Acupuncture for ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) disorders
The Chinese character "zhen jiu" is translated literally as the combination of acupuncture and moxibustion. These two modalities are among the most commonly used techniques in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Acupuncture involves the manipulation of needles, which are inserted into various points on the meridians. The needles are then lifted-thrusted or twirled-rotated to regulate the function of zang and fu organs, rebalance yin and yang, and relieve pain or achieve other therapeutic purposes. Moxibustion, on the other hand, involves the burning of mugwort, a small, spongy herb. This technique can be used indirectly with acupuncture needles or directly by applying heat above the skin to facilitate healing. In Acupuncture Services, moxibustion is substituted by an infrared heat lamp. According to TCM theory, the manipulation of acupuncture needles and/or moxibustion can regulate the patterns of energy flow ("qi") and blood ("xue") through the body, which are essential for good health. These techniques can also correct imbalances in the flow of qi and blood that are the root cause of many diseases, due to the disorder of zang and fu imbalance of "qi" or "xue."
Possible Mechanisms of Acupuncture:
In terms of physiology and biochemistry, the potential mechanisms of acupuncture for non-pain conditions are still unclear. However, for various pains, some potential mechanisms have been proposed:
1. Modulating the receptors and ion channels in the periphery by blocking pain-related ion channels and increasing pain thresholds.
2. Inhibiting activation of protein kinases and glia in the spinal cord
Studies have shown that the manipulation of acupuncture needles results in deformation of connective tissues and alters the structure of fibroblasts locally. Such micro-injury caused by the puncturing of the acupuncture needle in the skin results in the release of ATP, further broken down into adenosine and other purines that act as anti-nociception agents that block pain and anti-inflammation through purinergic receptors. Also, the manipulation of acupuncture needles could result in profound effects on the nervous system remotely, including the regulation of key areas of the brain (Arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus when stimulated <2Hz and Parabrachial nucleus when stimulated at 100Hz). These improved functions of the brain areas result in the body producing its own natural chemicals, such as Endogenous Opioid Peptides (EOPs), involved in pain relief and down regulating inflammatory mediators such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), achieving the effects of reducing inflammation in acute, sub-acute, and chronic inflammation, as well as releasing neurotransmitters that create a feeling of relaxation and well-being.
Acupuncture for Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Conditions:
Because the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) are susceptible to external factors like cold, wind, moisture, and dryness, they can easily succumb to illness and infection. Under the guidance of TCM theories, which teach that the sensory organs are connected to the internal organs: The ear is connected to the Kidney; the nose is associated with the Lung, while the throat is related to the Stomach, Lung, and Spleen. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs treat ENT disorders by assessing the internal organs rather than just focusing on the symptoms and signs, therefore getting to the root of the issue. Besides, many ENT disorders are brought on by stress, excess tension, and related weakness in the immune system, all of which respond extremely well to TCM approaches. Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for many ENT conditions, including dizziness, earaches, hay fever, nerve deafness, tinnitus, sinusitis, postnasal drip, sore throat, dysphonia, and cough. There are safe and natural solutions to many common ear, nose, and throat problems. We offer a wide range of acupuncture services to meet your healthcare needs. Many of our patients are suffering from ENT disorders and have tried other treatment approaches with little success. You are encouraged to try Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), an alternative medicine for ENT conditions. We specialize in the treatment of Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears), Hearing loss, Earaches, Dizziness, Hay Fever or Allergic Rhinitis, Sinusitis, Sore throat, Bell's palsy,and some other ENT associated diseases list bellow.
Some of the more common conditions encountered in our practice are:
Hoarseness, Ear Infections, TMJ, Nasal Obstruction, toothache, Difficulty Swallow, Chronic Cough. Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD) & Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR), Common Chemo-therapy side effects(nausea/Vomiting /fatigue/decreased appetite/dry mouth and constipation)