Acupuncture Today
Acupuncture Today is a national publication serving licensed acupuncturists and doctors of traditional medicine. It provides news and product information for the profession, reaching over 30,000 practitioners and students through print and online editions each month.
Episodes
Spirits of the Points: The Gallbladder (Pt. 6)
Delving deeper than mere anatomical locations, this article explores the psycho-emotional "spirit" of several key points on the Gallbladder channel, as taught in the Five Element tradition of J.R. Worsley. This installment focuses on the unique therapeutic virtues of points that help govern our capacity for judgment, decision-making, and perseverance. GB 25, "Capital Gate," serves as a ga
Polarity and Frequency in Electroacupuncture
Electroacupuncture (EA) is a powerful tool in the modern clinic, but its full potential is only unlocked when applied with precision and intention. Too often, polarity and frequency settings are chosen without a clear theoretical basis, which can lead to suboptimal results or even adverse effects like agitation and insomnia. This article provides a clear framework for EA by integrating cl
Beyond Pain Relief: Distal Acupuncture for Restoring Muscle Recruitment in Microtrauma (Pt. 2)
In cases of microtrauma, the site of pain is often not the source of the problem. Instead, it’s a symptom of a deeper issue: the nervous system has lost reliable control over a specific movement, forcing other tissues to compensate and become irritated. This article outlines a systematic, six-step clinical approach that uses distal acupuncture to restore proper muscle function, treating t
Hypnopuncture: A Neurophysiological Model for Integrating Hypnosis Into Acupuncture Practice
Bridging the ancient wisdom of acupuncture with modern neuroscience, the concept of "hypnopuncture" emerges as a powerful, evidence-informed evolution in mind-body medicine. This approach integrates the principles of clinical hypnosis with acupuncture, capitalizing on their synergistic neurophysiological effects to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Far from a parlor trick, hypnosis is a measu
NBC “Chicago Med” Episode Outrages Acupuncturists Nationwide
The acupuncture community was left horrified and outraged by a recent episode of the popular NBC drama “Chicago Med,” which featured a grossly inaccurate and sensationalized depiction of the profession. The scene portrayed a woman being wheeled into an emergency room with dozens of needles embedded in her back like a porcupine, supposedly after a fall. Practitioners across the country swi
Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Functional Dyspepsia
Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a challenging disorder characterized by persistent upper-gastrointestinal discomfort that significantly diminishes quality of life. This research summary highlights a promising non-invasive therapy: transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS). The study investigated whether stimulating specific points in the ear's conchal region could alleviate FD
Medicare Advantage Recoupment of Acupuncture Payments
A troubling trend is emerging for acupuncturists navigating the complex world of insurance billing: Medicare Advantage Plans (MAPs) are attempting to retroactively recoup payments. This article clarifies the critical distinction between traditional Medicare and MAPs, and provides a defense strategy for practitioners. While traditional Medicare statutorily excludes stand-alone acupuncturis
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: Hiding in Plain Sight
Often hiding in plain sight, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a pervasive yet frequently overlooked condition affecting over 15% of the U.S. population. Its wide-ranging and seemingly disconnected symptoms—from skin rashes, hives, and digestive distress to tachycardia, brain fog, and sudden anxiety—make it a diagnostic chameleon, eluding even experienced clinicians. This article se
Protecting Jing in Modern Women (Pt. 1)
In classical Chinese medicine, jing, or essence, is the sacred foundation of life, governing our growth, fertility, and longevity. While traditionally, jing depletion was seen as a natural part of aging, a concerning new trend is emerging. Women in their 30s are now presenting with symptoms of essence depletion once reserved for much later in life. The relentless pace of modern society—fu
Guarding the Essence
One of the great strengths of Chinese medicine is its ability to identify and treat underlying deficiencies of qi, blood, and yin/essence. This article emphasizes a proactive approach to protecting these vital substances, especially in anticipation of draining seasons like the long, hot summers in Texas. Instead of waiting for depletion to set in, the focus should be on "guarding the esse
Know Your Clinical Flags: 5 Colors to Consider
In any clinical practice, patient safety is the highest priority. A crucial aspect of ensuring this safety is the ability to recognize "clinical flags"—warning signs that may indicate a serious underlying condition requiring immediate medical attention or a referral. This article provides a clear and practical framework for practitioners by organizing these warnings into a five-color syst
In Memoriam: Neal Stuart Miller, LAc
The acupuncture and Oriental medicine community mourns the passing of a cherished colleague, mentor, and pioneer, Neal Stuart Miller, LAc. This tribute celebrates the life and profound contributions of a practitioner whose dedication left an indelible mark on the profession. The article reflects on Neal's journey into the healing arts, his passion for patient care, and his unwavering comm
The Alchemy of Listening
In the landscape of Traditional Chinese Medicine, diagnosis is an art form, and its most fundamental tool is often the most overlooked: deep, intentional listening. This article explores the concept of listening as a transformative, alchemical process that turns a patient's story into a clear diagnostic picture and a powerful therapeutic bond. It moves beyond the simple act of hearing sym
Beyond Pain Relief: Distal Acupuncture for Restoring Muscle Recruitment in Microtrauma (Pt. 1)
While acupuncture is widely celebrated for its remarkable ability to alleviate pain, its therapeutic potential extends far deeper, particularly into the realm of neuromuscular function. This clinical article, the first in a series, ventures beyond simple pain relief to explore the sophisticated application of distal acupuncture in treating microtrauma and restoring proper muscle recruitme
Evidence-Based Practice: A Practical Tech Guide for TCM Practitioners and Students
In an increasingly data-driven healthcare landscape, the ability to integrate modern research with traditional wisdom is paramount for the success and credibility of TCM. This article serves as an essential, practical guide for practitioners and students looking to confidently embrace evidence-based practice (EBP). It demystifies the process of finding, appraising, and applying scientific
Classification and Determination of TCM Constitution: China's New National Standard
Traditional Chinese Medicine has long recognized that each individual possesses a unique constitutional makeup that influences their health, susceptibility to disease, and response to treatment. This informative article explores a landmark development in the standardization of this core concept: China's new national standard for the classification and determination of TCM constitution. Th
Profession at a Crossroads: What Must Change
The acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine profession stands at a critical juncture, filled with both immense opportunity and significant challenges. This thought-provoking article presents a bold analysis of the current state of the profession and argues for strategic, transformative change to ensure its future vitality and growth. The author identifies key areas at this crossroads
May I Be the Medicine: How to Find Deep Motivation in Practice
In the demanding world of healthcare, practitioners can often face burnout, losing touch with the passion that initially drew them to the healing arts. This reflective article explores the concept of the practitioner as the medicine, suggesting that our own presence, intention, and internal state are as crucial as any technique we apply. It guides readers on a journey to rediscover their
Acupuncture for Chronic Low Back Pain in Older Adults: Effectiveness & Cost-Effectiveness
Chronic low back pain is a debilitating condition that significantly impacts the quality of life for older adults, often leading to decreased mobility and a reliance on pharmaceutical interventions. This article delves into the growing body of evidence supporting acupuncture as a powerful and viable treatment. It moves beyond anecdotal success to present a compelling analysis of clinical
NCBAHM / ASA Helping Position Acupuncturists Within VA Community Care
Integrating acupuncture into mainstream healthcare systems is a crucial step for the profession, and a landmark effort is unfolding within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This article details the pivotal roles of the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (NCBAHM) and the American Society of Acupuncturists (ASA) in positioning licensed acupuncturists as
Herbal Formulas for Ulcerative Colitis: A Clinical Consideration
Managing ulcerative colitis (UC) is notoriously challenging, often resulting in incomplete responses and adverse side effects when relying solely on conventional Western therapies. This article explores five time-tested Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal formulas that offer a powerful, integrative approach to healing the gut. Officially approved by China's National Medical Products
Putting Mitochondrial Health at the Center of Clinical Care
Modern indoor lifestyles and artificial blue lighting are starving our bodies of natural light, leading to widespread mitochondrial dysfunction—a hidden root cause of chronic fatigue, systemic inflammation, and accelerated aging. This article explores the transformative clinical potential of Whole-Body Photobiomodulation (WB-PBM), a cutting-edge therapy that utilizes therapeutic red and n
Electroacupuncture for Post-Stroke Motor Dysfunction: Restoring Neural Function
Ischemic stroke can leave patients with severe motor dysfunction and life-altering disabilities, and current rehabilitation therapies frequently fall short in facilitating full recovery. However, a groundbreaking recent study reveals exactly how electroacupuncture can supercharge the brain's ability to heal itself. By applying targeted electrical stimulation to two specific acupuncture po
It's Time to Stop Prescribing Points
The language we use in healthcare deeply influences our practice, and the phrase "prescribing points" has quietly infiltrated modern acupuncture, bringing with it a flawed pharmaceutical mindset. This article argues that treating acupuncture points like pills—inserting a needle and passively waiting for a result—strips the practice of its true clinical power. Instead of memorizing textboo
Breathing Techniques: Clinical and Practice Benefits
The simple act of breathing is intimately tied to our life force, and harnessing its power can drastically elevate clinical outcomes, especially in severe pain management. This article advocates for teaching simple, accessible breathwork exercises to patients during acupuncture and naturopathic treatments to establish deep trust, calm the nervous system, and maximize the body's natural pa
A Harmonious Point Combination to Treat Constipation During Pregnancy
Constipation is a prevalent and uncomfortable condition during pregnancy, affecting up to half of all expecting mothers due to pressure from an expanding uterus, hormonal shifts that slow digestion, and the use of iron supplements. This article presents a gentle yet highly effective acupuncture point combination to provide natural relief: San Jiao 6 (Zhi Gou) and Stomach 36 (Zu San Li). T
TCM in Elder Care
As the global population ages at an unprecedented rate, modern healthcare systems are facing immense pressure to support senior well-being and maintain quality of life. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides a highly effective, culturally sensitive, and holistic framework to complement conventional elder care. This article details how three core TCM modalities—acupuncture, herbal med
Food Therapy for the Lungs and Stomach
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the kitchen is viewed as a sacred space for cultivating long-term health, and targeted nutrition can often be more impactful than expensive supplements. This article highlights four accessible, therapeutic foods specifically aimed at fortifying the lungs and repairing the spleen and stomach, especially following the digestive damage often caused by a
The Metabolic Vulnerability Index
A groundbreaking and highly affordable new blood test, the Metabolic Vulnerability Index (MVX Plus), is poised to revolutionize functional and integrative medicine by offering unparalleled insights into human health. Utilizing advanced nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, this test measures six crucial biomarkers—including GlycA for inflammation, small HDL particles, citrate for
Facing a Challenging World Through Empowerment & Insight: The Yang Wei Vessel
In an era defined by global anxiety, social upheaval, and climate stress, many people suffer from a collective "heart pain"—a deep, energetic struggle to process the chaos of the external world. This insightful article explores how Traditional Chinese Medicine provides a profound strategy for mental and spiritual resilience through the Yang Wei (Yang Linking) Extraordinary Vessel. Tasked
Bridging the Gaps in Integrative Oncology
Integrative oncology is rapidly transforming cancer care by blending conventional medical treatments with compassionate, holistic therapies like acupuncture and shiatsu massage to profoundly improve patient quality of life. This article draws on the deep, hands-on clinical experiences of dedicated practitioners working directly within hospital oncology wards and chemotherapy infusion cent
Protecting Your Practice in 2026
As healthcare technology evolves, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is increasing its scrutiny of how acupuncturists use digital tools on their websites. A major concern is the use of pixels and cookies for visitor tracking, which can inadvertently transmit protected health information (PHI) to third-party companies. Collecting data as simple as an IP address alongside personalized inform
Bridging Paradigms: Integrating Acupuncture With Western Medicine
Dr. Hua Bing Wen, an experienced practitioner and educator, advocates for the strategic integration of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) into modern healthcare through "medical bilingualism". This concept requires acupuncturists to master two languages: the energetic framework of meridians and the physiological mechanisms of biomedicine, such as inflammatory cytokines and vagal tone. By
Functional Nutrition's HIDDEN Message
Functional nutrition offers a framework to decode complex, chronic conditions like long-COVID and Lyme disease by viewing the body as an interconnected web. The HIDDEN acronym represents six core domains: Hormones, Immune system, Digestion, Detoxification, Energy production, and Nervous system balance. Imbalances in these areas act like a symphony out of tune; for instance, subtle cortiso
Face Diagnosis: The Face as Microcosm
In Chinese medicine, the face serves as a microcosm of a person’s internal health, governed by the principle of biao li—the idea that the exterior manifests the interior. According to traditional physiognomy, every region of the face corresponds to a specific organ; consequently, any internal disharmony alters the complexion, texture, or moisture of that area. Diagnostic markers include f
Open the Orifices: Point Combinations for Allergy Presentations
Managing seasonal and chronic allergies requires addressing complex underlying patterns like Liver/Spleen disharmony and phlegm rather than just surface wind symptoms. Practitioner Craig Williams utilizes a "skeleton prescription"—GB 14, GB 15, Du 23, Du 24, LI 20, and LI 11—to effectively open the nasal passages and alleviate eye irritation. Each point serves a specific function: LI 20 o
Transformational Work With Anxiety (Pt. 3): Hypervigilance
Hypervigilance is a chronic stress pattern, often rooted in past trauma, where the body remains in a habitual state of anxiety and alertness even when safe. This constant "alarm" drains Kidney qi and disrupts the Heart, Liver, and Lung networks, causing symptoms like insomnia and muscle pain. To address this, practitioners can utilize somatic intelligence—the practice of attending to qi f
The Laser Learning Curve for Light-Based Fertility Treatments
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), or photobiomodulation, is gaining popularity in fertility care for its ability to reduce inflammation and stimulate mitochondrial activity. However, successful outcomes depend on precise technical details that are often overlooked. Not all light is therapeutic; factors such as wavelength, power, and dosage determine if the light can penetrate deep enough to
Why Acupuncture Students Should Be Familiar With Acupuncture Research
Research literacy is becoming a cornerstone of modern acupuncture education, yet students often face a decline in research interest as they progress through their programs. This is frequently due to perceived incompatibilities between biomedical paradigms and traditional East Asian medicine. However, familiarity with research is vital for the profession's growth, as it directly influences
The State of 21st Century Acupuncture in the U.S. (Pt. 6)
The 2020 U.S. Acupuncture Profession Planning Project provides a critical snapshot of the current acupuncture workforce, revealing a mature and stable profession. Data show that 70-71% of practitioners are female, with an average age in the early 50s and significant clinical experience. While private practice remains the dominant setting (82.5%), there is a growing trend toward integratio
Should You Be Changing Your Fees This Year?
The landscape for acupuncture reimbursement is shifting significantly, with 2026 Medicare Relative Value Units (RVUs) seeing notable increases. This article highlights a multi-year trend where initial acupuncture codes have risen approximately 20% in value since 2024, followed by a 5% increase between 2025 and 2026. Because RVUs establish the payment ratios for services, these changes dir
TEAM Dietary and Herbal Therapies for Cancer Patients
Traditional East Asian Medicine (TEAM) provides significant support for cancer patients undergoing aggressive treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. A 2025 retrospective study illustrates how dietary therapy (DT) and herbal therapy (HT) manage side effects and improve quality of life. For instance, an 84-year-old patient recovered from severe immunotherapy side effects, gained weight
The State of 21st Century Acupuncture in the U.S. (Pt. 5)
The future of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (AHM) in America rests upon a foundation of educational excellence and professional legitimacy. As healthcare moves toward team-based, integrative models, the profession is navigating a complex landscape where various providers—including physical therapists and physicians—perform needling techniques. However, there is a significant training ga
Gaze Stabilization: Clinical Relevance
As we age, the intricate reflexes required for gaze stabilization—keeping the eyes focused during head movement—often deteriorate due to a loss of neurons in the cerebellum and brainstem. This decline is strongly correlated with impaired balance and increased fall risk in older adults. Three key mechanisms sustain clear vision: the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR), the cervico-ocular reflex
The Metal Element’s Relationship to Mercury – and Associated Use of Herbs
This article explores the profound functional and symbolic links between the Metal element, the planet Mercury, and the mineral mercury. Both Mercury and Metal govern communication, adaptability, and discernment, identifying value in physical, emotional, and spiritual information. Just as the planet Mercury transits in a "back-and-forth" pattern across the sky, the Metal-related organs—th
Asian Medical Bodywork Opens Another Door to The Profession
The Seattle Institute of East Asian Medicine (SIEAM) is launching a new Certificate in Asian Medical Bodywork (CAMB) program in May 2026, offering a fresh entry point into the profession. This 690-hour program is designed to meet Washington state’s requirements for licensed massage therapy (LMT), allowing graduates to practice legally while potentially continuing toward master’s or doctor
Transformational Work With Anxiety (Pt. 2): Changing the Inner Story
Anxiety often manifests as a persistent "inner story" with predictable somatic repercussions rooted in childhood coping strategies. Because these patterns are repeatable, they can be recognized and transformed through "heartmind" techniques that integrate soma and psyche. This case study follows a patient struggling with defensive reactions in her relationships. Using the Hakomi method, t
Acupuncture and Moxibustion for IBS-D
New research into Diarrhea-predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-D) highlights the critical role of gut microbiota in both the development and recovery of the condition. A study using an IBS-D model compared acupuncture, moxibustion, and pharmacotherapy, specifically focusing on the single acupoint Zusanli (ST 36). The findings revealed that both acupuncture and moxibustion effectivel
Protect the Delicate: Five Patent Medicines for the Lung Organ
In Chinese medicine, the lung is considered the "delicate organ," governed by a wide conceptual field that includes the skin and the body's overall qi. During cold winter months, protecting the lungs from wind-cold and wind-heat is a clinical priority. This article details five essential patent herbal medicines for treating upper respiratory challenges. Gan Mao Ling is the primary defense
Acupuncture Isn't the Whole of TCM: Why Titles and Training Matter
Modernizing the acupuncture profession involves adopting a shared language of titles and training standards to ensure integration with global health systems. While the public often meets various providers using needles, clear titles (like Licensed Acupuncturist or TCM Practitioner) are essential for safety and quality transparency. The article highlights two pivotal developments: ICD-11 d
From Needle to Knife
This narrative explores a unique metamorphosis from a licensed acupuncturist to a colon and rectal surgeon, using the Large Intestine (LI) meridian as a powerful metaphor for professional evolution. Sharing a name with the butterfly genus Vanessa, the author traces her journey across the 20 acupoints of the LI channel. LI 1 (Shangyang) symbolizes the emergence of clinical practice, while
Four Things No One Told Me About Successful Acupuncture
Success in acupuncture practice requires more than just clinical skill; it demands honesty, business savvy, and self-preservation. Author Dr. Ann Kirby reflects on a decade of experience, offering vital lessons for new practitioners. First, she emphasizes the power of saying "I don't know" to patients while still trusting one's foundational TCM knowledge; patients value transparency and d
Integrating Intermittent Fasting Therapy Into Acupuncture Practice: A Clinical Perspective
Acupuncturists often encounter "non-responders" whose progress plateaus due to systemic inflammation and metabolic dysregulation, which can blunt the body's responsiveness to therapeutic stimuli. This article explores how intermittent fasting therapy, or jeol-sik in traditional Korean medicine, can be integrated to enhance treatment outcomes. By reducing oxidative stress and activating au
Psychosomatic Disorders in Relation to the Huang Di Nei Jing
This article explores psychosomatic disorders, where psychological stress leads to physical damage via inappropriate activation of the nervous system, by correlating these conditions with concepts found in the Huang Di Nei Jing. Psychological stresses, like anxiety and mood disorders, are linked to an imbalance in the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), manifesting physically as high blood pr
Beyond Burnout: Transitioning My Clinic Into a Worker-Owned Cooperative
The author recounts her journey to overcome burnout after 15 years of running a successful acupuncture and integrative wellness center by transitioning the business into a worker-owned cooperative. After initial attempts to sell the clinic traditionally failed—including losing time and resources when a potential buyer walked away—she was introduced to the cooperative model through the Bal
TCM as a Countermeasure for Spaceflight-Related Health Challenges
Space exploration presents numerous health challenges for astronauts, including motion sickness, muscle atrophy, immune suppression, and psychological stress. This article proposes that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic framework to complement conventional aerospace medicine protocols. Interpreted through TCM, spaceflight conditions like microgravity and operational str
The Earth Element and the Pelvis
This article explores the connection between the Earth Element in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and pelvic health, positioning Earth as the center pole representing home, harmony, and balance. Associated with the Spleen and Stomach, the Earth Element is responsible for digesting and transporting physical nutrients, thoughts, and emotions. When the Earth Element is out of balance, it
Cultivating the Empowered Patient: Help Them Commit to Their Own Process
This article argues that true healing relies far more on the patient's commitment to their own process than on the practitioner finding the perfect technique. Many patients arrive hoping to be "fixed," carrying a misconception from Western medicine, but this approach treats them as passive recipients rather than active collaborators in their transformation. The author observes that intern
Electroacupuncture for Early Urinary Incontinence After Prostate Surgery
Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common and distressing side effect following radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer, often managed slowly and incompletely through standard pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). This article reviews a prospective, randomized clinical trial that tested electroacupuncture (EA) as a safe and effective adjunct therapy to accelerate recovery. The trial included
Resolving Chronic Migraine With Ocular Complications: Case Study
This article presents a compelling case study demonstrating that seemingly complex, treatment-resistant chronic migraines, particularly those involving ocular symptoms, can often be rooted in a simple musculoskeletal issue. Standard neurological approaches frequently overlook the cervical muscles, but the article focuses on the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle, which has direct neurologic
Transformational Work With Anxiety (Pt. 1)
Acupuncture Injection Therapy (AIT) is a specialized, results-oriented modality that acts as an extension of traditional acupuncture, serving as another sophisticated tool in the classical practitioner's toolbox. AIT is a uniquely Eastern method that uses small amounts of sterile, natural substances—such as vitamin B12, saline, or herbal extracts—as a fluid stimulating agent. These inject
TCM’s Potential in Preventing and Treating Cognitive Decline
With rates of subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and dementia rising, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is presented as a promising, multimodal strategy for supporting brain health due to its holistic, individualized approach. Cognitive decline is a complex condition linked to neurodegenerative diseases, lifestyle, and chronic inflammation. Emerging research indicates that acupuncture su
Acupuncture Injection Therapy
Acupuncture Injection Therapy (AIT) is a specialized, results-oriented modality that acts as an extension of traditional acupuncture, serving as another sophisticated tool in the classical practitioner's toolbox. AIT is a uniquely Eastern method that uses small amounts of sterile, natural substances—such as vitamin B12, saline, or herbal extracts—as a fluid stimulating agent. These inject
Who Owns Your Words?
This article addresses the critical ethical and legal concerns surrounding intellectual property in marketing copy when acupuncturists work as independent contractors in collaborative settings, such as fertility clinics. Marketing materials, which are crucial for patient trust and engagement, often reflect an individual practitioner's specific training, qualifications, and clinical voice.
Pacific College Makes Huge Announcement
Provide a 200 word engaging and interesting summary of the article Pacific College of Health and Science (PCHS) has finalized an agreement for the transfer of its San Diego and Chicago campuses to Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU), effective May 2026, pending regulatory approval. This agreement includes the transfer of students, faculty, staff, and academic programs
Charging the Lower Dan Tian
Drawing heavily from the disciplines of kung fu, qi gong, and nei gong, this article focuses on cultivating the lower dan tian—the "elixir field"—as a vital reservoir of qi that fosters deep immunity and what the author terms "spontaneous flexibility" or psychological resilience. The dan tian is the container of infinite potential that allows patients to feel less helpless and more active
Can Curcumin Aid in Soreness and Recovery After Exercise?
The article explores the potential of curcumin, a natural polyphenolic substance extracted from turmeric, to reduce Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) and support athletic recovery. DOMS is caused by microscopic muscle fiber tears and subsequent inflammation, involving the release of reactive oxygen species and inflammatory markers like COX-1 and COX-2. Curcumin demonstrates promising a
Herbal Management of Lyme Disease: Modern Remedies That Honor Classic Principles (Pt. 2)
This article discusses the management of Lyme disease using modern herbal formulas that effectively target the pathogen (Borrelia burgdorferi) while restoring constitutional balance. Because historical TCM classics lack direct instruction on Lyme, practitioners must utilize "borrowed knowledge" by applying insights from similar spirochete-caused disorders, such as syphilis and leptospiros
Electroacupuncture: A Synergistic Adjunct for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
This article summarizes a study evaluating Electroacupuncture (EA) as a synergistic adjunct therapy for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), particularly addressing complications arising from chemotherapy, such as resistance, bone marrow suppression, and immunosuppression. The research, conducted using an NSCLC mouse model, combined EA applied at Zusanli (ST 36) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) with
Reclaiming Our Expertise: Why Acupuncturists Must Lead in Dry Needling
Dry needling is rapidly becoming a mainstream treatment for musculoskeletal pain, but the acupuncture profession faces a crisis as physical therapists (PTs) increasingly adopt this technique. With PTs significantly outnumbering acupuncturists and only requiring minimal training (as little as 20-80 hours), acupuncturists risk becoming irrelevant in this fastest-growing area of pain relief.
Long Disease and the Seven Affects
This article highlights the critical, often overlooked, role of the Seven Affects (anger, joy, worry, sorrow, thought, fear, and fright) as instigators of chronic disease, or "long disease," a concept typically centered on external factors like the Six Excesses. Emotional states, when sustained at an abnormal intensity and duration, cause internal damage by directly damaging internal orga
Should You Be in-Network or Out-of-Network With Insurance?
The article provides essential guidance for acupuncturists navigating the complex landscape of insurance billing, dispelling the common myth that licensing requires credentialing to bill insurance. Many insurance plans cover acupuncture out-of-network, meaning providers can bill without enrollment, with true HMO-style plans being the primary exception. The fundamental decision is strategi
The Other Side of the Bell: Supporting Oncology Patients Beyond Remission
The article highlights the critical, often overlooked, need for continued care for oncology patients after they achieve "NED" (No Evidence of Disease) and complete their acute treatment. Upon entering remission and ringing the ceremonial bell, many patients feel a pervasive sense of anxiety and depression as the consistent support from their primary oncology team sharply decreases. Cancer
The State of 21st Century Acupuncture in the U.S. (Pt. 4)
Acupuncture is an ancient therapy characterized by a rapidly expanding scientific basis, increasingly integrated into U.S. healthcare systems despite persistent barriers in reimbursement and professional recognition. This segment details the robust research evidence concerning acupuncture’s mechanisms of action, particularly in pain management. At the local level, needle insertion generat
Mosquitoes, Meridians, Mast Cells, and More
This intriguing article proposes that the biting patterns of female mosquitoes may not be random but could, in fact, provide an observable biological demonstration of the subtle energy maps, or meridians, long recorded in East Asian medicine. The author suggests that mosquitoes, driven by evolutionary precision, seek not only blood but also qi—the vital energy of the body. Mosquitoes are
Acupuncture for IVF Embryo Transfer
This article explores the valuable role of acupuncture as a supportive therapy during In vitro fertilization with embryo transfer (IVF-ET), demonstrating its ability to enhance success rates and increase the chances of pregnancy. From a modern biomedical perspective, acupuncture administered before and during the IVF cycle helps regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, promote ho
Will This Study Convince Medicare of Acupuncturists’ Value?
The article focuses on the significance of the BackInAction randomized clinical trial, published in JAMA Network Open, which evaluated the use of acupuncture for Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) in adults aged 65 and older. This trial was a direct response to a call by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to inform coverage decisions regarding acupuncture reimbursement for older a
Acupuncture Home Visits (Pt. 1)
This article serves as an essential guide for acupuncturists venturing into home visits, a crucial service for patients who are homebound due to injury, illness, or incapacitation. Providing safe and effective care outside the clinic demands meticulous preparation. Before the visit, practitioners must handle logistics, asking about crucial in-home factors like parking, pets, firearms, or
Acupuncture’s Role in Resolving GLP-1 Drug-Induced Blindness
This article shines a light on the alarming ocular complication associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists (such as semaglutide and liraglutide): Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). NAION is a serious condition causing sudden vision loss due to reduced blood flow and optic nerve damage. Troubling research indicates that semaglutide may approximately double the risk of N
Expanding Veterans’ Access to Acupuncture
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is making a significant stride toward improving U.S. veterans' access to integrative care, including acupuncture, through the rollout of external provider scheduling (EPS). This new cloud-based tool modernizes VA scheduling and drastically simplifies community care coordination. EPS allows VA schedulers to book approved appointments directly into a
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