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Acupuncture for Anxiety: A Natural Approach to Mental Well-Being

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Understanding Anxiety and Its Impact

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It can manifest in different ways, including excessive worry, restlessness, and panic attacks. While there are various conventional treatments available, some individuals seek complementary and alternative medicine to improve their anxiety symptoms. One such treatment that has gained popularity in recent years is acupuncture for anxiety, coupled with traditional Chinese medicine. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine in Edmonton for individuals suffering from anxiety.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety with Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of fine needles at specific points on the skin to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities. It is believed that this form of treatment can adjust the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, release neurotransmitters such as endorphins, and regulate cortisol levels in the body, reducing stress levels.

According to a study conducted by the University of York, England, acupuncture may help reduce anxiety symptoms. In this randomized controlled trial, patients with moderate to severe anxiety received ten sessions over a twelve-week period. The results demonstrated that patients receiving traditional acupuncture experienced a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to the control group. Another study conducted by researchers from Kyung-Hee University in Korea found that acupuncture treatment can activate the hippocampus and the amygdala, two areas of the brain linked to regulating this response to stress.

Boosting Well-Being Through Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture’s ability to balance energy flow within the body is one of the essential principles of traditional Chinese medicine. The harmonious flow of energy can help increase an individual’s sense of well-being and mental clarity while reducing anxiety symptoms. Additionally, traditional Chinese medicine recognizes that anxiety may have different underlying causes, such as weak digestive function and liver qi stagnation.

In one systematic review conducted by the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, researchers stated that traditional Chinese medicine could improve anxiety and depression symptoms. This review examined various studies on anxiety and depression research between 1990 and 2009. The findings indicated that traditional Chinese medicine, such as herbal remedies, acupuncture, and Qigong, may be beneficial in treating anxiety disorders.

Why Consider Acupuncture for Anxiety?

Acupuncture, coupled with traditional Chinese medicine, has a significant role in treating individuals with anxiety. Studies show that acupuncture for anxiety can reduce symptoms while also promoting overall well-being. This type of care balances the body’s energy flow to achieve a state of equilibrium between the mind and body, while traditional Chinese medicine targets the root cause of anxiety.

If you’re experiencing anxiety symptoms and inclined towards exploring alternative medicine, considering acupuncture for anxiety may be the right step in alleviating your symptoms. Give us a call at 780-455-2112 to get started. Check out our office at ocwc.ca.

How Acupuncture Affects Melatonin

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Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. One of the key ways in which acupuncture can help improve sleep quality is by regulating melatonin production, a hormone that plays a crucial role in the sleep-wake cycle. In this blog post, we will how acupuncture influences melatonin levels to enhance sleep quality, ultimately leading to better rest and overall well-being.

Understanding Melatonin and Its Role in Sleep

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness, signaling the body that it is time to sleep. Low levels of melatonin can result in difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue. Acupuncture can help regulate production by targeting specific acupoints related to the pineal gland and circadian rhythms.

The Link Between Acupuncture and Melatonin Production

Studies have shown that acupuncture can increase melatonin levels in the body, promoting more consistent and restful sleep patterns. A study published in the Journal of Neuropsychiatry & Clinical Neurosciences found that acupuncture treatment led to a increase in levels in patients with insomnia. The researchers observed improvements in sleep latency, duration, and overall sleep quality following acupuncture.

Scientific Research on Acupuncture and Sleep Quality

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific acupoints along energy pathways, known asidians, to rebalance the body’s energy flow and promote overall health. By targeting acupoints related to the pineal gland, acupuncturists can regulate melatonin production and support a healthy sleep-wake cycle. This can lead to more restorative sleep, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive.

Additional Benefits of Acupuncture for Sleep and Well-Being

In addition to increasing melatonin levels, acupuncture can also help reduce stress and anxiety, two common factors that can interfere with the body’s natural sleep patterns. By promoting relaxation and reducing tension, acupuncture can create a more conducive environment for sleep, allowing individuals to fall asleep more easily and stay asleep throughout the night.

Incorporating Acupuncture into Your Sleep Routine

Overall, ability to regulate melatonin levels can have a profound impact on sleep quality and overall well-being. By addressing imbalances in melatonin production and promoting relaxation, acupuncture can help individuals achieve better sleep patterns and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. If you’re struggling with sleep issues due to low melatonin levels, consider incorporating acupuncture into your wellness routine to experience the transformative benefits of better sleep.

To learn more about acupuncture in Edmonton, check out our clinic @ ocwc.ca.

Better Sleep With Acupuncture

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How Acupuncture Supports Sleep

Acupuncture has long been recognized as a potent healing modality in traditional Chinese medicine, with a wide range of benefits extending beyond pain relief to include improvements in sleep quality. One of the key ways in which acupuncture can help enhance better rest quality is through its ability to regulate hormone production. In this blog post, we will explore how acupuncture influences hormone activity in the body to promote better rest @ night.

The Role of Melatonin

Melatonin, often referred to as the “sleep hormone,” plays a crucial role in regulating our sleep-wake cycle. hormone is produced by the pineal gland in to darkness, signaling to the body that it’s time to rest. However, disruptions in melatonin production can lead to difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep. Acupuncture has been shown to help melatonin levels, thereby promoting more consistent and restful patterns. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to the pineal gland and circadian rhythms, acupuncturists can stimulate the production of melatonin, leading to improved quality of rest.

Managing Cortisol

Cortisol, known as the stress hormone,” plays a significant role in our body’s response to stress and anxiety. Elevated cortisol levels, especially in the evening, can disrupt sleep and lead to poor quality of rest. Acupuncture has been found to lower cortisol levels by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the “rest and digest” mode. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, acupuncture can help to regulate cortisol production, creating a more conducive environment for restful nights.

The Connection Between Acupuncture and Serotonin

Another hormone that acupuncture can influence is serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good hormone.” Serotonin plays a vital role in mood regulation, anxiety reduction, and overall well-being. Acupuncture has been shown to increase serotonin levels, leading to a sense of calm and relaxation that can improve sleep quality. By targeting specific acupuncture points related to serotonin production, acupuncturists can help balance this hormone, enhancing quality rest and promoting a sense of relaxation.

Scientific Research on Acupuncture for Better Sleep

Research studies support the benefits of acupuncture in regulating hormones to improve quality of rest. A study published in the Journal of Sleep Medicine and Disorders found that acupuncture significantly increased melatonin levels in patients with insomnia, leading to improvements in sleep latency and duration. Another study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research demonstrated that acupuncture reduced cortisol levels and improved sleep quality in individuals with anxiety-related disturbances.

Incorporating Acupuncture into Your Sleep Routine

Acupuncture’s ability to regulate hormone activity, including melatonin, cortisol, and serotonin, can play a vital role in improving sleep quality. By addressing hormonal imbalances and promoting relaxation, acupuncture can help individuals achieve better patterns and overall well-being. If you’re struggling with the above issues, consider incorporating acupuncture into your wellness routine to experience the transformative benefits of a good night’s rest.

Reduce Puffiness Naturally with Facial Acupuncture

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Facial Acupuncture: A Natural Way to Reduce Puffiness and Inflammation

If you’ve been waking up with a puffy face or struggling with facial swelling, you’re not alone. Many people deal with puffiness due to stress, lack of sleep, poor diet, or even changes in weather. While skincare products can help, more people are turning to natural methods like facial acupuncture to reduce puffiness and calm inflammation.

So, what is facial acupuncture—and how does it help reduce puffiness?

What Is Facial Acupuncture?

Facial acupuncture is a type of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that uses very fine needles on the face to improve circulation, stimulate collagen, and support overall skin health. Unlike Botox or fillers, it’s a natural approach that works with your body rather than against it.

It’s not just about beauty—facial acupuncture can also help reduce puffiness, improve skin tone, and ease tension in your face and jaw.

How Facial Acupuncture Helps Reduce Puffiness

Facial puffiness is often caused by poor circulation or lymphatic buildup. Lymph is a fluid in your body that helps remove waste, but when it gets stuck, it can cause swelling—especially around the eyes, cheeks, and jawline.

Facial acupuncture helps reduce puffiness by:

  • Boosting blood flow: Needles encourage healthy circulation, which can reduce inflammation and help fluid drain more effectively.
  • Stimulating the lymphatic system: Acupuncture helps move stuck lymphatic fluid, clearing puffiness and bringing your natural glow back.
  • Balancing the body: TCM looks at your whole system. By treating deeper issues like stress, poor digestion, or hormone imbalance, facial acupuncture helps reduce puffiness from the inside out.

What to Expect During a Session

A facial acupuncture session is relaxing and gentle. You’ll lie down while a licensed practitioner places thin needles at specific points on your face—and sometimes your hands, feet, or body for balance. Most people feel calm or even sleepy during treatment.

Sessions usually last 45 minutes to an hour, and many people notice an improvement in how their skin looks and feels after just one visit. For long-term results, a series of treatments is often recommended.

Other Benefits Beyond Reduce Puffiness

While facial acupuncture is great to reduce puffiness, it also offers extra perks:

  • Tighter, more toned skin
  • Reduced fine lines
  • Fewer breakouts
  • Less jaw tension or teeth grinding
  • Improved sleep and mood

Because it works with your body’s natural healing process, facial acupuncture is a safe and non-toxic way to feel and look refreshed.

Combine It with Healthy Habits

Facial acupuncture works best when combined with healthy lifestyle habits. Here are a few tips to help reduce puffiness at home:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Eat less salt and processed foods: These can cause water retention.
  • Get good sleep: Rest helps your body repair and reduce inflammation.
  • Gently massage your face: A light face massage can move lymphatic fluid and reduce puffiness naturally.

Is Facial Acupuncture Right for You?

If you’re looking for a natural way to reduce puffiness and improve your skin health without chemicals or invasive procedures, facial acupuncture could be a great fit. It’s safe for most people and can be tailored to your unique skin and health needs.

Always look for a licensed practitioner with experience in facial acupuncture to get the best results.

In Summary

Facial acupuncture is more than a beauty trend—it’s a natural way to reduce puffiness, support your skin’s health, and feel your best. Whether you’re dealing with morning puffiness or looking for a glow-up without harsh treatments, this gentle and effective option might be just what you need.

Facial Acupuncture

Facial Acupuncture vs Botox: What’s Better for Your Skin?

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In today’s world, many people are searching for natural ways to care for their skin. One method that’s gaining more attention is facial acupuncture. It’s not new—it’s been around for centuries. But more and more people are choosing it over medical treatments like Botox, fillers, or surgery. Why? Because facial acupuncture offers a gentle, holistic approach to beauty and skin health.

In this blog, we’ll explore why you might want to choose form of treatment instead of medical treatments. We’ll cover how it works, what the benefits are, and why more people are turning to this ancient practice for modern results.

What Is Facial Acupuncture?

Facial acupuncture is a treatment that comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It uses very thin needles, carefully placed on the face and sometimes other parts of the body. These needles help increase blood flow, stimulate collagen, and improve energy flow (also called “Qi”).

Unlike Botox or fillers, facial acupuncture doesn’t freeze your face or add anything under your skin. Instead, it encourages your body to heal and refresh itself.

➡️ Evidence for Effectiveness:
A study published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies showed that acupuncture improves skin elasticity and hydration levels. [Source]

Another clinical review found that cosmetic acupuncture may have positive effects on facial muscle tone and skin appearance with minimal risk. [Source]

Why Choose Facial Acupuncture?

✅ 1. It’s Natural

One of the biggest reasons people choose facial acupuncture is because it’s natural. You don’t have to worry about chemicals, synthetic fillers, or surgical risks. The treatment supports your body’s own healing process.

🌿 2. It Improves Overall Wellness

The focus isn’t just on your face. Practitioners also look at your whole-body health. They may place needles in areas that affect digestion, stress, or sleep—all of which play a big role in how your skin looks.

⚠️ 3. Fewer Side Effects

Botox, fillers, and surgery come with possible side effects—bruising, swelling, infection, or even long-term changes in how your face moves.

➡️ FDA Warning & Medical Reports:
Botulinum toxin (Botox) can cause side effects such as headache, drooping eyelids, and flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, more serious effects like difficulty breathing may occur. [FDA Source]

A review published in Dermatologic Surgery found that although dermal fillers are generally safe, they may cause lumps, skin discoloration, or even vascular complications. [Source]

🔄 4. Long-Lasting Results

While it may take a few sessions to see big changes, facial acupuncture helps your skin improve over time. It boosts collagen and improves circulation, meaning your skin gets healthier from the inside. The results are subtle, natural, and longer-lasting.

How Does It Compare to Medical Treatments?

FeatureFacial AcupunctureMedical Treatments
Natural?✅ Yes❌ Often chemical or synthetic
Side Effects✅ Few, mild❌ Risk of bruising, drooping, infection
Treats Whole Body✅ Yes❌ No
Long-Term Health Benefits✅ Yes❌ No
Results✅ Gradual, natural-looking❌ Quick but temporary
Maintenance✅ Ongoing but gentle❌ Frequent repeat treatments

Who Is Facial Acupuncture Good For?

Facial acupuncture is great for people of all ages. Whether you’re starting to see fine lines or you just want to keep your skin glowing, this treatment can help. It’s also a good choice if you:

  • Want a natural, non-invasive option
  • Feel nervous about surgery or injections
  • Struggle with dryness, puffiness, or dull skin
  • Want to address sleep, stress, or digestion (which affect your skin)

What to Expect in a Session

During a facial acupuncture session, your practitioner will first talk to you about your health and goals. Then they’ll gently place tiny needles on your face and body. You’ll relax for about 30–45 minutes. Many people even fall asleep!

Most people begin to see results after 4–6 sessions. Your skin may look brighter, feel firmer, and have a healthy glow. You may also feel more relaxed and balanced.

Is Facial Acupuncture Right for You?

Choosing between acupuncture and medical treatments is personal. But if you’re looking for a safe, natural way to care for your skin—and your whole body—it’s worth giving facial acupuncture a try. It may not offer instant results like Botox, but it supports long-term wellness, beauty, and balance.

More people are discovering that facial acupuncture isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good, too. Check out our office here. Or call 780-455-2112 for more info.

Anxiety Support with Acupuncture

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It’s no secret that anxiety affects many individuals worldwide. Symptoms of anxiety can be numerous, including restlessness, panic attacks, excessive worry, and more. While conventional treatments like medication and cognitive behavioral therapy are typically the first line of defense against the condition. Alternative and complementary therapies like acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine have been found to offer significant benefits. In this blog post, we’ll explore the ways that acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine can help individuals suffering from anxiety. 

Acupuncture Helps to Alleviate Anxiety Symptoms 

Acupuncture, has been found to be an effective complementary therapy for anxiety. The ancient Chinese practice involves the insertion of thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture helps to balance the flow of energy, or qi, within the body, which can soothe symptoms. Studies have shown that acupuncture can help alleviate symptoms. For example, a 2013 study published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies found that acupuncture helped to decrease levels in patients with generalized anxiety disorder. Similarly, a 2018 study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine found that acupuncture helped to reduce anxiety symptoms in cancer patients. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine Offers a Holistic Approach 

Traditional Chinese medicine is a holistic system of healing. It that includes various practices, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and more. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners believe that anxiety results from an imbalance in the body, often involving the liver and spleen. Through various modalities, traditional Chinese medicine aims to treat the root cause rather than just its symptoms. Chinese herbal medicine can be used to support liver function and promote relaxation. While dietary therapy can help to address deficiencies that may be exacerbating. 

Both Modalities Can Be Used Together 

What’s interesting about acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine is that they often work best when used together. By using both modalities, individuals can benefit from acupuncture’s targeted approach to addressing symptoms while also addressing underlying imbalances through traditional Chinese medicine practices like herbal medicine and dietary therapy. 

Anxiety can be a challenging condition to live with, but acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine offer hope for individuals seeking alternative and complementary therapies. While it’s always important to consult with medical professionals and mental health experts regarding treatment options, acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive anxiety management plan.

With their combined efforts, individuals suffering from anxiety can experience greater overall health and wellbeing. Call us @ 780-455-2112. Check out our office @ ocwc.ca. 

Scared of Acupuncture Needles?

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Acupuncture, an ancient healing art originating from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has gained significant popularity in recent years for its holistic approach to health and wellness. However, for individuals who are scared of needles, the mere thought of acupuncture can evoke feelings of anxiety and fear. Despite this apprehension, it’s essential to understand that acupuncture offers a plethora of benefits that can outweigh the fear of needles. Let’s explore how acupuncture can be a valuable therapy even for those with needle phobia.

Scared of Needles Hurting

First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin, about the diameter of a human hair. Unlike the hypodermic needles used for injections or blood draws, acupuncture needles are designed to be virtually painless when inserted correctly. Many people who are initially fearful of needles find that the sensation of acupuncture is far less uncomfortable than they anticipated.

One of the primary benefits of acupuncture is its ability to promote relaxation and stress relief. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body, known as acupoints, which correspond to channels of energy flow. This stimulation helps to rebalance the body’s energy, or qi, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. For individuals dealing with anxiety or stress, acupuncture can offer a natural and effective way to unwind and restore balance to both the body and mind.

Furthermore, acupuncture has been shown to alleviate a wide range of physical ailments and conditions. From chronic pain and headaches to digestive issues and insomnia, acupuncture can provide relief for numerous health concerns. By targeting specific acupoints related to the individual’s symptoms, acupuncture can help to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

Overcoming being Scared of Needles

For individuals with needle phobia, it’s essential to communicate openly with an acupuncturist about your concerns. A skilled practitioner will take the time to address your fears and ensure that you feel comfortable and supported throughout the treatment process. Many acupuncturists are trained in techniques to help ease anxiety, such as gentle insertion methods and providing a calming environment.

In addition to its physical benefits, acupuncture can also have profound effects on mental and emotional well-being. Research has shown that acupuncture can help to regulate neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a key role in mood regulation. By promoting a healthy balance of these neurotransmitters, acupuncture can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, improving overall mental health and emotional resilience.

Benefits of Acupuncture

Another advantage of acupuncture is its minimal side effects compared to conventional medications or treatments. While pharmaceutical drugs often come with a laundry list of potential side effects, acupuncture is a safe and natural therapy with minimal risk. This makes it an attractive option for individuals who may be wary of the potential risks associated with medications or invasive procedures.

Moreover, acupuncture is a highly customizable treatment that can be tailored to suit each individual’s unique needs. Whether you’re seeking relief from a specific health issue or simply looking to maintain overall wellness, an experienced acupuncturist can create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and goals.

While the fear of needles may initially deter some individuals from trying acupuncture, the potential benefits of this ancient healing art are vast. From pain relief and stress reduction to improved mental and emotional well-being, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to health that can benefit people of all ages and backgrounds. 

By working with a skilled and compassionate acupuncturist, even those with needle phobia can experience the transformative effects of acupuncture and embark on a journey towards greater health and vitality.

To learn more about our clinic click here. To book an appointment, give us a call @ 780-455-2112.

Improve Stomach Aches with Acupuncture

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Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine benefits can be far reaching. Improving digestive disorders in order to improve stomach aches is one of acupuncture and TCM’s many benfits. But how? How can your acupunturist improve stomach aches? Your acupuncturist understands your bodies many meridian points. Today we are going to focus on just one of those points, ST25- Stomach 25 (Tianshu).

Where is ST25- Stomach 25?

This acupuncture point is found on the abdomen, two finger breadths lateral (and directly in line) to the belly button. It is often nicknamed the “Pepto Bismol point” since it is said to be the single most important point for the treatment of the widest variety of intestinal disorders.

Importance of ST25- Stomach 25 (Tianshu)

This point is where “the Qi (or energy) of the large intestines gathers and concentrates on the anterior surface of the body.” In other words, by accessing this point or any acupoint, we can communicate with the organs and body’s processes. We use this point for stomach aches caused by bloating, nausea & vomiting, undigested food in the stool, poor appetite, abdominal pain, and even abdominal masses such as intestinal abscess or uterine masses.

When ST25- Stomach 25 is stimulated, the effects are so fast acting that often a few minutes after needle insertion patients report feeling changes in their digestive tract motility.

If you would like to talk more about how acupuncture can help you with these or similar concerns contact us at info@ocwc.ca or 780-455-2112. To learn more about our office check out our office @ ocwc.ca.
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Improve Your Digestion with Acupuncture

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Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offer a wide range of benefits, including improving digestion and managing digestive disorders. But how does it work? How can your acupuncturist help enhance digestion? The key lies in understanding the body’s meridian points. Today, we’ll explore one powerful point: ST36, also known as Stomach 36.

What is ST36 – Stomach 36?
ST36, or Zusanli, is one of the most versatile acupuncture points. It’s commonly included in treatment plans due to its ability to support overall health and longevity. This point is especially effective for improving digestion and addressing digestive issues like IBS, Crohn’s disease, nausea, vomiting, and general GI discomfort. In addition, ST36 helps boost energy levels and combat fatigue, making it an excellent option for individuals with weakened immune systems.

Where is ST36 Located?
You can find ST36 one hand-width below the kneecap, on the outer side of the leg, and one finger-width from the shinbone. Because of its location near the knee, this point is also frequently used to treat knee injuries or pain.

Ready to Improve Your Digestion?
Curious about how acupuncture can help with digestion or other health concerns? Contact us at info@ocwc.ca or call 780-455-2112. We are currently accepting new patients! Visit our website at www.ocwc.ca for more information.

Pericardium 7

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How does acupuncture work? It’s really quite fascinating.

Point Feature: PC7- Pericardium 7 (Daling)

This point is a dual action point in that it’s great for treating both mental and physical concerns. Firstly, it is the key point to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The location of the needle is on the palmar side of the wrist directly at the wrist crease. When needling for carpal tunnel issues, you needle directly into the carpal sheath (towards the palm of the hand) which is the source of pain and inflammation in carpal tunnel syndrome. The relief with carpal tunnel is so significant that many patients who had previously been scheduled for surgery to cut the sheath have fully recovered after a series of acupuncture treatments! In terms of addressing mental health concerns with PC7, this point is used in combination with other points to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. It is especially helpful if you have palpitations and tightness in the chest triggered by stress/anxiety.

If you would like to talk more about how acupuncture can help you with these or similar concerns contact us at info@ocwc.ca or 780-455-2112