Feng's Medical Acupuncture & Massage

12/17/2023

Sciatica? This traditional Chinese modality can help!

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed, leading to pain that travels down the back or the side of the leg. This compression can be due to the impingement of nerve roots at different points in the spine or inflammation affecting the sciatic nerve itself.

So how can acupuncture help with sciatica pain?

👉Pain Management: Acupuncture can help reduce pain by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. It may also block pain signals from reaching the brain and help relax tense muscles around the sciatic nerve, which can contribute to pain relief.

👉Inflammation Reduction: Acupuncture may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for sciatica caused by inflammation or irritation of the sciatic nerve. By reducing inflammation, acupuncture may alleviate some of the pain associated with sciatica.

👉Improved Blood Circulation: Acupuncture can enhance blood circulation to the affected area, which may help in the healing process and reduce pain and discomfort associated with sciatica.

👉Nerve Function: Some proponents of acupuncture believe that it can help improve nerve function and reduce nerve-related pain. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, the treatment may encourage nerve regeneration and better transmission of nerve signals.

👉Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Sciatica pain can often be exacerbated by stress and muscle tension. Acupuncture sessions can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and alleviate muscle tension, which may indirectly help with sciatica pain.

The best way to achieve above👆 benefits, you want to visit a registered acupuncturist. However, if you are not able to see an acupuncturist right away, you can try following 👇acupressure points at home:

📍B48 (Bladder 48) - Yanggang: Located in the lower back, about 3 inches to 4 inches lateral to the spine and slightly below the waistline. Press this point with your thumb or knuckles for a few minutes on both sides to help relieve lower back pain and sciatica.

📍GB30 (Gallbladder 30) - Huantiao: Found in the buttock area, just below the hip joint and slightly towards the outer edge of the body. Pressing this point may relieve hip and lower back pain, which can be related to sciatica.

📍B54 (Bladder 54) - Zhibian: Located in the crease of the buttocks, about two-thirds of the way from the sacrum (the base of the spine) to the hip joint. Applying pressure to this point may help with buttock pain associated with sciatica.

📍GB34 (Gallbladder 34) - Yanglingquan: Located on the outside of the lower leg, just below the knee joint. Pressing this point may help with pain radiating down the leg and promote overall pain relief.

📍LI4 (Large Intestine 4) - Hegu: Found on the back of the hand between the thumb and index finger. This point is believed to help with pain management and general relaxation.

If your pain persists without any signs of improvement, it is advisable to seek medical assistance from a healthcare professional.

Interested in giving acupuncture a try? Book your first acupuncture appointment with Feng's Medical Acupuncture & Massage!

12/09/2023

Today is all about foot 🦶

Foot massage on acupuncture points, also known as reflexology, is a practice that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet to stimulate corresponding areas or organs in the body.

Here are some benefits that people often associate with foot massage on acupuncture points:

1️⃣Relaxation and Stress Reduction:
The act of massage itself can induce relaxation and help reduce stress. Some people believe that the stimulation of certain points on the feet can trigger the release of endorphins, promoting an overall sense of well-being.

2️⃣Improved Circulation:
Foot massage may help improve blood circulation, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the cells and removing waste products.

3️⃣Pain Relief:
Advocates of reflexology suggest that massaging specific points on the feet may alleviate pain in corresponding areas of the body.
It is believed to work by stimulating nerve pathways and promoting the release of pain-relieving substances.

4️⃣Enhanced Energy Flow:
According to traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology, massaging specific points on the feet can help balance the flow of energy (Qi or Chi) in the body, promoting overall health.

5️⃣Improved Sleep 💤:
Some individuals report improved sleep quality and better relaxation after a foot massage, which may be attributed to the stress-relieving effects.

6️⃣Promotion of General Well-being:
Reflexology is often seen as a holistic approach to well-being, with the belief that stimulating certain points on the feet can have positive effects on the entire body.

In conclusion, foot acupuncture, or reflexology, offers a range of potential benefits that extend beyond mere relaxation. Many people find foot acupuncture to be a soothing practice that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and may contribute to an overall sense of well-being. However, it's important to approach foot acupuncture as a complementary practice rather than a substitute for medical care, and individuals with specific health concerns should consult with healthcare professionals.

If you'd like to book a consultation with our chief acupuncturist Dr. Feng, you can message us here ☝️

12/06/2023

Frozen shoulder? Acupuncture can help 😉

Today, we will focus on how acupuncture can help with frozen shoulder. What acupressure points 👉you can massage on your own at home to alleviate the discomfort.

Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint, leading to pain and stiffness😫. It occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, called the shoulder capsule💊, becomes thickened and tight. This tightening can restrict movement and cause significant discomfort.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow (Qi) and promote natural healing. It is often considered as a complementary therapy for various health conditions, including frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis).

Frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. Acupuncture for frozen shoulder is believed to work by:

👉Pain Relief: Acupuncture may help alleviate pain associated with frozen shoulder. The insertion of needles at specific points is thought to trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.

💪Muscle Relaxation: Acupuncture may promote muscle relaxation, reducing tension and stiffness in the shoulder muscles. This can potentially improve range of motion and ease discomfort.

👉Inflammation Reduction: Some proponents of acupuncture suggest that it may have anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial for conditions involving joint inflammation, such as frozen shoulder.

💨proved Qi Flow: In traditional Chinese medicine theory, health is believed to be maintained when the flow of Qi is balanced. Acupuncture is thought to restore this balance, promoting overall well-being and potentially addressing the underlying causes of conditions like frozen shoulder.

🔘Acupressure points:

👉Zhongping (Left lower limbs)
👉LI 14 (Right).
👉Ashi (Points where the patient feels pain during palpatory examination)

These acupoints were selected based on the acupuncture point selections on Traditional Chinese Medicine meridian theory to treat frozen shoulder, belongs to “Bi” syndrome.

Light massage pact major + minor muscle

Combining massage techniques focused on both major and minor muscles, along with acupressure points 👆, and incorporating targeted home exercises can be an effective approach in alleviating symptoms associated with a frozen shoulder.

Book your consultation appointment with our chief acupuncturist Dr. Feng to find out in person how traditional acupuncture can help improving your quality of life right away 🥰

12/01/2023

Ever wonder how acupuncture works? Watch this video from Dr. Alex Hui

Enjoy 😃

Acupuncture is still not widely popular in North America. Therefore as an Acupuncturist living in Canada, I get asked many questions about my profession. The...

11/30/2023

"By regulating yin and yang to reinforce health and eliminate the pathogenic, thus improving sleep." - National Institute of Health

Today, we will discus insomnia and how can acupuncture help improving your sleep quality.🥱 Don't fall asleep 😴 Although we will be pleased if you did 😉

Here we go 👍

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or both, even if you have ample time and a bedroom environment conducive to restful sleep.

There are many factors that can cause insomnia.
🚩Stress and anxiety
🚩Poor sleeping environment – such as an uncomfortable bed, noise
🚩Lifestyle factors – such as jet lag, shift work, or drinking alcohol or caffeine before going to bed
🚩Mental health conditions – such as depression
🚩Physical health conditions – such as heart problems
🚩Certain medicines – such as some antidepressants, epilepsy medicines and steroid medication

So how can acupuncture help with insomnia.
Studies show that acupuncture can decrease anxiety, stimulate melatonin production, induce sleep and reduce sleep disruption.

If you are experience insomnia, try following acupressure points at home 👇

➡️An Mian (Also known as Peaceful Dreams)
The point is located on the head, about an inch from the soft depression immediately behind the earlobe towards the back of the head.
➡️Yong Quan
Yong Yuan located between the ball of your foot and your second or third toes in the same line. The most tender area is the best one to work with.
➡️Shen Men
This spot is located on the inner wrist (slightly to the side, close to the spot where people usually measure their pulse).
➡️Yin Tang
Yin Tang is located in the center of both eyebrows in line with the nose and is often referred to the area of the 'third eye'.
➡️San Yin Jiao
San Yin Jiao is located inside of the leg, on the highest point of the ankle, near the curved ball-like bone.
➡️Bai Hui
Located at the top of the head, Bai Hui is most easily found by finding the high point of your ear and then sliding up to the top of your head.

If you'd like to know more and curious about how it works and how acupuncture can help with sleep difficulties, give us a call 🥰

Feng's Medical Acupuncture & Massage

11/28/2023

Today's topic: can acupuncture help with psoriasis? 🤨

Well, short answer is YES 🥳 and here is how3️⃣2️⃣1️⃣✅

"Psoriasis is a common chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease, which may have considerable detrimental effects on the quality of life. Considering high costs and side effects associated with the use of conventional medications, acupuncture, as one of complementary and alternative nonpharmacological therapies, is commonly used in the management of psoriasis for reducing itching, repairing the skin lesions, etc." according to journal article published in National Library of Medicine.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8154484/

Acupuncture belongs to a broad family of clinical techniques, producing therapeutic effects by stimulating acupoints. Acupuncture therapy can directly affect the local vascular system, inhibit the increase of vascular permeability in the process of inflammation, and reduce the local infiltration of inflammatory substances, so as to achieve the purpose of treating psoriasis.

Acupuncture has been shown to promote the release of the body’s own natural painkillers, reduce inflammation, decrease stress, and improve blood flow.

Acupuncture can help with the following symptoms of psoriasis:

➡️Red, burning skin lesions
➡️Itching
➡️Dry, scaling, flaking of skin
➡️Joint pain
➡️Depression and anxiety

Large number of individuals with psoriasis suffer emotionally: they often report experiencing anxiety, depression, shame, low self-esteem, etc.

Acupuncture can have wonderful regulating effects on the nervous system and help individuals reduce their stress and anxiety. It is for this exact reason that many western doctors are open to acupuncture. Acupuncture’s effect on reducing stress is well documented. Since stress and anxiety can exacerbate autoimmune diseases, many doctors are open to having their patients try acupuncture for its calming benefits.

If you'd like to book a consultation with our chief acupuncturist Dr. Feng, please do not hesitate to call us or send us a message. ☺️

11/24/2023

To our American patients: Happy Thanksgiving 🦃

Thanksgiving is a time for families and friends to come together, express gratitude, and enjoy a festive meal. After a big turkey meal, many people might experience bloating or even constipation.

Today's topic is focusing on How Acupuncture Relieves Bloating & Restores Digestive Harmony.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), bloating is often seen because of disrupted Qi flow in the body. Through the stimulation of particular points, acupuncture has the potential to promote equilibrium and relieve pain and discomfort.

Customized acupuncture sessions designed to tackle bloating may concentrate on balancing the entire digestive system. This strategy entails bolstering the functionality of organs like the Stomach, Spleen, Liver, and other pertinent components. By optimizing the digestive processes, acupuncture has the potential to diminish bloating and enhance the overall health of the gastrointestinal system.

The following five meridian points specifically target disrupted Qi related to digestion. Applying acupuncture to these points or gently massaging them can provide instant relief from bloating and other symptoms of indigestion.

1. Zu San Li

Zu San Li, which translates as “leg 3 miles,” is acupoint 36 on the stomach meridian (ST36). Its position is 3 centimeters (cm) below the knee joint along the outer edge of the shin bone.

2. Hegu

Hegu is acupoint 4 on the large intestine meridian (LI4). Hegu translates roughly as “junction valley.” LI4’s position is in the fleshy depression betweenTrusted Source the thumb and index finger, where the two metacarpal bones meet.

3. Nei Guan

Nei Guan is pressure point 6 on the pericardium meridian (P6). Nei Guan may translate as “inner pass.” Its location is on the inner arm around 3 finger breadths toward the body from the wrist crease between the palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis muscles.

4. Tian Shu

Tian Shu, translated as “celestial pivot,” lies on the stomach meridian at point 25 (ST25). ST25 is on the upper abdomen and 2 thumb widthsTrusted Source to the side of the navel.

5. Zhongwan

Zhongwan, which translates as “middle epigastrium,” is on the conception vessel meridian at acupoint 12 (CV12). CV12 is around 4 thumb widths above the center of the navel.

If you want to give acupuncture a try, please contact Feng's Medical Acupuncture & Massage for your initial appointment.

11/22/2023

If you'd like to give acupuncture a try, you can book your first consultation with us 😇

Your path to harmony & wellness is within reach

11/21/2023

Today's topic: how can acupuncture help with migraines?

Ever experienced a throbbing headache that seems to hijack your day? 🤯 Welcome to the world of migraines!

Migraines are more than just headaches; they're a complex neurological condition often characterized by intense pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and, in some cases, nausea.

The causes of migraines are diverse and can include genetic factors, hormonal changes, stress, certain foods, and even environmental triggers.

The good news is that acupuncture can help to reduce the severity of migraine, and here is how:

1.Endorphin Release: Acupuncture may stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. Endorphins can help alleviate pain and induce a sense of well-being, potentially reducing the intensity of migraines.

2. Blood Flow Regulation: Acupuncture may affect blood flow and circulation. Some researchers believe that certain acupuncture points are associated with increased blood flow, which could contribute to reduced pain and improved overall well-being.

3. Neurotransmitter Regulation: Acupuncture may influence the levels and activity of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters play a role in regulating mood, pain perception, and other physiological functions. By modulating these neurotransmitters, acupuncture may impact the development and severity of migraines.

4. Stress Reduction: Acupuncture is known for its stress-reducing and relaxing effects. Stress is a common trigger for migraines in some individuals, and by promoting relaxation, acupuncture may help manage stress-related migraine episodes.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Migraines are associated with inflammation, and acupuncture may have anti-inflammatory effects. By reducing inflammation, acupuncture might help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with migraines.

Watch the following video from our beloved Dr. Alex Hui to learn some easy to follow acupoint massage techniques to battle the war on migraines.

*It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, and keep them updated on the alternative medicine modalities you are receiving. *

In this video I will share some effective pressure points that can relieve a migraine headache in a matter of minutes.ABOUT DR. ALEX HUIDr. Alex Hui (Dr.TCM,...

11/19/2023

Today's topic: Acupuncture for allergies, for both human and pets.

I am a dog owner, and one of the concerns I heard the most about dogs are allergies. Whether it's seasonal allergies, environmental allergies or the most common, food allergies.

Most pet parents use acupuncture treatment to help their pets to alleviate pain. However, acupuncture can be a great modality to treat allergies, and here is how.

Acupuncture can balance and strengthen the imbalances that may be contributing to the allergic reactions. Veterinary acupuncture therapy is often a beneficial method for addressing allergic dermatitis in many dogs.

The following four acupressure points are known to support and strengthen the immune system. and help the canine body naturally withstand allergies:

Large Intestine 11 (LI 11) – Enhances the immune system, reduces itching (pruritus) and benefits skin disorders.

Large Intestine 4 (LI 4) – Used for allergic dermatological issues and benefits the immune system.

Lung 7 (Lu 7) – Benefits skin issues, especially abdominal itching, and strengthens the immune system.

Bladder 17 (Bl 17) – Enhances blood flow to nourish and moisten skin while building immune-stimulation.

Courtesy: https://animalwellnessmagazine.com/acupressure-dogs-skin-allergies/

11/17/2023

Today's topic: how acupuncture help with lactation in new mothers.

Many new moms encounter challenges related to breastmilk production. While a lactation consultant is always recommended, acupuncture and acupressure are excellent alternative one can try in a clinic and/or at home.

Acupuncture is highly effective in strengthening qi, promoting the development and nourishment of blood, and eliminating blockages in the breast. Specific points can encourage the downward flow of breast milk. In the presence of intense emotions, additional points can be utilized to promote a smoother flow. An acupuncture point located at the tip of the small finger, known as "shao ze" or smaller marsh, is particularly targeted for addressing insufficient lactation.

11/16/2023

Great stroke prevention video from Dr. Alex Hui

Stroke attacks are deadly and can affect an entire families' lives forever. This week I would like to show you 5 Simple Massage techniques that can help to p...

11/16/2023

Today's topic:
Acupuncture for stroke patients.

Stroke is assumed as one of the common cerebrovascular diseases that endangers human health and life.

Acupuncture has been well accepted by patients and is widely used to improve motor, sensation, speech, and other neurological functions in patients with stroke.

The most frequently used acupoints in basic studies include Baihui (GV20), Zusanli (ST36), Quchi (LI11), Shuigou (GV26), Dazhui (GV14), and Hegu (LI4).

MTF

11/14/2023

Acupuncture Treatment for Fertility

A 4-minutes-long patient friendly video that summarises the research on how acupuncture enhances natural fertility. Compiled by Irina Szmelskyj, https://true...

11/14/2023

Does acupuncture actually work for fertility???

According to journal article Acupuncture Treatment for Fertility published in National Library of Medicine, "About 8-12% of the couples in the world are facing problems with infertility, and in this modern times the per cent is getting bigger, and 20% of the cases are due to both male and female factor. "

Studies indicate that acupuncture is highly effective in dealing with infertility concerns in both men and women. This method has proven success in boosting fertility by positively influencing s***m quality and ovarian function, while also promoting harmony in the endocrine system and maintaining hormonal balance in patients.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvzgDkoxuEs&t=187s

11/13/2023

Acupuncture for Low-Back Pain:

Low-back pain affects 84% of the world's population. At present, no method of treatment can be considered as the method of choice. Acupuncture is effective, scientific, cost-effective, and free from major side-effects.

Below are some acupressure points will help to alleviate the back pain:

1. Stomach acupressure point: This acupressure point (CV6) is located 2 fingers below the belly button. Apply firm pressure with your index or middle finger.

2. Lower back acupressure points: These points are situated on both sides on the lower back, 2 finger widths (B23) and 4 finger widths (B47) from the spine at waist level, on each side of the spinal cord.

Place your hands on your waist and move your thumbs towards the spine to locate the points, then apply firm pressure.

3. Hip bone acupressure points: These points are situated on both sides on the hip bone, approximately two finger widths from the large bony area at the bottom of your spine (B48), and midway between the top of your hipbone and the base of your buttocks (GB30).

Apply gentle pressure with your 2 thumbs on these 2 pressure points on each side.

4. Knee acupressure points: 2 knee points are located at the centre of the backspace of the knee (B54), and 2 are slightly towards the outside (B53).

Sit down with your legs straight or stand up and place your hands on the side of your knee.

With your index or middle fingers locate the points in the hollow of the knee and press firmly.

5. Hand acupressure points: This point is located 2 finger widths from the joint of the thumb and index finger.

6. Foot acupressure points: This point is located between your big toe and second toe (Liv3), 2 fingers widths above from where they join.

Courtesy: https://www.bluetree-massage.com/en/6-self-acupressure-points-to-relieve-back-pain/