A Beginner’s Guide to Acupuncture

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Many people do not understand the healing benefits of acupuncture. In some ways acupuncture is fascinating. Fine needles inserted into the body to stimulate healing? The typical western health model may leave someone scratching there heads at that mode of treatment.

However, when you get a basic understanding of this treatment, you will understand how beneficial it can to get fine needles inserted into your body, with the help of professionals only.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves the insertion of fine, stainless steel, sterile needles into specific points of your body. These points are known as acupuncture points and they are located in 12 main meridians that are connected to different organs in your body. By doing this, energy is released from these organs so you can heal.

What Did The Ancients Use During Acupuncture Treatment?

In the ancient times, instead of using fine needles, sharp bones and stones were used. Even when simple surgeries had to be done, these instruments were used. However as time has gone by, medicine evolved as well. There was invention of gold, bronze and silver needles were made and then finally stainless steel needles (used today). However, there are some acupuncturists who used golden needles.

The Physiological Effects of Acupuncture

  • It promotes blood circulation
  • It releases endorphins and neurotransmitters in your body
  • It stimulates the fibers of nerves
  • It also releases serotonin in the body
  • It releases adrenocorticotropic hormone in your body
  • It lessen inflammations
  • It reduces stress
  • It tends to relax contracted/shortened muscles
  • It restores the homeostasis in the body

Is Acupuncture A Form of Therapy?

Yes, it is, but keep in mind it is not magic. Depending on the condition, you have and if it is acute or chronic, the longevity of the treatment is decided. When the condition is chronic, it will take longer to treat, but when it is acute, it might take 2 to 3 sessions.

Most of the times, acupuncture is done so an individual’s body systems can be strengthened, but the sessions must be attended regularly. Moreover, when someone starts getting regular acupuncture treatments, there will be a change in diet, lifestyle, thought patterns, exercise, etc.

Who can benefit from acupuncture?

Everyone, whether you are a child, pregnant female, a pro-athlete, an elderly, strong or weak person, you can gain the benefits of acupuncture.

Conditions That Can Be Treated By Acupuncture

According to the World Health Organization, many people suffering from diseases and conditions can experience benefits of acupuncture :

  • Acute and chronic gastritis
  • Sprains
  • Sciatica
  • Depression
  • Correction of malposition of fetus
  • Neck pain
  • Tennis elbow
  • Dental pain
  • Low back pain
  • Temporomandibular (TMJ) dysfunction
  • Headache
  • Induction of labor
  • Morning sickness
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Stroke
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Allergic rhinitis, including hay fever
  • Postoperative pain
  • Adverse reactions to radiation or chemotherapy

 

Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has qualified registered massage therapists on staff. Give our clinic a call at 780-455-2112 to book your appointment today.

The 4 Most Common Massage Therapies

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In recent times, massage therapies have become more and more popular and loved. The reason for this is obvious; massages are known to provide every individuals with comfort and relaxation. Although, there are many different types of massages available, here are the massages that are most loved by the majority of people.

1.     Swedish Massage

This is the most popular kind of massage therapies available at wellness centers, spas, gyms, and clinics. The main goal of this massage is to use long strokes that focus on healing certain areas of your body. The 5 basic strokes in this massage are petrissage (rolling, kneading, lifting), friction (small circular motions), vibration (shaking and rocking movements), effleurage (smooth long strokes), and tapotement (percussion). This massage is the ideal option for those that want to release all tensions from their bodies

2.     Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage is a modification of the Swedish massage that infuses massage oil with essential oils. Essential oils are derived from plant parts or flowers and are known to have healing powers. For example, the lavender and rose oils are known for their relaxation ability. Although every single one of the oils have their own unique properties, there is a chance that your masseuse has pre-blended an oil blend for you to provide you with ultimate energy, and relaxation so you can be uplifted.

3.     Deep Tissue Massage

Just like its name, the main target of this massage is to go into the deep layers of your muscle and connective tissues so all the muscle knots can be undone. Your masseuse will be using slow strokes or friction directly on top of your muscles. This way the relaxation will be focusing on any tight/painful muscles, postural issues, injuries, or repetitive strain. The pressure used in this massage is more intense as compared to the Swedish massage, but it is not painful. The best candidates for this massage would be those that have chronic pain, injuries, or those that have troubles moving.

4.     Hot Stone Massage

Your masseuse will place smooth, warm stones on the painful areas of your body and he/she will hold the stones while you are being massaged. The stones used in this massage are basalt (this is a “volcanic rock” that preserves heat). The warmth these stones give off have the ability to loosen your tighten muscles so the masseuse can massage on them for ultimate comfort.

However, if you have any health issues like diabetes, varicose veins, high blood pressure, or a heart disease, you need to talk to your doctor before opting for this massage. Similarly, if you are on medication that is thinning your blood, consult your doctor.

Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has qualified registered massage therapists, offering varies types of massage therapies on staff. Give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 to get started today.

6 Things to Know About Acupuncture

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Over the years, acupuncture has become more and more popular because individuals see it as an alternative to western medicine. However, even now, many people do not know what to expect when they go in for their first visit.

Although, there are different techniques and styles of acupuncture,  there are the common tips to know about acupuncture.

1) It Will Be Treating More Than Just Pain

According to acupuncturists, patients must not skip sessions because they are feeling sick. Acupuncture not only aids with stomach viruses and common colds, but it can help with emotional and mental stress, skin diseases, dentistry, gout, cancer, neurological disorders, and infections, according to the World Health Organization.

2) Do Not Go On an Empty Stomach

It is important to have a –somewhat- full stomach before going in for your treatment. It is not important to indulge in a big meal, but your body just needs something that will energize you so you can get maximum benefits. If you get acupuncture on an empty stomach, it could lead to fainting, lightheadedness, and even dizziness.

3) You Will Not Need To Take Your Clothes Off

Sometimes, acupuncturists will need to be able to reach under your clothes, but if that needs to happen, they will put a covering on you so only some of your skin is exposed. You must keep in mind that wearing loose clothes is recommended so your sleeves or pants can be rolled up easily.

4) You Will Need to Get Your Pulse Check, Show Your Tongue, and Get an Abdomen Press

Since acupuncturists want to provide you with maximum benefits, they will want to see the “state of your internal organs.” These methods allow them to determine the ideal treatment for you. Similar to reflexology on your feet and hands, your pulse, the different parts of your tongue and abdomen have connections with the organs and systems within your body.

5) Be Prepared For Embarrassing Questions

For a thorough physical examination, the acupuncturist will ask you questions related to your lifestyle and health. Most of the time, the common questions will ask you for detailed answers related to your urination, bowel movements, and menstruation (for females). The more details you go in, the better the diagnosis will be.

6) Acupuncturists Use Tools Other than Needles Also

Needles are the main tool used during acupuncture, but acupuncturists have started looking for more tools that fall under the “Chinese Medicine” category. This includes Tuina (massage), cupping (suction of your skin), Chinese herbs, acupressure (using pressure on acupuncture points instead of needles), Guasha (scraping the skin), Moxibustion (heating the skin), or Qi Gong.

These are the top six things you must know when you are going to get acupuncture done. Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has excellent acupuncturists on staff. Check out our website @ schroeder.wpengine.com or give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 to get started.

Does Massage Even Work?

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Before getting a massage, people usually wonder “does massage even work?” We leave the final decision up to you, but it is true that massage therapy has endless benefits.

The most common benefits are mentioned below:

Alleviates Stress

Whether you are getting a sports massage or a relaxation massage, your stress levels will be lower for longer periods.  This will benefit you thru increased energy levels will, less pain, and enhanced physical/emotional moods.

Intensive Muscle Relaxation

The main goal of massage therapy is to focus on the areas of your body that are aching. This will relieve tension from those muscles, improve your flexibility and provide  relaxation to your entire body.

Massage therapy is also known to release endorphins into your body, which leads to a boost in the serotonin and dopamine levels in your body. These beneficial hormones help your body emotionally and physically. While they deal with pain management and they promote healing, they will definitely calm your nerves.

Better Circulation

The long-term benefits of massage therapy should never be underestimated. Those who get massage therapy consistently will benefit from better blood circulation. The reason why better circulation is so important is because rich blood heals the tense, stiff, and damaged muscles.

Relieving muscle tensions improves blood circulation to your injured or affected muscles. This way, there is more oxygen and nutrients getting to your damaged tissues. When there is “increased activity” in these affected areas, there is less swelling and stiffness in your joints and muscles.

To get started with your massage, give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 or check out our website @ schroeder.wpengine.com.