Respiratory Conditions

 

In Chinese medicine colds and allergies are called "wind invasions," caused by air-born irritants like pathogens and pollen. A special type of chi called wei-chi circulates on the outer layers of our body, fortifying and protecting us against these invasions. Symptoms occur when either the pathogen is strong, overwhelming our defenses, or when our wei-chi is too weak to keep them out. The main treatment principles in these cases are to strengthen the wei-chi and eliminate the pathogen.

 

Many acupuncture points are beneficial for immunity. Some treat specific symptoms, like the points on side of the nose which are excellent for sinus congestion. Other points that may be used include those located on the lung channel on the arm, including ones that boost immunity, stop coughs, and clear infections. There are even points that can help your body eliminate pathogens by inducing a sweat. As we all know, when we are sick and we break a sweat, symptoms like fever typically resolve, signaling the beginning of the recovery phase.

 

I have treated many different types of immune conditions such as seasonal allergies, asthma, sinusitis, rhinitis, chronic congestion, colds, flu, sinus and respiratory infections, chronic coughs, and low immunity. Many people don't think of acupuncture for these sorts of conditions, especially when it comes to acute infections like the common cold, but it is a very effective treatment.

 

Chinese medicine is so much more than just acupuncture. I am also trained in herbal medicine, 5 element nutrition, and different types of traditional hands-on techniques. I find that these complementary therapies can help enhance the effects of acupuncture. If they would be beneficial for your condition I will include them with your session at no extra charge. For example, there are formulas for allergies, congestion, cough, sore throats, respiratory infections, and low immunity that can help address your symptoms from the inside out. Sometimes nutritional adjustments can help, for example, if there is chronic congestion. Hands-on techniques are beneficial as well, like using acupressure to help open the sinuses, or tui na techniques to loosen phlegm lodged in the lungs. My toolbox includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, tui na (Chinese medical massage), zhi ya (acupressure), chi nei tsang (abdominal massage) ba guan (cupping), gua sha (massage with jade and horn tools), topical herbal formulas for pain, and 5 element nutrition.