A study of 1,200 basketball players with reported ankle sprains was conducted by the Department of Physical Education at Changsha Normal University and in conjunction with the Institute of Sport at Jishou University, to look at the efficacy of acupoint application and acupoint massage in treating these injuries. The participants were treated with routine care, such as icing, compression, elevation and stabilization, as well as acupuncture and massage. The results of the study showed the participants who received the additional acupuncture and massage had shorter hospital stays, less pain and less need for pain medications. 

Sprains and strains are common, not just in athletes, but also the everyday person. A sprain is defined as a stretch or tear of a ligament. A strain, on the other hand, is defined as an injury to a muscle or tendon. Sprains can result from a fall, a sudden twist or a blow to the body that forces a joint out of place, while a strain can happen from twisting or pulling a muscle or tendon.
        
Instinctively, when a person experiences a sprain or a strain, either learned first aid skills take over or they may immediately go to the emergency room. Things like taking the pressure off the joint, raising the joint and applying ice to alleviate swelling and inflammation are all great places to start and many times this is exactly what happens in the emergency room. Icing a sprain or strain is only good for the first 48 to 72 hours, as it will help decrease swelling. However, prolonged use of ice may impair movement and also interfere with the healing process because it constricts the tissues and impedes blood flow. But there are other possible solutions to healing a sprain or a strain. And one of these would be to see an acupuncturist or Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner. 
        
TCM practitioners have many tools at their disposal that can assist in increased healing of a strain or sprain. When either of these injuries occur, the muscles surrounding the area tighten up in an effort to protect the injured site. This can then lead to stiffness in that joint. This is the body’s natural defense mechanism that decreases strong blood flow to the area. TCM practitioners use acupuncture and other modalities to help loosen up the muscles and increase blood flow to the area, which brings in tissue-healing oxygen and nutrients.  
       
Increasing blood flow is just one way a TCM practitioner can help. There are also specific acupressure points that reduce swelling, decrease inflammation and alleviate pain. Through the use of regular acupuncture treatments immediately following a sprain or strain injury, the body can heal faster.  The more frequently the person can come in for treatments, the quicker the results will occur. 

In a 2014 study published by the World Journal of Gastroenterology, researchers found a positive link between acupuncture and the treatment of symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Researchers were able to prove through meta-analysis that acupuncture does indeed help prevent and heal symptoms those with IBS may be facing. 

The study involved using randomly-controlled trials in order to evaluate the specific efficiency of acupuncture for IBS. The researchers sifted through various information from MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials in order to come up with their information. Both double-blind and placebo-controlled trials were looked at in their research in order to determine acupuncture’s effectiveness on treating the symptoms of IBS.
Although there is still no universally-accepted cure for IBS, the researchers found information to determine that acupuncture is one way to help improve the quality of life of those afflicted with IBS.
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If you or someone you know may be experiencing symptoms of IBS, send them to your local licensed acupuncturist and get them on a treatment plan right away, it could make a big difference in their daily routine as they try to cope with IBS. 

More Americans want to live longer. Over 53% of the respondents in an MDVIP and Ipsos survey revealed that they even wanted to reach the age of 100. That reveals a startling phenomenon: most people focus on their lifespan—not their "health span." As you enter your later years, it's important to remember that you'll be more vulnerable to illnesses and injuries. To truly live a longer life and enjoy it, you thus have to age gracefully. 

The key to aging gracefully involves supporting not just your longevity, but your vitality. By using strategies that tackle all aspects of your health, you can enjoy the benefits of a strong mind and body for longer without running into serious health conditions. Here are some of the best holistic practices you can try that will help you age gracefully. 

The Mediterranean diet 

How you nourish yourself can significantly affect your short- and long-term health, which is why balanced meals are crucial for establishing both longevity and vitality. That's also what makes the Mediterranean diet one of the best in the world for living longer. Mediterranean cuisine leverages ingredients like fresh produce, fruits, nuts, seafood, and olive oil, all containing a diverse range of nutrients great for reducing inflammation and boosting your immune system. Studies thus find that starting this diet can lower your risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes—and, potentially, even slow cognitive decline to shield you against dementia and Alzheimer's for longer. The best part is you don't necessarily need to eat Mediterranean cuisine itself on the regular. As long as you prioritize the same ingredients in your meals while minimizing your intake of dairy, red meat, and food with added sugars, you can enjoy the benefits of this holistic eating practice. 

Yoga 

Healthy diets are best paired with regular exercise, and there are few physical activities out there that are better for aging gracefully than yoga. This holistic practice can do more than just teach you calming breathing techniques and improve your flexibility. When you start doing yoga, you use your own body weight to engage several muscle groups at once—a form of strength training that, over time, will bolster your cardiovascular health and keep your bones and muscles from weakening as you age. In the process, yoga's relaxing motions can also help relieve aches and pains. That includes the chronic pain brought about by age-related conditions like arthritis. Ultimately, it can help you maintain your vitality for longer in multiple ways. The best part arguably lies in the fact that yoga is a low-impact exercise, meaning you can easily begin it no matter your age or fitness level.

Recreational therapy 

Your mental health and well-being should be another aspect you should focus on when aiming to age gracefully. Researchers from Colorado State University emphasize the link between mental and physical health, highlighting that caring for the former can enhance the latter to improve overall longevity and vitality. Doing so will also put you in the best state of mind possible to enjoy your golden years to the fullest. When looking for a holistic practice that will help you do just that, consider recreational therapy. This strategy essentially involves taking up hobbies that do everything from improving cognitive function and relieving stress to helping you socialize and enhancing your physical strength. It's even easier to get started: choose practically any activity you prefer, whether it's dancing or arts and crafts, and decide whether you want to try it in a group setting or one-on-one with a relative or friend.  

Acupuncture

Though the above strategies can help you significantly progress toward the goal of aging gracefully, there's one holistic practice you should definitely have on your list--something that can get to the root of improved longevity and vitality itself by improving your immune system. That something is acupuncture. This Chinese medical practice upholds Wei Qi, a form of protective energy that permeates the body and protects it from invading pathogens. Acupuncture strengthens immunity by balancing that energy, which is why its primary benefits will see you enjoying increased white blood cell production and a more regulated immune response. As with the other practices in this piece, however, it can do even more. The secondary benefits of acupuncture include stress relief, improved sleep quality, and pain management, all of which can assist you in living longer while enjoying a more robust vitality. If you're curious about what acupuncture can offer you, consider booking an appointment with us online at All Ways Well. 


Article written by Lana Preston

A study published by The National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health looked at the effects of acupuncture on the regulation of lipid and glucose metabolism in patients suffering from metabolic syndrome. The study followed 76 metabolic syndrome patients over a period of time and divided them into two groups. The first group received only conventional medical treatments/pharmaceuticals, while the second group received conventional medical treatments plus regular acupuncture treatments. The body mass index (BMI), blood lipid, blood glucose and comprehensive therapeutic effects were compared before and after treatment in both groups. The results revealed the group that received acupuncture plus conventional medical treatments had superior improvement over the group that only received conventional medical treatments. The subjects showed improvement in BMI, triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting insulin and insulin resistance index. This study provides strong evidence that acupuncture can greatly improve the health of patients suffering from metabolic disorders, when coupled with conventional medical treatments.

Metabolism is defined as the chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life. That’s not something that most people consciously think about. It just happens and we automatically assume it will happen, regardless of what we do on a daily basis. But this isn’t always the case. Some people are born with genetic defects that can mess with their metabolism. Others develop metabolic disorders over time from not taking proper care of themselves. Metabolic disorders can also be trauma induced. 

As with most health issues, conventional medicine typically treats metabolic issues with pharmaceuticals. For some this works very well. But there are always side effects with pharmaceuticals and the body can also develop a resistance to them over time. So when it comes to metabolic disorders, a natural approach is usually a better long term choice. This is where acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can be very beneficial.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), all disease occurs in the body due to either a lack, excess or blockage of energy. TCM treats these energy imbalances using a host of modalities, but acupuncture is the most commonly known and used. Most metabolic diseases are a result of an imbalance of hormones such as insulin, glucose and thyroid hormones. These three components are key to keeping the body functioning properly and can easily be thrown off. Too much stress, poor dietary habits and lack of exercise are all reasons why the body’s metabolism may not be functioning correctly.

Acupuncture has been shown to balance hormones when accompanied by lifestyle modifications. Acupuncture helps control food cravings, boosts metabolism, improves digestion and helps the liver function optimally. The liver produces chemicals that help break down fat, while filtering out toxins that can slow our body’s ability to digest and regulate. Excess stress can lead to a slower metabolism, an increase in body fat and poor sleep. Regular acupuncture treatments can help reduce stress

If you’re feeling tired or sluggish, put on some weight, or are dealing with stress and depression, acupuncture can definitely help. 

In a study conducted by researchers from the Physical Education Institute at Zhengzhou University, Traditional Chinese Medicine was investigated to see how it affected athletes suffering from motor impairment due to injury. Participants in the study suffered from limited range of motion in a number of joints, including the neck, upper and lower limbs. The researchers administered acupuncture and herbs, alone or in combination, to their different groups. The participants reported increased range of motion and decreased soreness after receiving treatment. Those who received herbs and acupuncture reported greater healing and relief, with a total effectiveness rate of 84.4 percent overall. This study shows the combination of acupuncture and herbs is highly effective for the treatment of physical mobility impairment caused by participating in sports. 

Sports injuries occur frequently from participating in organized sports, competitions or even backyard games. These injuries can range from minor to severe and they can occur for a multitude of reasons. 

Sports injuries are typically categorized as acute or chronic. An acute sports injury is usually one that involves a single blow or application of force, like being tackled.  Chronic sports injuries occur when an area is overused or abused for long periods of time. This can happen with sports like tennis, weight lifting, running, etc. Sprains and strains around joints tend to be the most common types of sports related injuries.

Most people who suffer from sports related injuries implement the use of R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevation) almost immediately after the injury occurs. And while all of these may be necessary in the beginning, using ice long-term is actually detrimental to the tissue because it impedes blood flow. This is where acupuncture can be very beneficial for treating sports injuries.

Many athletes, professional and amateur, are now utilizing acupuncture and some of the other modalities associated with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to help them heal more quickly. Acupuncture has a very successful history of treating sports related injuries and many professional teams now have licensed acupuncturists on staff. Using acupuncture to treat injuries has been around for centuries. It began with martial arts and it is still one of the primary means of healing used. 

Acupuncture can help reduce swelling, decrease pain, decrease inflammation and increase blood flow to the injured area. Recent studies, like the one above, show that acupuncture is very effective at treating sprains, strains, aches, pains, swollen muscles and even shin splints. And as an added bonus, regular acupuncture treatments can improve performance and give athletes a competitive edge.

There are many approaches to losing weight. Plans always include a healthy diet and lifestyle changes such as physical activity and smoking cessation. However, there are always new ways and advancements when it comes to weight loss, including medications.

While medications used to treat obesity or promote weight loss have been heard of since the 1800s, they have been gaining popularity recently, especially with a number of known celebrities talking about the newer medications. Several of these medications are available in the US, with some being recently approved in the past five years. Here are the commonly-prescribed medications and their actions:
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Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Wegovy is a type of prescription weight loss medication called a GLP-1 receptor agonist which helps suppress appetite. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic a naturally-occurring hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 or GLP-1. One role of GLP-1 is in controlling blood glucose, and semaglutide has been used for diabetes for years before being approved solely for weight loss under the brand Wegovy. Another brand which is more known is Ozempic, which is still prescribed for diabetic patients but has been sometimes used off-label for weight loss.

Liraglutide (Saxenda)

Diabetes is usually managed with medications along with lifestyle changes such as exercise and diet. Liraglutide is another GLP-1 agonist originally approved for diabetes. Liraglutide has been approved for weight management under the brand name Saxenda. Like semaglutide, liraglutide works by stimulating insulin release and lowering blood glucose, while delaying gastric emptying which helps increase and prolong satiety. Liraglutide is also available as Victoza, which is not approved for weight loss but for diabetes only.

Tirzepatide(Zepbound)

Tirzepatide, under the brand name Zepbound, was approved in 2023 for chronic weight management. Tirzepatide is also known as Mounjaro, which is approved to treat diabetes. Tirzepatide is a medication that acts on both glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. It suppresses appetite by slowing down stomach emptying and interacting with areas in the brain responsible for satiety.

Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira, and Suprenza)
Phentermine is one of the oldest medications used for weight loss. It belongs to a class of medications called anorectics or appetite suppressants. It stimulates the central nervous system which decreases your appetite and increases energy use. Phentermine is only approved for short-term use due to limited research on long-term effects. It should also be prescribed in combination with diet and lifestyle changes. Phentermine is a controlled substance because of the risk for dependence.

Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)

A master cleanse can be a good way to achieve rapid weight loss by cleansing the body and giving the digestive system a rest. Orlistat works as a sort of cleanse in how it affects digestion. It belongs to a group of medications called lipase inhibitors, and works by reducing the amount of dietary fats absorbed. It is an FDA-approved anti-obesity medication that is used with a low-calorie, low-fat diet and exercise program to help people lose weight.

Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave)

Contrave is a combination medication that consists of bupropion and naltrexone. Buproprion is an antidepressant that can decrease appetite, while naltrexone is an opioid antagonist which curbs hunger and food cravings. These target areas of the brain connected to cravings and hunger. This medication is available in tablet form.

Topiramate-Phentermine (Qsymia)

Qsymia is combination medication made up of phentermine, a medication similar to amphetamines, and topiramate, an anti-seizure medication. It works in the brain to reduce your appetite. Qsymia is available in extended-release capsule form. If less than 3% weight loss is seen after 3 months, it is recommended the medication be stopped.

These weight loss medications are prescribed by licensed medical providers only after a complete assessment. There are certain criteria to be met before being prescribed the medications, such as a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with obesity-related conditions such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes, and a failure to lose weight after an amount of time using lifestyle changes only. Prescription also requires an accompanying comprehensive plan for healthy eating and physical activity. These medications are not for everyone, and should only be used under the care of a doctor.

If you find one of these medications on your prescription list in order to achieve your health and wellness goals, know that Acupuncture can be a great addition to your program and will not negatively interact with any of these options! In fact balancing your Qi with Acupuncture can further support your body in achieving this new state of wellbeing, so don’t hesitate to book in today.

Your golden years are meant to be a time filled with relaxation and joy after decades of hard work. Unfortunately, many seniors find this stage of their lives bleak. In fact, the CDC reveals that up to 13.5% of people over the age of 65 experience depressive symptoms. This can manifest in different ways, including irritability, pessimism, fatigue, insomnia, chronic pain, and apathy—all of which can significantly hurt a person’s quality of life. 

Unfortunately, even if a senior can recognize that they need mental health care, it can be hard to give them the right treatment. Many seniors are uncomfortable talking about their emotions and thoughts, which is also why ICA Notes shares that diagnosis alone can be tricky. At the same time, because up to 95% of adults over 60 have at least one chronic condition, prescribing pharmaceutical interventions can be complicated. Thankfully, there are drug-free mental health interventions that can do wonders for you. Here are some of them:

Embrace companionship

According to a study by BMC Public Health, about 50% of all seniors aged 60 are at risk of loneliness. This is mostly because many seniors are empty-nesters, widows, or widowers. Without any regular interactions, humans are likely to feel anxious and detached. Sadly, bonding with others is easier said than done, as seniors may face mobility, financial, or health issues. To remedy this, look to technology. Video calling apps are great mediums to connect remotely. If you’re not sure how to work this, you can ask somebody to schedule these ahead of time, so you literally just have to press a button. If you can afford it, smart assistants like Alexa can do all these for you using voice commands. Alternatively, you may want to look into a robot companionship. Evidence suggests that robot pets can provide comfort and stimulation that can help seniors feel more content and joyful. At the same time, these can act as conversation starters that may lead to new and flourishing friendships with other people. Since robot pets don’t require the same level of care as real furry friends, they’re also more manageable in the long run. 

Invest in your wellness

For some seniors, there is a certain shame associated with self-care. This is likely a generational effect that comes from growing up in a time where pampering yourself was considered a rare treat amid a lot of hard work. In reality, though, there is nothing wrong with taking care of yourself, regardless of age. Holistic wellness practices like acupuncture can even relieve you in various facets of your health, like physically, mentally, and emotionally. Some of acupuncture’s benefits that can specifically aid mental health issues in older adults include regulating sleep and moods. This is because scientists believe that acupuncture can encourage the release of chemicals and hormones (such as endorphins) that can control the circadian rhythm and inhibit stress. For older adults, this can result in more stable emotions and better sleep hygiene, wherein the mind and body can rest and reset. Presently, studies from platforms like Medline and Blue Moon Senior Counseling say that up to 50% of all seniors complain about poor sleep, while up to 1 in 4 suffer from mood disorders.

Find new purpose with others

Finally, plenty of seniors struggle in life because they feel lost. This is understandable, considering many have come from years of working or caring for others. In comparison, retirement can suddenly feel empty. If this feeling is allowed to fester, it can color your time and make it feel meaningless. To prevent these dark thoughts from taking hold, find a new purpose outside of yourself. This is why local senior advocate groups recommend that older adults find volunteer match opportunities. In these, seniors work with non-profit organizations to find the volunteering effort that best suits them. This means they'll account for your own interests, location, lifestyle, and capabilities. If you cannot physically volunteer, there are also online versions, like tutoring and mentoring programs. By volunteering, you’re uplifting not only your life but also the lives of those around you. Interestingly, a recent Reuters post even revealed that seniors who feel like they have a purpose live longer and happier lives. 

Article written by: Lana Preston

In our ongoing pursuit of optimal health and well-being, it is crucial to pay attention to our immune system. The immune system serves as our body's defense mechanism, protecting us from external pathogens and internal imbalances. Acupuncture, a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, offers a holistic approach to support and strengthen the immune system. In this article, we will delve into the concept of Wei Qi, discuss how acupuncture can enhance immune function, and provide self-care suggestions for promoting a resilient immune system.

Understanding Wei Qi and the Immune System:
According to Chinese medicine, Wei Qi is a vital aspect of our immune system. Wei Qi refers to the body's protective energy, which forms a barrier against external pathogens. It circulates on the surface of the body, guarding us from invading pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and allergens. When our Wei Qi is strong and balanced, we are better equipped to resist illnesses and maintain optimal health.

Acupuncture works by restoring the balance of energy within the body, including strengthening the Wei Qi and supporting immune function. Here are some ways acupuncture can help enhance your immune system:

• Regulating Immune Response:

Acupuncture has been shown to regulate immune responses by modulating the activity of immune cells and promoting a balanced immune reaction. It can help calm overactive immune responses in conditions such as allergies, autoimmune disorders, and chronic inflammation.

• Boosting White Blood Cells:

Acupuncture has been found to increase the production of white blood cells, including T-cells and natural killer cells, which play key roles in immune defense. By boosting the activity of these cells, acupuncture strengthens the body's ability to fight off infections and diseases.

• Enhancing Energy Flow:

Acupuncture stimulates specific points along energy pathways, known as meridians, to promote the smooth flow of Qi. By improving energy circulation, acupuncture helps to nourish the organs involved in immune function, such as the spleen and lungs, fostering a robust immune response.

Self-Care Practices to Support Your Immune System:
In addition to acupuncture treatments, incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine can further strengthen your immune system. Here are a few suggestions:

• Prioritize Quality Sleep:

Adequate sleep is vital for immune health. Aim for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night to allow your body to recharge and regenerate. Establish a bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and consider acupuncture to address any sleep disruptions.

•  Manage Stress Levels:

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system. Incorporate stress-management techniques into your routine, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or tai chi. Acupuncture can also help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

• Balanced Nutrition:

Maintain a balanced diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods to provide your body with essential nutrients. Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Consult with an acupuncturist for dietary recommendations that support immune health based on your individual constitution.

• Regular Exercise:

Engage in moderate exercise regularly to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and support immune function. Find activities you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or dancing, and incorporate them into your routine. Remember to listen to your body and consult with your acupuncturist for exercise recommendations.
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• Prioritize Self-Care:

Make time for activities that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and nurture your overall well-being. This may include reading, spending time in nature, practicing hobbies, or enjoying quality time with loved ones.
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