What Can Chinese Medicine Treat?

Chinese medicine can be used effectively in treating a wide variety of conditions. Modern scientific research has shed light on some of the physiological mechanisms affected by Chinese medicine (and its various modalities including acupuncture, cupping, moxabustion, herbal therapies, etc). These neuromodulating mechanisms include the release of endorphins, activation of opioid receptors and regulation of the autonomic nervous system. This section outlines some common issues we commonly see in our clinic and have extensive experience treating. Please explore the following list for more information. Let us know if you have questions about a concern that isn’t listed here, i.e., “What about hives?” or “Can you help me with my insomnia and anxiety?” Chinese medicine is a comprehensive system, and we can give you appropriate approaches for your concerns.

Pain Management
In Chinese medicine, we recognize that Qi, or energy, must flow freely throughout the body. Where there is blockage, there is pain. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are effective for many types of pain including:

• Musculoskeletal pain
• Menstrual pain
• Headaches & migraines

Cancer Support
Acupuncture helps moderate the side effects of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery which can include:

• Pain
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Neuropathy
• Brain fog
• Hot flashes
• Anxiety
• Depression

We recognize the unique challenges that present when faced with a cancer diagnosis. We are dedicated to supporting your healing and helping you learn as much as possible from your body during this time. We offer nutritional advice, meditation techniques, acupuncture, and herbal formulas to help with the symptoms and with stress while you are undergoing prescribed conventional medical treatments and afterwards to rebuild your body, a critically important time to use the wisdom of Chinese medicine.

Anxiety & Depression
Chinese medicine understands emotions as part of the whole being. Some emotions arise from the physical state of the body, while at other times emotions can influence one’s physical state. If an emotion is very intense or long-lasting, it can lead to imbalances in the body. For example, anxiety can be related to worry, fear, shock and a number of other emotions. Combined with over work and without adequate rest, these emotions can lead to deficiencies that can be diagnosed in terms of Chinese medicine. Our approach is to first understand the presenting pattern unique to each person. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, food therapy, and lifestyle advice are all important tools in helping to reduce anxiety or relieve depression.

Digestive Disorders
A classical Chinese medical text states that all health and healing begins with a treatment of the “center”, meaning the digestive organs. The proper functioning of the stomach, spleen and liver are essential for overall health. Chinese medicine offers custom approaches to conditions such as acid reflux, chronic constipation or diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. Management often includes a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, food therapy, and lifestyle guidance in order to harmonize these systems.

Fertility Support
If you are struggling with conception or have been diagnosed with specific or nonspecific infertility, Chinese medicine can help maximize your fertility. Acupuncture and herbal medicine can help regulate your menstrual cycle, balance the follicular and luteal phases, and normalize ovulation. It can also increase blood flow to the uterus, leading to increased fertility and at the same time, reduce stress and anxiety that often surrounds reproductive medicine.

Acupuncture and herbal medicine can also help heal the body and spirit after experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth or ectopic pregnancies. This rebalancing is essential for future full-term pregnancies.

Pregnancy & Postpartum Care
Chinese medicine can safely be used throughout pregnancy to reduce nausea, cramping, back pain, headaches, and anxiety. Many women find that regular acupuncture during pregnancy reduces stress which provides a better environment for the fetus. Acupuncture is also commonly used to prepare women for labor.

After delivery, acupuncture, herbal medicine, and food therapy can be used to promote milk flow, reduce mastitis, help with recovery from labor, reduce pain, and relieve postpartum depression. Some women also experience postpartum sweating, joint pain or excessive bleeding—all of which can be relieved with Chinese medicine.