Yunker Acupuncture - New York City

Some thoughts on inertia and healing, Part 2

2014-09-12T11:48:00.001-04:00

In my last post, I talked about some easy ways to make healthy changes in your life by taking small steps. The idea is to start something big in a small way because an object in motion stays in motion. We can apply this idea to healthy eating, exercise... and healing with acupuncture!

How does this idea apply to acupuncture and feeling better? Here are some examples of things my patients often say to me:

I just needed to take the first step towards solving this problem, so I looked for an acupuncturist.
I figured that since I'm going to acupuncture to get better, I may as well eat better and exercise, too!
I just started therapy / physical therapy / medication, and I wanted to do something else to help things along.

...and perhaps most importantly:

I feel like each time I come here, I feel even better than the last time!

These are all great examples of how deciding to use acupuncture can really get you started towards feeling better. The last one is especially relevant because in most cases of chronic illness or pain, there is a cumulative effect with acupuncture. What this means in practice is that a patient might notice a subtle difference in their condition after the first treatment, and then a slightly bigger difference that lasts longer after the second treatment, followed by an even longer period of relief after the third visit, as so on. In this case, the object in motion that stays in motion is your body's ability to heal!

In fact, one of the main reasons that acupuncture works so well is that it helps move qi (energy) and blood through all the meridians of your body. One of the first things we learn as acupuncturists is that disease arises when qi and blood stop moving easily and smoothly (in other words, circulation isn't as good as it could be). In order for your body to maintain optimal health, your qi and blood have to be in motion. And they have to stay in motion. Acupuncture is really helpful for improving circulation and this alone can greatly improve pain symptoms, menstrual disorders, symptoms of depression, digestive problems, and many chronic illnesses.

Once you make the decision to start moving, whether it's with acupuncture, exercise, therapy, or food choices, you'll probably find that it's easier to stay in motion. After all, it's always easier to continue something once you've gotten the momentum!

Some thoughts on inertia and healing, Part 1

2014-09-05T13:52:00.001-04:00

I recently read a rather elegant blog post about the physics of productivity, which discussed (in simple, non-scientist terms) the idea that objects in motion tend to stay in motion, and how this applies to procrastination and getting things done. The author of this blog, James Clear, talked about the idea that once you get started with a task or activity, it's not so difficult to keep going; it's the act of actually getting started that is difficult for most of us. He suggests using a 2-minute task that sets you on your way toward completing the larger goal. For example, if you want to go for a run, but are having a hard time getting out the door, just start by putting on your sneakers - this is likely to motivate you towards taking the next step and actually leaving the house!

This post made me think about examples in healthcare and wellness in general, and in my acupuncture practice in particular. I wanted to think of other examples that could help regular people (like me!) who sometimes struggle to get started (like me!) accomplish more of the things they want and need to do. Some of the ideas I came up with:

If you want to get some exercise (any type), set your timer for 2 minutes and just start. Doing something for 2 minutes doesn't seem that daunting, and once you get started, you probably won't want to stop. I used this method last week when I wanted to do a hula hoop workout but felt really tired (it's a simple and fun way to exercise, but I was REALLY tired!). Once the music started and I got into the rhythm, I barely even noticed that the alarm went off after 2 minutes because by then, I was totally into it - the object in motion that stayed in motion was me!
If you want to eat healthier lunches during your workday, but it's just SO much easier to get lunch from the takeout places near your office, start by bringing one homemade snack to work. This doesn't have to be a Big Thing - you could just make a PB&J sandwich and start with that. You might find that the convenience and savings of bringing your own food to work quickly motivates you to pack up leftovers from last night's dinner. Once you do this a few times, it will be easier to keep doing it in the future.
Maybe you have read about all the benefits of meditation and want to work some moments of stillness into your daily life... but you don't know "how" to meditate. Start by just sitting wherever you are and closing your eyes for a minute. See what you notice. Take a couple of easy, slow breaths. Don't worry about your posture or the thoughts that come into your mind. Just enjoy the darkness for a minute or two. Then open your eyes and move on with your day. If those couple of minutes felt good to you, try it again later and let yourself sit a little longer.

(And yes, these are all things I have done myself!)

Does this idea have an application in acupuncture treatment? Why, yes! In my next post, I will talk about how acupuncture can put things "in motion" and keep them going!

Back pain is common. Acupuncture can help.

2014-07-11T12:05:00.002-04:00

Back pain is one of the most common things I treat in my acupuncture practice. (It's right up there with anxiety and infertility.) In the past couple of weeks, I have had more people than usual coming in with back pain as their primary complaint. Because back pain is something that acupuncture treats quite well, and because back pain is a topic near and dear to me personally (read my story here), I put together a brief handout about back pain that lists some of the scenarios I often treat, as well as a short introduction to some of the methods acupuncturists like myself use to treat this extremely common problem.

I think one of the reasons that acupuncturists treat so much back pain has to do with the fact that it is a persistent problem that often doesn't have a clear cause. There are definitely some people who come to me reporting that their MRI shows herniated discs, or who tell me about their recent injury or accident. But for people who have a less obvious or less measurable reason for their pain, treatment options can be somewhat limited. Western medicine offers a number of effective treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medications and injections; however, if these treatments don't work, or if you are unable to take these medications (or just prefer not to), you may be left feeling frustrated... and still uncomfortable. It's not easy to fully rest your back if you get hurt, so back pain often becomes chronic.

In Chinese medicine, we talk about pain as being the result of qi (energy) or blood that has stopped moving properly. We call this condition "qi stagnation and blood stasis", and it can occur anywhere in your body and result in many different types of pain and other medical problems. If qi and blood become stagnated in the meridians of your back, you may experience pain that is sharp and stabbing, or dull and achy, or a combination of these. Acupuncture is quite effective at moving qi and blood (similar to improving circulation) and relieving pain.

Whether your back pain is acute or chronic, from an unknown cause or the result of an accident, acupuncture and other Chinese medicine treatments can help you find relief.

5 Home Remedies for Allergies

2014-04-11T13:41:00.001-04:00

Spring - a season a beauty, a season of sneezing. Not surprisingly, the number of people coming for acupuncture and reporting sneezing, itchy throat, nasal congestion, and watery eyes has skyrocketed in the last 3 weeks as allergy season hits New York City. Happily, there are a few things you can do to make allergy season a little easier for yourself. Spring doesn't have to include a sinus infection and a round of antibiotics!

1. Neti pot: You can read my recent neti pot post here; the post includes a link to a neti pot YouTube video showing how to use this simple and effective tool to clear your sinuses and prevent sinus infections. The neti pot is really helpful in clearing mucus out of your nasal passages and preventing buildup of bacteria in your sinuses. Using the neti pot can really help stave off a sinus infection. It is inexpensive and quick, and can be done right in your bathroom!

2. Steamy relief: Steam is very effective at loosening up mucus in your sinuses and your nose. It can also soothe your scratchy throat. You can easily get a good steam by either taking a very hot shower and staying in there as long as you can, or by draping a towel over your head and leaning over a sink filled with hot water. With the sink method, I think it helps to "refresh" the hot water every few minutes - just open the drain and run hot water again, so it stays as hot as possible while you breathe in the steam.

3. Eucalyptus oil: Just a drop or two of this potent oil can really open up your congested sinuses. Mix a drop of eucalyptus oil with a few drops of any kind of oil you have at home (good choices are vegetable oil and olive oil, which most of us already have.) Then gently massage the oil mixture into a few key acupuncture points: between your eyebrows, near your nose, and just inside your hairline. (Just be sure you do NOT get any oil in your eyes!!)

4. "Nasal Super-Opener": Combine the above three methods for some real relief! First, sprinkle one or two drops of eucalyptus oil onto the floor of your shower or into the sink. (Start with one drop - eucalyptus is strong and you can always add more!) Take a long hot shower or do the sink steam. As soon as you're done, gently blow your nose to clear out the loosened mucus. Finally, do a round of the neti pot to clear out any remaining mucus. Feel yourself breathe free and clear!

5. Spring cleaning: It's important to vacuum your carpets frequently, so that pollen and other allergens don't surround you in your home all day and night. An air filter can also make a big difference. We recently invested in air filters and it has made a huge difference for us! Running a humidifier as often as possible, especially in your bedroom at night, will keep mucus loose, making it easier to clear it out. (One humidifier tip - it may be tempting to add essential oils to your humidifier, but they can really clog up the mechanism that makes the humidifier work properly, so you're better off using a different method for essential oils.)

6. Food can help you! If you are prone to phlegm, eating foods that create more phlegm can make your allergy symptoms worse. Instead of eating dairy products, sugary foods, and fried foods, which can increase the mucus in your nose and sinuses, enjoy unlimited fruits and vegetables, teas, and spices like turmeric and cinnamon, which may help prevent inflammation. Onions, garlic, mustard, and hot peppers can also help you - think about how your nose feels when you eat or smell these foods... One taste of horseradish, and I can feel my sinuses clear up in seconds!

7. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs: If you've tried all of these things and you still feel like spring is more of a curse than a treat, acupuncture and herbs can really help open your sinuses and even prevent allergy symptoms from getting worse. Most people get relief almost immediately during an acupuncture session. Don't let allergies ruin spring in New York for you - it was a long, cold winter, and we should enjoy the beautiful days!!

The Neti Pot - A satisfying way to clear your sinuses

2014-01-14T13:21:00.001-05:00

In the last few weeks, I have treated what feels like a record number of sinus infections at my acupuncture office. I always see a lot of people with sinus infections during the winter, but somehow it seems like more than usual this year. Perhaps this is due to the wild temperature swings we have had in New York, which (from a Chinese medicine perspective) can make us more susceptible to common colds. As always, your best bet to prevent a cold that leads to a sinus infection is to wash your hands often. It is also recommended that you wear a scarf and keep your neck and upper back covered and protected from the wind - in Chinese medicine, we say that pathogens enter the body through the depressions at the base of the skull. So keep your neck warm and dry to help you stay healthy!

If you're already sick and fighting off a sinus infection, there are some things you can do to help yourself heal faster. You can't go wrong with a nice, hot brothy soup (chicken noodle and miso are popular choices), a humidifier in your bedroom at night, and plenty of rest. In addition, you might try using a neti pot.

For those of you who have never tried a neti pot (pronounced "net-ee"), I can best describe the experience as kind of gross and intensely satisfying. Every time I have used one, I have been shocked and amazed by the amount of mucus I was able to (painlessly!) remove from my sinuses... and it's a relief to have it out! I almost always feel instantly better - it's easier to breathe, my head and sinuses feel lighter and more open, and I'm delighted to know that all that mucus is no longer sitting in my face.

I frequently recommend neti pots to my patients, but sometimes people are hesitant because they feel like using a neti pot is difficult or painful. Here are some common questions about the experience, with my answers:

Where can I buy a neti pot?

These days, you can find them at most drug stores, as well as natural health food stores, and online at places like Amazon (for example, this is the one I have). They are usually made of ceramic or plastic.

What should I put in the neti pot?

The most basic solution is to fill your neti pot with warm water (preferably distilled, or boiled and cooled), and add about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt or sea salt. The salt prevents irritation to the mucus membranes of your nose. Some people also like to add ONE drop of pure tea tree oil, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties, and can help eliminate infection-causing organisms from your sinuses. Tea tree is not necessary, but if you do use it, be sure you use no more than one drop!! Mix the salt (and optional tea tree) into the water until the salt is dissolved.

How do I use the neti pot?

There is a bit of a learning curve, but here is a helpful YouTube video to show you what to do. I recommend that you stand in a tub or over your sink, bend at the waist (about 45 degrees), and tilt your head to the side (about 45 degrees). Gently insert the spout of the neti pot into the "upper" nostril, and carefully tip the neti pot to allow the salt water to flow into your nostril. Breathe through your mouth! It may take a moment, but eventually, you should feel the water passing through your sinuses; after another moment, it will start to drip out of your "lower" nostril. It may just come out in drops first, and then you may get a steady stream of water through your lower nostril. You may see a little mucus in the water as it comes out... or you may see a lot!
If you are uncomfortable, or if you feel like the water is going down your throat instead of through your sinuses (for example, if you taste salt water in the back of your throat), simply adjust the angle of your head or your torso. Sometimes very tiny, subtle adjustments make all the difference, so you just have to experiment for a couple of minutes until you get it.
Pour about half of the water in the neti pot through one nostril, then blow your nose to remove the mucus. Switch sides and pour the other half through your other nostril. Blow your nose again.
When you are done, thoroughly rinse and clean the neti pot for next time.
Some people find that taking a hot shower first can help loosen up the mucus, making it easier to remove the mucus with the neti pot.
It may take a couple of tries to effectively clear out the mucus, especially if you are extremely congested and the mucus is more solid or dry, rather than watery.

Does it hurt? Is it uncomfortable?

In my experience, there is no pain associated with using the neti pot. I sometimes feel pressure as the water fills up my sinuses, before it starts to drip through. This is relieved as soon as the water comes out. Of course, if you are in pain, STOP using the neti pot and consider seeing your doctor to make sure nothing more serious is wrong.

Finally, acupuncture and herbs are very effective for opening up the sinuses and treating or preventing sinus infections. If you would like acupuncture or herbs for a sinus infection (acute or chronic), feel free to get in touch!

Acupuncture and Seasonal Affective Disorder

2013-11-03T15:43:00.001-05:00

We set our clocks back an hour today, which means we have an extra hour to work, play, and sleep! Many of us see this extra hour as a gift, but for people struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), this is just one part of a difficult shift that happens for them every year.

Seasonal affective disorder is a subtype of depression that occurs (or recurs) predictably around the same time of year; for most people, it starts in the fall when the days get shorter and people experience less light exposure. It is also referred to as "winter depression". Often it is minimized as "seasonal blues" or "holiday blues", but normal daily functioning can actually be quite difficult for those who suffer from SAD.

Chinese medicine theory tells us that we should try to live in harmony with the environment, and that the dark, cold months are a time to hibernate and prepare for the coming spring. Unfortunately, for those who suffer from SAD, there is a marked decrease in ability to function normally, so if the desire to stay inside and sleep disrupts your daily functioning, you need to seek help.

Common symptoms of SAD may include:

Feelings of depression or hopelessness
A desire to sleep more
Withdrawal from social life
Lack of interest in activities that you normally enjoy
Feeling like your body is heavy, or feeling low in energy
Increased appetite, craving for high-carb / high-fat foods, and weight gain

SAD occurs more frequently women. It is not know exactly what causes or triggers SAD, but researchers think that it relates to changes in melatonin production during the darker winter months, as well as disruptions to the circadian rhythm (your body's "internal clock" that tells you when to be active and when to rest). In addition, those who already have a diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder are more likely to experience an increase in their symptoms around this time of year. For more information about the western medical view of SAD, you can check out these fact sheets from the Mayo Clinic and the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Chinese medicine can be very helpful in the treatment of depression and bipolar disorder, as well as SAD. I have treated a number of people for SAD symptoms with good results. Some of them chose to use only acupuncture and herbs, while other used additional treatment modialities at the same time, such as light therapy, medication, and specific exercise regimens. From a Chinese medical perspective, SAD is often a sign of stagnation of the Liver's qi (energy). When Liver qi stagnates, people may feel depressed, sluggish, or overly tired. According to Chinese medicine theory, when the Liver stagnates, it causes the Spleen to become weak, resulting in unhealthy food cravings, a feeling of heaviness in the limbs, and poor concentration or memory.

This relationship between the Liver and Spleen, and the resulting health problems, can be effectively treated with acupuncture and herbs. In fact, this is one of the patterns of depression that I think responds especially well to acupuncture and herbs. One of my favorite success stories in my practice is that of a woman who came to me with SAD, and who reported feeling "normal in all ways" after just four acupuncture treatments and three weeks of herbs. You can read more about this patient and her case here.

If you are feeling an increase in depression symptoms, or if you know that this is a time of year when you get depressed, please feel free to get in touch to discuss how acupuncture and herbs can help you. Let Chinese medicine help you get off to a good start in 2014!

Boost your immunity with acupuncture and these other health tips!

2013-10-12T16:39:00.001-04:00

No doubt about it - it's fall! If the changing leaves, pumpkins, and Halloween costumes weren't enough to make you realize that summer is over and autumn is here, the number of sick people at work and school make it clear. In the last couple of weeks, I have seen a big jump in the number of people reporting colds and sinus infections at my acupuncture office.

Luckily, there are lots of steps you can take to protect yourself from the onslaught of germs. I recently came across this piece in Real Simple Magazine, and I thought it was worth sharing. Some of these tips may not be news to you (as always, handwashing is crucial!), but others are surprisingly effective and easy things you can do keep yourself healthy this fall and winter. A few highlights from the Real Simple article that may be new to you:

Probiotics can strengthen your immune system by boosting your intestinal flora (the "good" bacteria in your gut). This in turn helps your respiratory system defend itself from germs. Try eating plain yogurt with bifido-bacterium and lactobacillus, and add in a yummy fall apple chopped into small pieces.

Use a humidifier, which dampens the air and keeps airborne viruses from floating around as they would in a very dry environment. Bonus: if you are already under the weather, a humidifier will make sleep much easier and more pleasant by keeping your nasal passages and throat moist.

Keep your distance from your sneezing co-worker. We all know that viruses can travel through the air when a sick person coughs or sneezes, but did you know that they can travel six feet (or more!)? If you must come in contact with someone who is sick (i.e., shaking hands), at least avoid touching your face until you can thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.

Click here to read more tips from the Real Simple article.

Acupuncture and herbs can also help protect you from germs this fall and winter. In Traditional Chinese medicine, we talk about wei qi (pronounced "way chee"), which helps block germs and other pathogens from entering your body. I like to think of it as a force field that can deflect illness-causing organisms and pathogens.

If you are someone who gets sick frequently, or if you feel like your immunity is poor and you catch every illness going around, you may benefit from acupuncture and herbs that strengthen the wei qi. We have several acupuncture points (especially on the arms and legs) that build up your wei qi. We also have Chinese herbs that you can easily take in pill form for a long-term immune boost.

If you feel like you're in the beginning stages of a cold or flu, acupuncture can help your body fight back by boosting your wei qi. We can give herbal formulas that target different types of cold and flu symptoms in an effort to prevent the symptoms from getting worse. Time is of the essence, though, so if you think you're getting sick (i.e., you have a tickle in your throat, you're feeling a little feverish, etc), don't wait to get help!

If you are already sick, acupuncture and herbs can do a few things. We can often speed up the duration of the symptoms so you're not sick as long. We can also lessen the severity of symptoms by helping to clear the nasal passages, chest, or sinuses.

As always, prevention is best, so read through the Real Simple article for some tips, and always make sure to keep your hands clean and dry!

New research supports traditional medicine: Gut Feelings

2013-10-07T14:12:00.000-04:00

I recently read this interesting article about the relationship between intestinal health and mental health. It is definitely worth a read if you're suffering from a mental illness or experiencing severe anxiety or depression. New research suggests that an imbalance in gut bacteria is linked with changes in mental health, and can contribute to symptoms like obsessive thoughts or hyperactivity. You can read an article summarizing the findings here:

Gut Feelings: The future of psychiatry may be inside your stomach

The findings of this research come as no surprise to me as a Chinese medicine practitioner, and they're of great interest to me as a former psychiatric medications research coordinator. When I worked in psychiatric clinical research, I remember being struck by how frequently depressed and anxious patients complained about physical ailments. In particular, I noticed that these patients were likely to report stomach disturbances - diarrhea, constipation, gas, bloating, stomach pain, "nervous stomach", changes in appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Chinese medicine theory provides a very logical reason for this: the stagnation of Liver qi (energy) can lead to weakness of Spleen qi (causing diarrhea and nervous stomach), or rebellion of Stomach qi (causing constipation, nausea, or vomiting). The qi of the Liver is easily disrupted by anger, frustration, or depression, and in turn, the Liver "overacts" on the organs of digestion. In turn, people who are suffering from chronic or constant digestive problems tend to feel anxious that something serious is wrong, causing more anxiety, or frustrated and annoyed because their stomachs are always upset. As a result, it is very difficult to separate mental illness from physical illness - these conditions easily feed into each other.

In fact, this concept is the very basis of my practice. In my experience, acupuncture and Chinese medicine are an excellent way to bridge the gap between the mental and physical experience of illness. I constantly hear stories about the blurring of these lines: hot flashes or asthma attacks that get confused with panic attacks, or a stressful situation that got so bad that someone's back "went out". I treat a lot of anxiety and depression in my acupuncture practice, and the majority of patients who come to me with these complaints also experience stomach upset of some kind.

The good news is that acupuncture and Chinese medicine are very useful in the treatment of both mental and physical conditions because we treat the whole person and do not feel the need to make a hard and fast distinction between physical health and mental health. Just another way that Chinese medicine is here to help you!

Yunker Acupuncture Fall Newlsetter

2013-09-25T12:34:00.000-04:00

I'm pleased to share that the Fall 2013 Newsletter is now available on my website! In the newsletter, you will find updates about my office and my practice, recipes for delicious seasonal food (butternut squash!), tips for maintaining your health this autumn, and information about my new Friday hours for students. Please visit my website, www.YunkerAcupuncture.com, and click on the Fall Newsletter link on the upper right hand side. Hard copies of the newsletter are also available in my office, along with other articles and useful acupuncture information from my colleagues. Happy Fall!

Upcoming Forum on Infertility

2013-09-18T12:05:00.000-04:00

The decision to have a baby through the use of in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), or donor eggs or embryos is extremely difficult for many couples. In many cases, this comes after years of attempting to get pregnant by natural means, often with a history of repeated miscarriages. The process takes a toll on both partners, and there may be a tremendous financial burden associated with the process. I have worked with couples who have tried for years to get pregnant by whatever means possible. Often, there is a happy ending - a healthy baby and joyful parents. Unfortunately, there are some couples that are unable to get pregnant, even with medical intervention. It can be heartbreaking.

For those who are struggling to get pregnant, or who made the decision to stop trying to conceive, I would like to spread the word about an upcoming forum on fertility issues:

THE CYCLE: Living a Taboo
September 27th, 2013, at 8:00pm
BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center
http://www.thecyclelivingataboo.com/

In the words of one of the forum organizers:

"This is not a 'conference' in a traditional sense. It is truly a

forum, where those who have experienced infertility will tell

their stories and how they came through whole. We will be

'storytelling' about the infertility experience, from beginning

to end, including addressing the recovery from trauma when one

chooses to live without children after infertility treatment:

something that is rarely discussed and seems to be quite taboo.

The 90-minute program will also include input from fertility

doctors and the media...Those attending will come away with a

more in depth understanding of infertility and its physical and

mental health consequences... Our goal is to truly change the

dialogue around infertility, and bring this profoundly misunderstood

and taboo topic into the light of day."

As an acupuncturist who has worked with many couples to overcome infertility, I hope this event will succeed in confronting some of the issues that make up this complicated process. I also hope that some people will find solace in the knowledge that are not alone in their struggle.

Acupuncture and PMS

2013-09-09T17:15:00.001-04:00

Moody. Crampy. Ravenous. Irritable. Achy. Depressed. If you have ever felt like this around your period, you are not alone! Estimates vary, but some research suggests that as many as 75% of women experience some form of PMS at some point in their lives (Mayo Clinic; National Institutes of Health).

It is interesting to note that in our society, PMS is commonly accepted as a "normal" part of being a woman of child-bearing age, but in Chinese medicine, PMS is seen as a symptom of disharmony between the organ systems that regulate fertility, digestion, and the flow of blood through your body.

While the occasional day of cramps can be tolerable, you may want to seek help if:

your cramps are so severe that you cannot perform your normal activities;
PMS starts many days, or even weeks, before your period starts;
your digestion changes around your period (diarrhea, constipation, gas...);
your mood changes so much that it effects your relationships or your work;
you feel depleted, exhausted, or significantly weakened by your period;
you get migraines or severe headaches that are connected to your menstrual cycle;
you are trying to get pregnant and your menstrual cycle is in some way irregular

If you feel like some or all of these statements about PMS describe your monthly experience, there is great news! Acupuncture is very effective for women whose periods are difficult or painful; in fact, it is something I am asked to treat quite often, and I have had good results treating PMS and related symptoms.

In Chinese medicine, PMS is caused by stagnation of qi (energy) and blood, resulting in pain and cramps around the period. Normally, qi should move smoothly to allow the blood to flow freely and painlessly; if there is stagnation or difficult movement of qi, menstrual blood is not able to move easily and you may experience pain. This stagnation of qi in the Liver is often responsible for the irritability and depression that some women experience around their periods; in other words, everything is "stuck" and you feel it physically and emotionally. It is common for women to report diarrhea (and, a little less commonly, constipation), which is the result of stagnated Liver qi "overacting" on the qi of the Spleen, which regulates digestion. Acupuncture is generally quite good at addressing digestive complaints such as diarrhea, as well as the type of irritability that people experience from stagnated Liver qi.

People often ask how long it takes to see changes in PMS symptoms. In general, I tell patients that they should allow at least three cycles to see significant changes. You may see changes before that, but it is not uncommon for it to take 3-6 cycles.

If you have difficult, highly emotional, or painful periods, don't just accept that this is normal! Chinese medicine has a lot to offer women who suffer every month when their periods are about to start. If you think your periods are more unpleasant than they need to be, or you have questions about PMS and acupuncture, feel free to get in touch!

Welcome to our beautiful new office!

2013-09-05T23:05:00.001-04:00

Jessica's new acupuncture office:

124 East 40th Street, Suite 902
near Lexington Avenue
close to Grand Central and Bryant Park

Our peaceful and inviting waiting room

My colleagues and I recently moved to a beautiful office, and I am so excited to share a few pictures! We worked very hard to create a space that is healing, clean, calming, and gorgeous, and I am proud to say that I think we accomplished our goal.


Fresh flowers and light reading in our waiting room

Serene green wall in Treatment Room 5

Our office has five treatment rooms and two bathrooms. Four of the treatment rooms have large windows with plenty of light (but you can close the curtains, if you prefer to rest in a darker room!). The fifth room has no windows, making it silent and dark - perfect for relaxing! The office is fully air conditioned, and the temperature can be set to your preference in most of the rooms. We also have heat lamps in every room, and heated pads on each table for those chilly days. We have a mix of carpeting and pretty hard wood floors. The lights in the treatment rooms can be dimmed as much as you like.

Our aim was to create a space where someone could truly relax and heal. If you are interested in trying acupuncture, please visit Jessica's website to see offers for prospective patients. Hope to see you soon!

Treatment Room 1 - complete with acupuncture models of the body and the ear

Treatment Room 2 - plenty of light from our huge windows

Treatment Room 1 - another view

Acupuncture and IVF: Different treatments for different patients

2013-08-30T14:26:00.000-04:00

There are many studies suggesting that acupuncture can significantly increase the chances of having a successful IVF (in vitro fertilization). Many of these studies examined standard treatment protocols on the day of embryo transfer, meaning that each patient receives a treatment that is the same as every other patient. This approach has been successful in the wider acupuncture community, and in my own practice. Now, a new study suggests that two types of female infertility are more likely to respond to acupuncture, resulting in higher rates of pregnancy and live birth.

This is actually great news (and not surprising news) for me and for the women in my practice - I don't rely on standard treatment protocols during the months leading up to the IVF cycle. Women who come to my practice anytime before the day of transfer are given acupuncture treatments that correspond to their individual patterns and symptoms. I do an extensive health history to determine what Chinese medicine treatment will be the most beneficial for the patient.

There are several different Chinese medicine diagnoses for infertility in women. Among the most common are Kidney deficiency, Liver qi stagnation, and phlegm-damp accumulation. A woman may have a combination of these diagnoses, or another diagnosis, but these syndromes are especially common.

Kidney deficiency includes Kidney yin deficiency and Kidney yang deficiency.

Women who are Kidney yin deficient often report night sweats, and may have a flushed face, a very thin build, and a tendency to "run hot". Their periods are often light, and the blood is bright red. They may have dry mouth or ringing in their ears.

Kidney yang deficient women are more likely to be cold, and to feel slow, lethargic, or fatigued. They tend to report that their periods are often late, and that the period itself is scant and the blood is pale in color. They may have excessive vaginal discharge, low sex drive, and a tendency towards diarrhea.

Women with Liver qi stagnation are likely to feel frustrated, angry, irritable or "stuck", and may have a history of irregular periods or severe PMS symptoms, such as cramps and mood changes. They may see clots or pieces of tissue in the blood during their periods. These women may also report that they are depressed or have been depressed in the past.

Patients with phlegm-damp accumulation may report polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, or blockages in the Fallopian tubes. They may be overweight, and feel a heavy sensation throughout their bodies. They may also present with excessive sweating and poor appetite.

The good news is that women who present with either Kidney deficiency or Liver qi stagnation appear to be most likely to respond to acupuncture during their IVF cycle, and to have positive outcomes during the cycle. These are very common diagnoses in women struggling with infertility, so this research is encouraging to couples who are trying to get pregnant through IVF. There are many acupuncture points, Chinese herbal formulas and lifestyle suggestions that can help you increase your chances of success during your upcoming IVF cycle. Read more about the study's findings here.

If you think you may have phlegm-damp, don't feel discouraged! Acupuncture has a lot to offer women who present with these symptoms as well. I have treated many women with these conditions, and there is almost always improvement in the symptoms. Through the use of acupuncture, herbs, gentle heat application, and diet counseling, Chinese medicine may be able to help you conceive naturally or with IVF.

If you think that one of these syndromes describes you, and you would like to learn more about acupuncture and IVF, and improving fertility with Chinese medicine, please contact me for more information.

Constipation and acupuncture

2013-08-23T17:39:00.000-04:00

We all have rhythms and patterns in our lives -- the hours when we typically sleep, how and when we eat meals or snacks, our schedules for work and school... For most of us, there is also a pattern to how frequently we have bowel movements. Some people have bowel movement each day. Some people only go the the bathroom a couple of times per week, while others may go several times in one day. Each of these patterns may be totally normal; however, if you notice that you are going much less often than usual, or you find that actually having a bowel movement is difficult or painful, you may be constipated. Sometimes people don't realize they are constipated until they notice another problem, such as severe bloating or hemorrhoids.

Often, difficulty with bowel movements can be attributed to diet or lack of physical movement. In Chinese medicine, we also talk about other causes of constipation, such as heat, dryness in the Intestines, excess phlegm, or stagnation of qi (energy). Any of these factors can cause a disruption in the body's normal ability to move the bowels and get rid of stool. The good news is that acupuncture is quite effective for the treatment of constipation, whether the problem is acute or chronic. Acupuncture is also a great alternative to laxatives, and can be helpful when there is constipation in pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

Your acupuncturist will ask you questions about your bowel habits. Some of these questions may seem unrelated to constipation or bowel function, but will help your acupuncturist determine the cause of your constipation in order to design an effective treatment strategy. Some things your acupuncturist may want to know include:

frequency of bowel movements, and any changes in frequency;
whether or not there is pain, bloating, or gas;
what types of foods you typically eat;
what exercise you do, if any;
factors that seem to make your constipation worse or better
what was happening in your life when the problem started
whether or not you also have hemorrhoids

Your acupuncturist can use the answers to these questions, as well as information gathered from your tongue and pulse examination, to create a treatment regimen that addresses your specific symptoms.

Constipation is something that I treat pretty regularly, and I have had good results in the past. I also spend time discussing diet and helping people identify foods or dietary habits that may be contributing to their constipation. If hemorrhoids are present, we can treat those as well -- acupuncture is quite good at addressing hemorrhoids! In some cases, there are lifestyle modifications that can help regulate your bowel movements. As with any condition, I take the time to understand what factors are contributing to your personal situation, and then work with you to find solutions.

If you are experiencing constipation and would like to try acupuncture to treat the problem, please feel free to call me or email me.

Low-cost Community Acupuncture now available!

2013-08-16T12:28:00.002-04:00

I am pleased to announce that I will offering low-cost acupuncture sessions once again! I invite you to experience high-quality care in a beautiful, peaceful setting. Here are the details:

Fridays from 11:00am - 3:00pm (an appointment is REQUIRED)
124 East 40th Street, Suite 902 (near Lexington Avenue, close to Grand Central)
$40 per session, $50 for the first session (herbs, if needed, are additional)

These hours are intended for students and those who are currently unemployed.
Each session lasts about 45 minutes.

These sessions are best suited for certain conditions:

Anxiety
Depression
Insomnia
Headaches and migraines
Menstrual irregularities or pain
Hand / wrist / arm problems
Foot / ankle / leg problems
Digestive issues
Cold and allergy symptoms

A bit of history... I offered Community Style Acupuncture at a reduced cost in my office several years ago. During these Community hours, I treated up to four people at one time in a communal setting, with everyone seated in chairs. Once I got pregnant, it became too difficult for me to continue offering these types of treatments, as I was no longer flexible enough to get on the floor to place needles in someone who was sitting up! However, I really enjoyed this style of treatment, and I was pleased to make acupuncture available to those who were otherwise unable to afford acupuncture treatment.

Now, with a second pregnancy behind me, I am delighted to offer this service again. This time, I plan to offer acupuncture treatments to people in individual treatment rooms (rather than communally in one room), and with people lying down in a treatment table (rather than seated in a chair).

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment during Community Hours, or if you have questions, please email me (Jessica@YunkerAcupuncture.com) or call (917) 596-6385.

New study shows acupuncture helps female infertility

2012-01-31T21:09:00.005-05:00

Good news for women who want to get pregnant but are having difficulty conceiving - a recent study published in the journal "Complementary Therapies in Medicine" reports that Chinese medicine can increase the chances of getting pregnant. The authors state:

"Our review suggests that management of female infertility with Chinese Herbal Medicine can improve pregnancy rates 2-fold within a 4 month period compared with Western Medical fertility drug therapy or IVF [in vitro fertilization]. Assessment of the quality of the menstrual cycle, integral to TCM diagnosis, appears to be fundamental to successful treatment of female infertility."

For more details, you can read the abstract of this Chinese medicine fertility study. As the authors conclude, it is important to get a detailed history of the menstrual cycle in order to effectively treat female infertility. Your practitioner will ask you questions about your period (cycle length, duration of the period, associated symptoms and PMS, and so on), and will consider this along with other health history information, and examination of your pulse and tongue. All of this information allows your practitioner to make a diagnosis, and choose acupuncture points and herbs that are specific to you and your body.

Chinese medicine has a lot to offer women who are having trouble getting pregnant. If you are struggling with infertility, acupuncture and herbs can help you!

A short video about a resolution you can actually keep!

2012-01-01T13:21:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year!

Like many people, I find myself thinking about areas of my life that I would like to change or improve. While it may seem arbitrary to make resolutions just because it's January 1st, I think it's always helpful to reflect on things in our lives that are working well, and to consider making changes where necessary. I try to do this every few months -- it helps to put things in perspective and make minor changes on a regular basis.

Some resolutions are smaller, day-to-day goals, like remembering to make the bed every morning or to take vitamins; other resolutions are larger or more long-term, such as the decision to quit smoking or to make a career change.

I recently watched a video called "23 and 1/2 hours", which answers the question, "What is the single best thing we can do for our health?" It's a really engaging presentation by a doctor / professor about the benefits of exercise. Some of the information he shares will be new, and other parts will definitely be familiar to you, but his way of sharing data is fun to watch. He suggests that we can all commit to doing some form of exercise for at least 30 minutes per day -- or, put another way, to limit sitting and sleeping to just 23-and-a-half hours per day. When put this way, the goal of exercising to improve health feels very manageable!

This is a great example of a resolution that is both big (improve my overall health) and small (exercise a little bit every day). If you are working on some health goals of your own, no matter what the size, acupuncture may help you achieve your intentions. I invite you to contact me to discuss how acupuncture can help you improve your health and your quality of life.

I wish you all the best in 2012!!!

Acupuncture and Pregnancy

2010-12-27T13:32:00.012-05:00

You're pregnant! This is often a very exciting time for women, as they think about, and prepare for, the tiny life growing inside them. Ideally, you'll feel just as good during your pregnancy as you did before (and some women feel even better!). But just in case you are having any problems during your pregnancy, it's reassuring to know that acupuncturists are able to help you.

Women frequently come to my office while pregnant. The first question they often ask? "Is it safe to have acupuncture while I'm pregnant?" The answer is YES! There are a handful of points that a trained acupuncturist will avoid using on a pregnant woman, but, as I always tell my patients, we have hundreds of points to choose from, so we'll find something safe and effective. (It's worth mentioning here that this is a perfect example of the importance of seeing an acupuncturist who is licensed and has received adequate training in safety issues.)

What pregnancy problems can be helped with acupuncture? Here are some of the things I commonly treat, for which acupuncture is quite effective:

Nausea / vomiting - Acupuncture is so effective for pregnancy related nausea that insurance companies will often cover it! Here is a research study abstract on the effects of acupuncture in pregnancy related nausea and vomiting. This is another abstract about acupuncture and nausea in general. Your acupuncturist can help you find diet and lifestyle modifications which may significantly decrease the nausea and vomiting you experience while pregnant. Reflux and heartburn can also be alleviated with acupuncture.
Fatigue / exhaustion - This is a very common symptom during pregnancy, and acupuncture can help keep your energy level more stable.
Aches and pains - The fact is, your body changes constantly when you're pregnant. These physical changes can put pressure on your joints, causing anything from mild to severe discomfort. Acupuncture helps relieve this discomfort so you can go about your day, and then get a good night's sleep! Here is a study looking at the effect of acupuncture and stabilizing exercises in the treatment of pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy. This is an abstract about acupuncture for back pain during pregnancy. Acupuncture can be really helpful here since many women want to avoid taking pain medication while pregnant.
Changes in mood - Some women don't want to take medications for mood or anxiety while pregnant, or their doctors may be advise them to stop certain medications. This study about acupuncture treatment for depression during pregnancy suggests that acupuncture can be very helpful.
Threat of miscarriage - Certain women may be at a higher risk for having a miscarriage. Your OBGYN can advise you on steps you can take to decrease your chances of miscarrying. Acupuncture can also help decrease this risk. Herbs may be recommended as well - just be sure the person who gives you the herbs is board-certified and aware of safety issues associated with herbs and pregnancy! Not every herb is safe to take while pregnant, but there are many herbal formulas designed specifically to support your pregnancy, and a trained practitioner can find one that is appropriate for you.

These are just a few examples of how acupuncture can help pregnant women. If you are wondering if acupuncture can help you with another symptom of your pregnancy, feel free to contact me.

Pregnancy should be a time of health and well-being for you and your baby. Let acupuncture help you feel your best during this time!

Acupuncture and IVF Part 2 - During IVF Procedures

2009-09-20T15:14:00.008-04:00

In my last blog post, I talked about the uses of Chinese medicine while preparing for IVF. This post is about how acupuncture can help you and your partner once IVF procedures are already underway. Doctors and fertility clinics have a set of procedures that they usually follow, and acupuncture may be appropriate at each of these stages to enhance fertility and optimize the chances of a successful IVF cycle. As I mentioned in my last post, several of the large IVF clinics in NYC recommend acupuncture during the IVF cycle to increase the likelihood of pregnancy.

Regulating the cycle: Often, about a month before IVF is going to start, the doctors will start you on hormones to regulate your cycle. This allows them to know exactly when they will need to retrieve mature eggs. During this time, acupuncture can be used to regulate qi (energy) throughout the body, improve blood circulation, and calm the whole nervous system. In other words, your acupuncturist will try to nourish and replenish your body during this time, so that you are as healthy as possible going into the next stage of the IVF cycle.

Stimulation of the ovaries: Most patients are asked to return to the doctor's office on Day 2 of their cycle (the second day of your menstrual period). Assuming that the doctor thinks it's appropriate to go ahead with the IVF cycle that month, he or she will start you on hormone treatments to stimulate the ovaries so that you will make more follicles. Acupuncture can be very helpful at this stage as well - it can assist in producing more follicles, and can also be very helpful in thickening the lining of the uterus. This is important because it allows the transferred embryos to attach more easily to your uterus. Many women struggle with side effects of the hormones and drugs they take during this stage, so acupuncture can help with things like cramping, constipation, soreness, breast tenderness, mood swings, fatigue, and headaches that may arise.

Retrieval of eggs: Now it is time to retrieve the mature eggs. Your doctor will remove mature eggs from their follicles, and combine those that are viable with the most promising sperm. Retrieval is a surgical procedure which sometimes causes discomfort for women. Acupuncture can be useful at this stage to calm uterine cramping, reduce irritation or inflammation from the surgery, and again to address side effects from the hormones and medication.

Transfer of embryos: The eggs and sperm are combined in a lab and watched carefully while they (hopefully) meet and fertilize. Those eggs that fertilize will be allowed to continue developing for either 3 or 5 days, and then when the doctor feels they are viable and stable, one or more will be transferred back to the uterus. This day, the "transfer day", is one where acupuncture is often recommended by fertility clinics and doctors, as there is quite a bit of research indicating that acupuncture improves the chances of a successful transfer and pregnancy. On the transfer day, your acupuncturist will meet with you two times - immediately before and immediately after the transfer happens at your doctor's office. (This German study on acupuncture and IVF is quite interesting and compelling. Also see my previous blog post for links to research articles about acupuncture during IVF transfer.) In my practice, the acupuncture / transfer schedule looks something like this:

* The patient is told that transfer will happen on (for example) Monday at 12:00 noon;
* The acupuncturist meets the patient at 10:30, about 90 minutes before transfer is scheduled to occur;

* Acupuncture points are inserted according to successful research protocols (possibly with additional points specific to the patient, if needed). This is the "pre-transfer" treatment, and the patient rests for about 30 minutes with needles inserted;
* Needles are removed, and the patient makes her way (in a casual and relaxed fashion, with plenty of time to spare) to the doctor's office, where fertilized embryos are transferred to her uterus;
* After being cleared to leave, the patient calls the acupuncturist to say that she's on her way back to the acupuncturist's office for the "post-transfer" treatment;
* The needles for the "post-transfer" treatment are inserted, and the patient is left to relax for about 30 minutes;
* The patient goes home to rest!

What are these "pre-transfer" and "post-transfer" treatments for? The pre-transfer treatment uses points that help dilate the cervix, which makes it easier for the embryos to be inserted into the uterus. Some points help improve circulation of blood to the uterus, thus creating a thicker uterine lining. There are also points to calm the patient's whole nervous system, which in turn calms the uterus. This relaxing of the uterus is important because it decreases cramping and uterine contractions - the more relaxed the uterus is, the more likely it is to allow for successful implantation.

The post-transfer treatment continues these ideas - it circulates blood to the uterus and nourishes the newly implanted embryo so that it can grow, and helps to prevent contractions of the uterus.

And now... we wait. Your doctor will tell you when to return to the office for a pregnancy test. In my next post, I will discuss some of the ways that acupuncture can help you during your pregnancy. More soon...

Acupuncture and IVF Part 1 - Preparing for IVF

2009-08-29T13:03:00.011-04:00

IVF stands for in vitro fertilization, meaning that the egg is fertilized by the sperm outside of the womb. ("Vitro" means glass, referring to the lab equipment where the fertilization takes place.) Typically, IVF is done in situations where a woman is unable to get pregnant through intercourse alone. This may be due to her age, previous health issues that have affected her fertility, or issues with a male partner's sperm. IVF may also be used in cases where the woman wants a child but does not have a male partner.

No matter what the situation, it may be appropriate to consider acupuncture as an adjunctive therapy when starting IVF; in fact, many of the large fertility clinics in NYC recommend acupuncture throughout the IVF process!

A lot has been written about acupuncture and IVF. There have been many research studies that show that acupuncture can greatly increase the chances of IVF success, which is welcome news to anyone going through the process. For those interested in research about this topic, you may want to visit these links. (There are MANY studies - this is just a small sample!)

A frequently cited study showing a pregnancy rate of 42.5% in those who had acupuncture with IVF (significantly more than in those who did not use acupuncture during IVF)
A study about acupuncture done on the day of transfer or 2 days after transfer versus no acupuncture at all, showing that the acupuncture groups had higher rates of pregnancy
A study indicating that acupuncture treatments designed to promote fertility resulted in more pregnancies than treatments not aimed an increasing fertility

There are several stages to the IVF process, and acupuncture helps in different ways during these stages. Today's post is about the first part of IVF, and the use of acupuncture to prepare your body before IVF procedures begin.

To help you prepare for IVF, acupuncturists have several goals:

Improving ovarian function: Part of the IVF process involves stimulating the ovaries to produce more follicles and higher quality eggs. Often, it is impossible for a woman to get pregnant because of poor egg quality resulting from age or illness (or for other reasons that may be unidentified). Obviously, healthy eggs are the basis for a successful pregnancy! Acupuncture can help increase the number of eggs and the quality of those eggs in the month(s) leading up to the IVF procedures.
Lowering FSH levels: A high FSH (follicular stimulating hormone) level suggests that the ovaries are not functioning as well as they should be. Acupuncture helps to regulate hormone levels and improve ovarian function, which in turn lowers FSH levels. This is important because many IVF clinics will use the FSH level to help decide whether or not it is appropriate to go ahead with IVF procedures that month.
Improving immune system functioning, reduce side effects of IVF medications, and reduce stress: Some women (not all) experience side effects from the medications that are used to prepare their bodies for IVF. These side effects are varied, but commonly include things like abdominal bloating, abdominal or uterine cramping, mood swings, or mild depression. Some people (both men and women) find the experience of trying to get pregnant or of going through IVF stressful, and reducing that stress can help the whole process along. Acupuncture is a good way to calm the body, reduce discomfort, and alleviate stress while preparing for IVF.
Improving the quantity and quality of semen: While much of the IVF literature focuses on the woman, it should be noted that acupuncture can be very helpful to men as well, especially in cases where part of the of difficulty in getting pregnant lies in poor sperm count, low motility (movement) of sperm, or sperm that are not formed correctly (poor morphology). You need healthy sperm to have a good chance at a successful IVF, and a couple of months of acupuncture can help create better sperm before IVF even starts.
Dietary recommendations: In Chinese medicine, diet is always an important consideration for achieving optimal health. As someone prepares for IVF, an acupuncturist may suggest that they reduce the amount of cold, raw food that they eat or drink. It may also be helpful to decrease the amount of caffeine. Nourishing, warm, cooked foods are wonderful for promoting fertility and increasing the chance of success with IVF. Think about soups, stews, beans, lentils, chicken, eggs, cooked vegetables, and perhaps some red meat both before and during the IVF process.

I am frequently asked if it is "too late" to start acupuncture for IVF by women at various stages of the process. My general answer is that it's never too late -- the effects of acupuncture can be both immediate and long-term. Ideally, I love to see people start acupuncture a couple of months before starting IVF so that the body is in its optimal condition going into the process. However, for some people this is not an option, in which case I always feel that some acupuncture is better than no acupuncture while trying to get pregnant!

My next blog post will discuss how acupuncture can help you once the IVF procedures are already underway. Stay tuned...

Chinese Medicine Digestion 101

2009-08-16T18:18:00.010-04:00

Patients in my office frequently complain of digestive problems - I would say it's among the most common things I treat. (You can read my recent post about 10 things that respond well to acupuncture for a discussion of some other commonly treated conditions.) These digestive complaints are quite varied, but some things that come up often include:

diarrhea
constipation
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
gas or belching
bloating
abdominal pain
acid reflux or heartburn
nausea or vomiting from many causes
indigestion
changes in appetite

These conditions may occur acutely or chronically, and may occur in varying levels of severity or frequency. Regardless, they can be quite distressing when they occur.

In Chinese medicine, we talk about several organs that are specifically related to digestive function. (Keep in mind that the organs in Chinese medicine are somewhat different from the way you may be used to thinking about organs in Western medicine!)

The Stomach is responsible for receiving the food and drink that you take in to your body. It is also said to be in charge of the beginning processes of breaking down food.
The Spleen is in charge of the transformation of foods taken in by the Stomach. It extracts nutrients, and subsequently distributes those nutrients around the body.
The Liver helps to harmonize the functions of the Stomach and Spleen, and keep both organs functioning properly so that digestion is regulated and harmonious.
The Gallbladder stores and releases bile that aids digestive processes.
The Intestines help separate and carry waste products out of the body, and help to regulate fluid metabolism and fluid distribution.

These functions and roles may sound unfamiliar to you, but again, it is important to remember that the organs have different roles in Chinese medicine and western medicine.

Ideally, all of the organs are harmonized all the time: the Stomach and the Spleen balance each other because the Stomach guides food down while the Spleen transports nutrients in all directions. The Liver is able to freely move qi (energy) all over the body so that each organ works smoothly and without problems. The Gallbladder discharges the correct amounts of bile at the right times to aid in digestion. And the Intestines regularly eliminate waste and do not become sluggish or overactive.

However, the reality may be different for some of us. People regularly complain that they can't eat because they always feel like food is "stuck" in their digestive tracts already, or like they just can't digest anything. Some people have many loose bowel movements each day (resulting in feelings of hunger or dehydration), while others may only have a couple of bowel movements per week (thus feeling full, sluggish, or "toxic"). Some people can't eat a meal without severe bloating, abdominal pain, or acid reflux immediately after they take their last bite. Others say that food just doesn't taste good anymore and they have no appetite or interest in eating. Luckily, Chinese medicine offers acupuncture point prescriptions that can get digestive function regulated.

There are a few things you can do to keep your organs of digestion happy and fully functional:

Eat regular meals at regular times. This may seem obvious, but it really makes a big difference when your body knows to "expect" food at certain times of the day. This allows your Stomach and Spleen to function optimally when food does appear in the digestive tract.
Eat smaller portions rather than huge servings. Again, you have probably heard this one before, but it's a lot easier for your body to deal with small amounts of food many times per day than to try to break down a 64-oz steak, or an entire pound of pasta with cream sauce. Frequent small meals allow your body to easily slip into "digestion mode" when you eat.
When it's time to eat, just eat! Many of us are in the habit of eating while we work, watch TV, write e-mail, or commute. Dedicate mealtimes to meals, even if it's just 10 minutes. That 10 minutes of focused, healthy digestion will be better for you than a 45-minute lunch where you argue with your boss about a project you're working on. Make meals enjoyable: savor the delicious food you've prepared or purchased, make meals social and fun with friends or co-workers, or just sit in the park with your soup and soak up the sunshine.
Choose a diet that is healthy. Again, this seems painfully obvious, but your digestion can really only be as good as the food you put into your body. If you eat lots of junk food, and rely on greasy, heavy food for most of your meals, your digestion will suffer. Aim for a mix of healthy protein, fresh fruit or fresh veggies (preferably cooked!), and whole grains at each meal.
Cooked, warm foods are easier to digest. Many people eat lots of salads because they think that salads are the healthiest meal options out there. And salads can be a great source of fiber, vitamins, nutrients, and protein. But eating lots of cold, raw food can also play havoc with your digestion. Foods that are cooked and warm are already in a state where they can be easily broken down, allowing you to efficiently extract their nutrients.

Think of it this way: consider how hard your body has to work to chew, swallow, and break down a raw, cold, hard carrot and extract all the nutrients; then compare that with the work required to chew, digest, and draw nutrients from carrots that have been steamed, roasted or grilled. Now imagine if most of your food was like the raw, cold, hard carrot -- that's a lot of extra work for your digestive organs, and that extra work makes your system less efficient.
When someone comes to me with chronic stomach problems, one of the first things I do is suggest a diet high in cooked warm foods: soups, cooked vegetables, baked fruits... This often helps immensely!

If you have tried different ways of modifying your diet but you still have stomach problems, it's worth a visit to the doctor to make sure that nothing serious is wrong and that you don't have a food allergy or intolerance. Many of the people who come to me for digestive conditions have seen a doctor, and luckily have a clean bill of health... but unfortunately, they still have the same problems. In these situations, acupuncture may be helpful to regulate your body's digestion and optimize the food you take in, so you can feel healthy, nourished, and well fed!

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

2009-08-02T11:09:00.009-04:00

There are a few things people always ask when they first become interested in acupuncture. I am frequently asked how I became interested in acupuncture in the first place (a topic I discuss in this blog post). Another common question is, "What can acupuncture be used for?" (see my website for a list of conditions I treat, or contact me for more information).

But perhaps the most common question of all is: "Does acupuncture hurt??"

I have had a lot of acupuncture in my life and I can honestly say that acupuncture needles don't hurt that much. I would say that most people experience one of the following sensations at most acupuncture points:

A tiny prick, followed by no particular sensation
A slightly sharper prick, followed by a minute or two of diminishing sensation
A feeling of warmth or heaviness radiating around the point
A feeling of something "shooting" or "pulsing" down the leg or up the arm, lasting about 1-2 seconds
A feeling of itchiness near the point (most common on the hands and feet), lasting for a couple of minutes
No real feeling at all (these are the ones where people say, "I didn't even feel it go in!")

My rule of thumb is always that patients should let me know if a point feels actively painful for more than a minute or so, which allows me to make any adjustments necessary to stop the pain. The pain is not really dangerous, but rather is just distracting and annoying if you are trying to relax.

In many cases, the acupuncturist is trying to stimulate a sensation of something "shooting" up or down the channel. This indicates to the practitioner that they have "obtained qi". I usually explain this as a signal that we have accessed the "energy" of the body, allowing us to direct qi circulation in a way that will benefit the patient and promote healing. This shooting sensation, which is sometimes surprising to the patient, is not dangerous or painful, and it usually only lasts for about a second. It's generally regarded as a good thing!

People often expect that my acupuncture needles will feel similar to shots or blood draws that they have had during doctor's visits. However, acupuncture needles usually create far less pain or sensation, and rarely cause any bleeding. Acupuncture needles are very thin and flexible. I use 30-36 gauge needles. Keep in mind that a higher number indicates a thinner needle. For comaprison, a standard pierced earring is usually 18-20 gauge. A doctor's regular blood draw needle is 21-23 gauge, and a blood donation needle is 14-17 gauge. So acupuncture needles are MUCH smaller compared to other needles you are used to - only 0.2-0.3 mm in diameter. Look at a ruler and you will see how tiny that really is!

Most people find the experience of acupuncture very pleasant, and look forward to their appointments. It's not uncommon at all for people to fall asleep on the acupuncture table (sometimes even while I'm putting points in!), which tells me that the experience of having acupuncture is not very uncomfortable in most cases. As always, ask your practitioner if you feel anything out of the ordinary, but rest assured that acupuncture is generally a safe, comfortable and beneficial experience!

Summer Snacking!

2009-07-22T12:17:00.005-04:00

In the warm weather, your dietary needs and food cravings change somewhat. Whereas people tend to eat things like hearty soups, stews, and other heavy foods in the winter, we may not desire chili con carne over rice in the middle of August!

There are actually a couple of Chinese dietetics theories about how to eat in the summer. One theory says that you should eat foods that are cool in temperature and nature during the summer, as it helps your body counteract all the heat from the outdoor environment. With this in mind, you may want to consider things like salads, yogurt with fresh berries, chilled soups, and grain salads at room temperature.

Another theory of summertime eating suggests that warm foods and things that are spicy may be beneficial. The idea here is that eating this way keeps you in harmony with your outdoor environment. In other words, instead of trying to eat in opposition to the heat around, it might be better to warm the body from the outside AND the inside. If you follow this theory for your food choices, you may want to eat warm brothy soups, noodles with tofu and veggies, or cooked fish dishes. Think light, as opposed to heavy when you make your choices.

As with most food choices, let your body and your desires be your guide. In most cases, if you're craving something, it's because your body needs it. (The obvious exception here is a craving for something like Cheetos, which your body probably doesn't need!) If something hot and spicy sounds good to you, go for it! If you're really craving a cup of gazpacho, enjoy! In Chinese medicine, we strive for balance, so it makes sense to eat a combination of warm and cool foods. You can combine temperatures within your meal, too - a light chicken dish served warm with a salad might be just right for your summer dinner!

In general, it's best to stay away from excessively greasy, fatty dishes, and things that are too creamy may not agree with you in the summer heat. Instead, take advantage of the wonderful NYC farmer's markets, and base your meals around the bounty of summer! There is an abundance of gorgeous produce, fresh fish and meat, and delicious herbs available from our area's farms. Visit this site to find a NYC farmers' market near you.

Here is a recipe that combines warming and cooling elements. The broth or stock is slightly warming, and the tofu is cooler in nature (even when heated), so this is represents a balance of temperatures. Bon appetite!

Summer Tofu Soup

Tofu (silken or firm), cut into small cubes
Any assortment of veggies you like: asparagus, mushrooms, bean shoots, carrots, peas, green beans... cut into small bite-size pieces
Broth or stock (chicken or veggie): make your own or buy it at the grocery store
Fresh herbs (basil and dill are nice), chopped
Soy sauce

Simmer the veggies, tofu, and liquid together for a few minutes, until the veggies are cooked but not mushy. Serve garnished with fresh herbs, and just a few drops of soy sauce.

Acupuncture for Athletes

2009-07-06T11:33:00.008-04:00

I recently had the pleasure of an interview with Lauren Brill, a sports writer and reporter who focuses on fitness trends and sports events. She also contributes to the Nike Women blog. For her most recent blog post, she came to my office, asked me about how acupuncture can help athletes, and then had a treatment herself. Click to read her blog post on Eastern Medicine and Western Athletes.

Acupuncture and sports go together perfectly, and there is a long tradition of using acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and topical liniments (herbs soaked in alcohol and massaged into the injured area) to address the injuries incurred while participating in martial arts. Today, I see people who seek treatment for injuries from all kinds of sports and athletic activities - stiff knees from running, sore lower backs from biking, pulled muscles, and of course, traumatic injuries from a fall or a blow to the body. Acupuncture and herbs can be very effective in treating these kinds of injuries.

One question that comes up all the time is, "How long will this take? When can I start training again?" Of course, it can be very frustrating to be forced to stop exercising, but a rest period is often necessary to allow your body to heal so you can get back into top form quickly. I usually tell people that the older (and more chronic) the injury is, the longer it will take to heal. For example, an ankle injury that occurred 2 years ago and still causes problems will probably take longer to treat than an ankle injury that occurred 4 days ago. That doesn't mean that the older injury can't be treated effectively; it just takes longer and the type of treatment is a little different because we need to focus on longer-term damage to tissues and possible compensatory habits you may have developed.

My best recommendation for treating injuries? Get them treated soon, and you'll be back to your athletic self before you know it!

Fun in the Sun... with Sunscreen!

2009-06-08T11:40:00.007-04:00

It's almost summer in New York, which means it's time for shorts, tank tops, sandals, and bathing suits. All that adds up to a lot of exposed skin, so sunscreen is crucial! While you should wear sunscreen all year round, it is especially important when your skin is exposed to the sun, and when you're more likely to be spending the day at the park or sunbathing at the beach.

There has been some debate lately about a few aspects of sunscreen. What's the difference between UVA and UVB? What SPF should you wear? Is SPF 75 really better than SPF 55? Is sunscreen good for the environment? Here are a couple of links to sites that answer these questions and more:

DailyBeauty - myths and facts about sunscreen. (By the way, there is little difference between SPF 30 and SPF 60 when it comes to blocking UVB rays, but you should always wear a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30!)

Skin Deep sunscreen database - look up your sunscreen and see how it rates. The folks at Skin Deep look at sunscreens and other cosmetics from the perspective of the safety of the ingredients for you and the environment. (This group likes the brands California Baby and Badger, which are usually available at Ricky's Drugstore in NYC and Whole Foods, respectively.)

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - this useful fact sheet (which opens as a PDF) recommends broad-spectrum sunscreens (those that help protect against UVA and UVB rays). And remember that one application of sunscreen will not protect you for a whole day of swimming and sweating, so reapply at least every 2 hours. You should wear about one ounce at a time, which is roughly equivalent to a shot glass - most people under-apply their sunscreen.

We look forward to summer so we can spend our days in the sun, and the sun offers important health benefits (like vitamin D), but be sure to protect yourself with sunscreen, sunglasses, large hats, and loose or lightweight clothing that covers your skin. Taking these simple steps will keep your skin healthy and beautiful for years to come. Happy summer!