What is it? Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder marked by chronic inflammation in many organs and connective tissues of the body. Symptoms depend on the area of the body that is attacked and may change as the disorder progresses. Most common symptoms include: joint pain and swelling fatigue hair loss mood changes…
Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease. It causes severe damage to the lungs and digestive system and sufferers have a greatly reduced quality of life. The disease is due to a mutation that affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat, and digestive secretions. Instead of being thin and slippery, these secretions become sticky and…
Coffee can be a controversial topic. There are clear coffee benefits and some downsides. I quit caffeine cold turkey when I switched to a vegan diet in 2008 (I do not eat vegan any longer). I remained caffeine and coffee-free for about 2 years. Before 2008, I could drink a 160z coffee at 8 pm,…
I find one of my greatest challenges, is helping my patients understand all that acupuncture can do! It isn’t just for pain. Although, it does a fantastic job of relieving pain. Here is a list of some of the things acupuncture can do for you: heal injuries relieve pain improve digestion improve sleep reduce stress…
Overactive bladder affects as many as 1 in 6 adults in the United States and becomes more common with age. The following signs and symptoms mark the condition: Urgency: You feel a sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to control. Frequency: You urinate 8 or more times in 24 hours. Nocturia: You awaken two…
Acupuncture sessions come with side effects. Fortunately, they don’t read like the typical advertisement for prescription meds. If you have ever read the small print that comes with a prescription medication, you were probably alarmed at the long list of potential “side effects”. Most people never read anything about the medication they are prescribed, and therefore…
1. Neurotransmitter Theory Acupuncture affects higher brain areas, stimulating the secretion of beta-endorphins and enkephalins in the brain and spinal cord. The release of neurotransmitters influences the immune system and the antinociceptive system. 7,8,9 2. Autonomic Nervous System Theory Acupuncture stimulates the release of norepinephrine, acetylcholine and several other types of opioids, affecting changes in…
Tis the season for stuffy noses. Many people find they have sinus congestion this time of year, especially in the mornings and evenings. Your sinus congestion may be due to allergies, the weather, or a cold. You may have accepted that you will just have to live with your compromised breathing throughout winter. Side effects…
(This is adapted from Clare Mallory O’Nan’s thoughtful Facebook post) Many of my patients have been asking me about dry needling lately. Dry needling (DN) is included in the scope of practice of physical therapists (PTs) in Colorado, which is why you’re hearing the term more and more. As it gains in popularity, many people are…
12 subtle signs of stress Often people aren’t aware that they are stressed or to what degree. Stress can sneak up on us as we go about our busy lives. We might think we are doing fine, not recognizing the subtle signs. I will think I am managing my stress pretty well, despite the fact…
