a head-down position, reducing the likelihood of complications during delivery. 

By integrating acupuncture, moxibustion, and myofascial release into your prenatal care routine, you can not only address the breech position but also enhance your overall pregnancy wellness. 

Remember, each pregnancy is unique, and embracing a holistic approach can provide the support and balance needed for both mother and baby during this special time. As you embark on this journey, consider acupuncture and related therapies as valuable allies in ensuring a healthy and joyful pregnancy experience.

See also:  Improving Fertility Through Acupuncture 

Call (or text) 828-739-0345 to contact us today to schedule your acupuncture appointment and get started on your path to wellness and fertility. You can also book an appointment directly or use the contact form to reach us.

Can Acupuncture Help Treat Long Covid?

As of Janurary 2023, 15% of all Americans report having symptoms of Long Covid, a condition that arises after the body battles a Covid-19 infection. Few know that acupuncture may be the answer in providing symptom relieving results. But what exactly are the symptoms of Long Covid and how can acupuncture help? Read on to learn more. 

What Exactly is Long Covid?

Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a condition where individuals continue to experience symptoms and health issues well beyond the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection. These symptoms can persist for weeks or even months after the initial illness, and they can vary widely but often include fatigue, difficulty thinking or concentrating (often referred to as "brain fog"), shortness of breath, and a range of other physical and psychological symptoms. Long COVID can significantly impact a person's quality of life and may require ongoing medical care and support.

Symptoms of Long Covid

We're receiving numerous reports about people who are still not feeling well even after recovering from COVID-19. They're finding it hard to go back to their usual selves and are grappling with persistent symptoms that stick around long after they test negative for the virus. These symptoms often include feeling very tired, having aches in their joints, and facing problems with thinking clearly. Recent research is also supporting what doctors have believed for a while: acupuncture can be beneficial in reducing inflammation linked to long-lasting post-COVID symptoms. These symptoms can include:

• Ongoing fatigue, which can worsen with activity

• Sleep that doesn't leave you feeling refreshed, even after a full night's rest

• Cognitive and neurological issues, such as trouble with memory, difficulty concentrating, brain fog, and struggles with processing new information

• Muscle or joint pain

• Digestive symptoms, like nausea, diarrhea, or constipation

• Heightened sensitivity to light, smell, or sound

• Rapid or racing heartbeat

• Frequent headaches

Fatigue stands out as one of the most prevalent and noticeable symptoms. Typically, fatigue is a common response following a viral infection, and people tend to recover their energy levels relatively quickly. However, the fatigue associated with COVID-19 is distinct. It persists and can worsen even with minimal exertion, making even simple tasks or light exercise feel overwhelmingly taxing. In some cases, this fatigue is so debilitating that individuals may forgo basic activities like bathing or preparing meals due to the immense effort it requires.

COVID-19 may also give rise to other symptoms, such as insomnia, anxiety, or depression. These symptoms are not typically directly caused by the virus itself but are often a consequence of the prolonged uncertainty we are facing as we adapt to living with the virus in our lives.

Long Covid Vs. Acupuncture

Emerging evidence suggests that individuals experiencing the challenging and persistent symptoms of Long COVID may find relief through acupuncture treatments. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved, some studies have shown that acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice involving the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, may help alleviate certain Long COVID symptoms. 

Acupuncture is known for its potential to promote relaxation, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being, which could be particularly beneficial for individuals grappling with the lingering effects of the virus. Nevertheless, it's crucial for individuals considering acupuncture as a part of their Long COVID management to consult with healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan that best suits their specific needs.

Effective Acupuncture Treatment for Post-Viral Syndromes

Fortunately, acupuncture boasts a rich historical legacy of effectively addressing these persistent syndromes. Master physicians from over 2,000 years ago documented methods for successfully treating epidemics that once swept through Asia. Central to this tradition was, and still is, the emphasis on maintaining overall health to prevent the onset of such illnesses or, if contracted, to reduce their duration and severity.

Contemporary research substantiates these age-old practices. Recent studies have highlighted the remarkable effectiveness of acupuncture in mitigating the cytokine storm associated with an overactive immune system. Additionally, acupuncture has demonstrated significant efficacy as a preventative measure.

Seeking Acupuncture in Asheville

The full extent of the long-term repercussions of COVID-19 remains unknown. As a consequence of this virus, some individuals have reported enduring post-viral symptoms for a period of up to six months. Others have yet to see the end of their long covid symptoms. 

At Asheville Intergrative Acupuncture, Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, DAOM, L. Ac, is certified through the National Certification Commission For Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Traditional Oriental Medicine. Praciting for over 12 years and helping countless through acupuncture. She specializes in fertility, maternity and post-partum care with clinical interests in treating pain, women’s health, mental and digestive health.

If you’re suffering from long covid and are ready to find relief through acupunture than Click here to contact us today to schedule an appointment today.  

Postpartum Acupuncture: Caring For Your Body After Baby

At Asheville Integrative Acupuncture, our primary aim is to assist you in achieving a successful pregnancy and welcoming a healthy baby into your life. However, our support doesn't end there; we also offer Postpartum Acupuncture as an essential part of our care. 

In Chinese Medicine, it is believed that how a woman treats her physical body in the initial 30 days following childbirth significantly impact her health and can have a lasting impact on her well-being in the long run.

Throughout pregnancy, a woman generously directs her body's resources toward her growing child. This giving continues through the taxing process of childbirth, depleting her reserves of vital energy (known as qi) and blood. From a Chinese perspective, this leaves a new mother more susceptible to invasions of wind, cold, or dampness, as her body has been weakened and emptied by the birthing experience. On a positive note, this period presents a unique opportunity for rejuvenation and a chance to reset her constitution, provided she takes diligent care of herself and her newborn.

Postpartum care is centered around the concepts of warming and "tonifying" the new mother's body. Think of it as reigniting the pilot light. The ideal time to reintroduce warmth is typically five to seven days after birth, assuming there are no signs of infection. In many cultures, warming practices are standard post-birth care routines. These may involve the use of hot stones, warm water bottles, soothing oils, or comforting fires.

Postpartum acupuncture, in particular, offers several potential benefits for new mothers. Here are some of these potential advantages:

1. Hormonal Balance: Acupuncture has the capacity to regulate hormonal levels after childbirth, aiding in the recovery process. It can assist the body in reestablishing hormonal equilibrium, potentially alleviating postpartum symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and depression.

2. Pain Relief: Postpartum discomfort, such as back pain, perineal soreness, or breast engorgement, is common. Acupuncture can provide relief by triggering the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relievers, potentially reducing discomfort and promoting a quicker recovery.

3. Stress Reduction: The postpartum phase can be both physically and emotionally overwhelming. Acupuncture sessions can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation. By targeting specific acupuncture points, it may enhance the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with well-being.

4. Enhanced Milk Production: Some mothers encounter challenges with breastfeeding and low milk supply. Acupuncture may stimulate milk production by increasing blood flow to the breasts and harmonizing the body's energy pathways. It can also address related issues like clogged ducts or mastitis.

5. Hormonal Regulation for Breastfeeding: Acupuncture may aid in regulating the hormonal fluctuations linked to breastfeeding, such as the release of prolactin. This support can help establish a consistent milk supply and encourage lactation.

6. Postpartum Depression Support: Acupuncture has been found beneficial in managing postpartum depression. By targeting specific acupuncture points, it may help restore the body's energy balance and regulate neurotransmitters related to mood. It is often used in conjunction with other postpartum depression treatments as a complementary therapy.

It is essential to recognize that while acupuncture offers potential benefits, individual experiences may differ. Consulting with a licensed acupuncturist specializing in postpartum care is advisable to determine the most suitable approach for your specific needs. Additionally, it is always recommended to inform your healthcare provider about any complementary therapies you are considering.

Postpartum Acupuncture In Asheville 

If your about to have a baby or have just had a baby, congratulations! Now is the time to take care of your postpartum health and try acupuncture for your postpartum symptoms. 

In addition to helping you through your postpartum care, Dr. Kystal Kinnunen, DAOM, L.Ac. specializes in helping patients with fertility, through pregnancy and birth. With over 12 years of experience, Dr. Kinnunen has helped hundreds and she can help you feel better too. In addition to being a licensed acupuncturist, Dr. Kinnunen is a trained midwife’s assistant, Reiki Master, and prenatal yoga instructor.

Click here or call/text 828-739-0345 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, and begin your path to wellness through the healing art of acupuncture.

Why You Might Consider Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Whether you're contemplating acupuncture, a method involving thin needles, during pregnancy, it may help alleviate common discomforts like nausea and pain. Pregnancy can bring its own set of challenges, and you might wonder if willingly receiving needle treatments is a wise choice. However, many expectant mothers have found relief from issues such as morning sickness and headaches through acupuncture.

Acupuncture has received scientific support for its potential to ease typical pregnancy discomforts. 

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice originating from China thousands of years ago. In this practice, traditional Chinese medicine sees the body as a balance between opposing forces known as yin and yang.

When an imbalance occurs between these forces, it disrupts the flow of vital energy, referred to as "qi" (pronounced CHEE), along internal pathways called meridians. During acupuncture sessions, practitioners insert incredibly thin needles into specific points along these meridians to restore balance and promote health.

But does it work? Researchers have discovered that these acupuncture points correspond to deep-seated nerves. When these needles are manipulated or electrically stimulated (known as electroacupuncture), they activate these nerves. This activation triggers the release of various brain chemicals, including endorphins, which can block pain signals and potentially relieve pregnancy symptoms.

The Benefits of Receiving Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Acupuncture has garnered recognition for its potential in alleviating a variety of pregnancy-related discomforts. These include heartburn, leg swelling, carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, back pain, headaches, and morning sickness. Given the limitations on the types of pain medications that can be safely taken during pregnancy, having acupuncture as an additional resource can be invaluable.

Here is a list of some common pregnancy symptoms allievated through acupuncture:

1. Morning Sickness: Some studies suggest that traditional acupuncture, focusing on the wrist, may reduce the nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness. However, other studies have found no effect.

2. Lower Back and Pelvic Pain: Research indicates that acupuncture may help reduce pregnancy-related lower back and pelvic pain.

3. Depression: Depression is not uncommon during pregnancy, affecting nearly 1 in 4 women. A specific form of acupuncture tailored to address depression symptoms has shown promise in reducing their severity.

4. Headaches: Acupuncture has been shown to potentially reduce pregnancy-induced headaches, leading to reduced medication usage.

5. Sleep Problems: Some research indicates that acupuncture may help pregnant women sleep better, addressing the challenges of getting quality sleep during pregnancy.

Regarding safety, when performed by trained professionals, acupuncture during pregnancy is generally considered safe with minimal risks.

One important consideration is the location of acupuncture points. Certain points, such as those near the ankle, are believed to induce contractions and should be avoided until late in pregnancy.

If you're thinking about acupuncture during pregnancy, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Consult Your Doctor: Discuss acupuncture with your healthcare provider to ensure it's a suitable option for you, considering your health conditions, medications, and specific needs.

• Choose a Qualified Acupuncturist: Look for a licensed acupuncturist certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), with experience in treating pregnant women. You can seek recommendations from local doula associations or use the NCCAOM practitioner search page.

• Consider Costs: Before starting treatment, discuss the number of sessions needed and their costs with the acupuncturist. Check with your insurance provider to determine coverage.

• Monitor for Warning Signs: During or after a session, you shouldn't experience unusual contractions unless you're seeking labor induction at term. If you do, or if you notice any concerning symptoms, contact your doctor promptly.

In conclusion, acupuncture can offer relief from various pregnancy discomforts, but it's essential to approach it thoughtfully, with the guidance of a qualified professional and your healthcare provider's input.

Asheville Intergrative Acupuncture

If your pregnant and looking to alleviate your pregnancy symptoms through acupuncture, you’ve come to the right place.  Dr. Kystal Kinnunen, DAOM, L.Ac. specializes in helping patients with fertility, birth and postpartum care. With over 12 years of experience, Dr. Kinnunen has helped hundreds and she can help you feel better too. In addition to being a licensed acupuncturist, Dr. Kinnunen is a trained midwife’s assistant, Reiki Master, and prenatal yoga instructor.

Click here or call/text 828-739-0345 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, and begin your path to wellness through the healing art of acupuncture.

Acupuncture and Your Eye Health

For thousands of years, people have used acupuncture to help treat eye problems. Today, it can be a helpful way to protect your eyes if you have conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, dry eyes, or cataracts. Acupuncture is part of a traditional Chinese medicine practice. It involves sticking tiny needles into your skin. Many states in the US have rules and standards for acupuncture. But how does it work, and what can it do for your eyes? We'll explain how acupuncture works, what it does for eye problems, what you can expect from acupuncture treatments, and where you can find the best acupuncturist in Asheville.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture comes from ancient Chinese traditions. A trained acupuncturist puts tiny needles into specific points on your body. These points are usually along energy pathways called "meridians." In Chinese medicine, when these meridians get blocked or unbalanced, it can hurt your health. There are 71 meridians in your body, but acupuncturists typically focus on about 20 of them. These points vary depending on what the acupuncturist thinks is wrong with you. They pick points based on what they see and ask you during your visit. Small needles stay in your skin for a short time, usually around 20 to 30 minutes. The idea is to help your energy flow better and balance your meridians.

Western medicine often treats diseases with specific treatments. These treatments usually focus on relieving symptoms and managing the illness. But Chinese medicine thinks that diseases happen because some parts of your body aren't working well together. If you fix these imbalances over time, you can get better. An acupuncturist looks at your body, sometimes by checking your tongue and pulse, to find these imbalances. They use this information to choose which meridians to work on. That's why two people with the same disease in Western medicine might get different acupuncture treatments. Acupuncture often combines with herbs as part of your treatment. These herbs also aim to fix imbalances. After your acupuncture session, you might get a bag of herbs, teas, or ointments to use at home.

For chronic conditions, you might need acupuncture once or twice a week until you feel better. Acute problems might need more frequent treatments. You usually go to an acupuncturist's office for treatment. You wear loose clothes, and you might have to roll up your sleeves or pants. After the acupuncturist checks you, you lie down, and they put in the tiny needles. These needles are thinner than a human hair. They don't usually hurt. The FDA makes sure the needles are clean and only used once to reduce the risk of infection.

The Liver Meridian's Role

The liver meridian is important for eye problems because it connects to your eyes. It's the main energy path that supports good vision. All your organs give energy to your eyes, and your meridians connect to your eyes too.

In your eyes, certain meridians have a big effect:

• eye and pupil: kidneys

• sclera: lungs

• veins and arteries: heart

• bottom eyelid: stomach

• top eyelid: spleen

• cornea and iris: liver

• Retina: kidneys and liver

An acupuncturist might choose a few meridians to work on during your treatment. They might pick different points during your visits as your body gets better. You don't need to believe in acupuncture for it to work. Many studies show that it can help with all kinds of health problems.

Acupuncture and Eye Health

We don't have a lot of scientific research about acupuncture, even though people have used it for thousands of years. Some studies haven't been translated from Chinese to other languages, so we can't read them. Also, many studies use fake acupuncture for comparison, which might not be the best way to study acupuncture.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

When older people's eyes start to break down, Western medicine often says there's not much we can do but wait. This is especially true for eye problems like Dry Macular Degeneration, Retinitis Pigmentosa, Stargardt's Disease, and Rod-Cone Dystrophy. Doctors usually give injections, eye drops, and laser treatments for bleeding or swelling in the retina. But they don't usually think about energy imbalances or nutrient problems that can lead to eye diseases.

A small study in China found that acupuncture helped 88% of Macular Degeneration patients, while a control group that got vitamins and medicine had a 60% success rate.

Retinitis Pigmentosa

People with Retinitis Pigmentosa often lose their side and color vision as they get older because the cells in their eyes break down. A small study in 2014 found that half the patients got better vision from acupuncture and nutrition support.

Glaucoma and Acupuncture

In 2007, researchers tried to see if acupuncture could help with glaucoma. But they couldn't find enough research to say for sure.

A small study with 11 patients showed that acupuncture made their eye pressure better 15 minutes after the treatment. They also saw better with their eyes. They got acupuncture twice a week for five weeks, but the effect didn't last more than a month.

But a recent study found that electro-acupuncture on certain points helped lower eye pressure.

Acupuncture and Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is common, especially in places where people use screens a lot and study a ton. Doctors usually use glasses or contact lenses to treat it. One study used a method where they stimulated acupuncture points with electricity and gave eye drops called atropine. The people who got this treatment had less worsening of their myopia, their eyes didn't get longer, and they had less pressure in their eyes.

Another big study with 409 kids found that acupuncture didn't make myopia better, but it helped with their eye symptoms.

Acupuncture might not work for everyone or every eye problem, but it could be a helpful option for some people. If you're interested in trying it, talk to an acupuncturist to see if it's right for you.

Asheville Intergrative Acupuncture: Helping Heal Your Eyes and So Much More

At Asheville Intergrative Acupuncture, Dr. Kystal Kinnunen, DAOM, L.Ac. has been helping people with all kinds of ailments for over a decade. With over 12 years of experience, Dr. Kinnunen can help you feel better. Her clinical interests range from treating pain, digestive health, mental health, women’s health, infertility, as well as maternity and postpartum care. 

Click here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, and begin your path to wellness through the healing art of acupuncture.