West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporosis

 

Did you know the signs of osteoporosis often appear suddenly with the development of a painful kyphosis (hunchback) or hip fracture? Astoundingly, over half of women over age 50 years will have a fracture due to osteoporosis. And it is estimated over 1.3 million number of fractures will be due to osteoporosis with an enormous cost. However, 50% of osteoporotic hip fractures and 90% of vertebral spinal compression fractures are preventable. Your Bone Mass should not be thought of only in an emergency, but should be a lifelong striving for preservation and development. This post is about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporosis.

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: What is Osteoporosis?

Firstly, Osteoporosis is a loss of bone mass associated with deterioration of the microarchitecture (structure and connectivity of bone elements and the thickness of the cortical shell) of bone tissue. 

Secondly, Osteoporosis is typically divided into bone loss associated with age, called senile osteoporosis (type II) and postmenopausal osteoporosis (type I). Of course, Women can get both types. 

Thirdly, generalized (whole body) osteoporosis is the most common form found with both senile and postmenopausal causes. A regional osteoporosis may occur that is restricted to a bone or part of a limb. This can be found with immobilization and Sudeck’s atrophy (associated bone changes found with reflex sympathetic dystrophy). Moreover, regional/localized osteoporosis may occur in certain areas of bone as a result of infection, cancer, or an inflammatory arthritis. 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Osteoporosis classification/diagnosis 

Radiographically (x-ray), osteoporosis is classified based on the area or region found. The classification of Osteoporosis is often primary or secondary. Primary causes include senile and postmenopausal types. And secondary causes include hormonal dysfunction such as hyperthyroidism and hyperparathyroidismSo the thyroid gland uses iodine from food to make two thyroid hormones that regulate the way the body uses energy. While the parathyroid glands are four tiny glands located behind the thyroid gland. The parathyroid glands produce a substance (parathyroid hormone) that helps control the amount of calcium in the blood. 

The World Health Organization distinguishes the degree of loss of bone mass by two terms:

  • osteopenia-bone density greater than 1 standard deviation (SD) below the normal mean but less than or equal to 2.5 SD below the normal mean
  • osteoporosis-bone density greater than 2.5 SD below the normal mean

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Anatomy and Physiology of Osteoporosis 

First, Osteoporosis occurs due to loss of bone quantity without an associated decrease of bone quality (mineralization is normal). It appears there is increased resorption in the process of bone formation. Indeed, the process of bone formation and resorption is a delicate balance. And environmental, nutritional, and hormonal factors are all involved in this. While genetics play a huge part in bone mass variation, lifestyle is still essential.

Second, Production of bone exceeds resorption (bone breakdown) in early life.  Next, the production of bone peaks during and after puberty. Gradually, the production does decline during the mid-20s to early 30s. After this, a small period of balance occurs when production equals resorption. Especially in women, an imbalance in favor of resorption begins in the late 30s and early 40s. The fact is, the rate of bone loss is greater in women than in men in a lifetime.  Men only lose 25% of bone mass while women lose 50%.  Decreases in estrogen at menopause causes cortical bone loss and therefore increases the risk of fracture.

Third, Bone is composed of two thirds mineral (mainly hydroxyapatite, a mineral composed of phosphorus and calcium). The remaining one third is collagen, water, proteoglycans (type of protein), and other noncollagenous proteins. Type I collagen acts as a framework for deposition of minerals. The process of bone formation and repair is determined by an interaction of three cell types: osteoblasts  (form collagen), osteocytes (coordinate bone formation function), and osteoclasts (break down bone). 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Risk Factors and Osteoporosis

Risk factors for osteoporosis include:

  • female gender
  • white or Asian background
  • early menopause
  • family history
  • lean body form
  • lack of exercise in all age groups or excessive exercise in young people
  • use of glucocorticoids, phenytoin, aluminum antacids, lithium, loop diuretics, tetracycline, warfarin, thyroid medication, corticosteroids
  • heavy alcohol use, smoking, low calcium intake or vitamin D deficiency, high phosphate, fiber, or sodium intake, more than four cups of coffee per day, excessive carbonated drinks (several a day), and possibly a high animal-protein diet 

How Does Acupuncture Help Osteoporosis?

Studies have shown that acupuncture improves bone mineral density, bone strength as well as hormone levels.  However, the exact mechanism of how is unknown.

Acupuncture is a treatment that has been used for over 4000 years for health problems. Moreover, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) explains acupuncture as a balancing of energy (qi) in each human being to achieve overall wellness. Similarly, TCM says the loss of kidney qi and blood stagnation are mainly responsible for osteoporosis. Acupuncture is a painless technique used to affect what the ancient chinese practitioners called Meridians (energy channels) in your body under the skin. In summary, acupuncture can regulate the balance of qi and blood by stimulating acupoints. And the aim is at improving physiological function.

Today, Researchers believe when an acupuncture needle is inserted, the sensory and proprioceptive nerves are stimulated. This sends a message to your brain and nervous system. Ultimately, Acupuncture improves blood flow and calms the nervous system.  This triggers nerve signaling that affects the function of other parts of the body, including organs. In summary, Researchers believe acupuncture may help initiate and regulate certain signaling pathways in the body, allowing cells to communicate with each other.

 

 West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporosis: Research

Animal studies have found that acupuncture could increase estrogen and testosterone levels.  Estrogen acts as a protector of bones in both men and women by slowing bone resorption.  Next, Testosterone plays a double role by stimulating bone formation and may naturally convert estrogen within bone tissue. This may improve bone density.

Additionally, research has been done to prove the benefits off acupuncture towards increasing bone metabolism.  Specifically, when acupuncture points are stimulated it works towards building calcitonin. This hormone is responsible for recalcification of bone and reducing bone pain.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporosis: More Research

In another study, a clinical trial was conducted in 226 patients with osteoporosis for 6 months. Participants were randomized to the control group and the acupuncture group.  All participants received basic treatment with daily calcium carbonate and vitamin D3 tablet (containing calcium 600 mg/tablet) supplementation. And the acupuncture group received additional acupuncture treatment. After 6 months of treatment, effectiveness in the acupuncture group was significantly higher than those without treatment. The results showed, Acupuncture can increase hip bone density, reduce bone turnover rate and improve bone metabolism. Also, acupuncture can improve body balance and lower limb muscle strength in patients with osteoporosis.

 

 

Dr. Natalie Meiri
Dr. Natalie Meiri

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporosis

Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call 561-253-8984 today!  Ask to make an appointment or find out more about: Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporosis.

 

References: 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7478384/

Acupuncture and moxibustion for primary osteoporosis

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6594290/

Acupuncture for Primary Osteoporosis: Evidence, Potential Treatment Prescriptions, and Mechanisms

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39326394/

Acupuncture in Treating Osteopenia: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7478384/

Acupuncture and moxibustion for primary osteoporosis

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Treats Bedwetting (Enuresis)

 

According to a 2021 World Health Organization report, acupuncture is the most widely used traditional medicine practice globally.  Therefore, it is gaining popularity in the USA as well. Ultimately, this is true for pediatric patients as well. While children with musculoskeletal issues often seek acupuncture treatment, they also need help with enuresis. Also, parents seeking a non-drug, “non parent-intensive” approach to bed-wetting seek out acupuncture clinics. Read on to find out more on this in the post West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Treats Bedwetting (Enuresis).

 

What is Nocturnal Enuresis in Children and Teens?

Firstly, nocturnal enuresis is involuntary voiding of urine during sleep in the absence of disease/physical disorders. Associated diseases/physical disorders causing night time bed wetting could be urinary tract infections (UTI), diabetes, or seizures. The frequency is two or more incontinent (involuntary voiding) occurrences in a month between the ages of 5 and 6. And one or more occurrences after age 6.

Secondly, nocturnal (occurring at night) enuresis is a distressing disorder for parents and children. It is hard on families due to increased bedding changes and the expense of replacements for mattress and covers. Certainly, the child involved may have greater issues with self-esteem. Children may have a more difficult time establishing relationships with peers and at school activities.

Thirdly, nocturnal enuresis is often categorized into primary and secondary causes. Primary nocturnal enuresis is the involuntary discharge of urine at night by children old enough to be expected to have bladder control. Secondary enuresis is defined as the presence of a prior history of continence (voluntary control of voiding) for more than a 6-month period. Many times, the regression in secondary enuresis is due to a stressful emotional event in the early years of life. Approximately 80% to 90% of childhood enuresis is the primary type.

Fourthly, primary nocturnal enuresis occurs in the developmental ages of 5 years or older. 5-7 million children in the United States are affected.  It is more common in boys than in girls. And an estimated prevalence of around 15% to 20% of 5-year-olds, 5% of 10-year-olds, and 1% of those 15 years and older have nocturnal enuresis.

 

What Causes Nocturnal Enuresis?

Nocturnal enuresis is a complex problem which involves several mechanisms.  Certain physical, mechanical, nutritional, as well as psychosocial (e.g. stress) problems can all cause forms of nocturnal enuresis.  Furthermore, nocturnal enuresis can be inherited.

Food allergies may play a role in detrusor muscle instability (functioning problems) leading to nocturnal enuresis. The walls of the bladder are mainly formed by the detrusor muscle.  This muscle allows the bladder to contract to excrete urine or relax to hold urine. Dairy products, carbonated drinks (e.g. cola), chocolate, and citrus may be the culprit.

Normal micturition (action of urinating) maturation occurs paralleling changes in bladder capacity and neural development (nervous system development). In the first 2 years, a child has little control over urination, yet senses when the bladder is full. By age 3, a child should have some development of daytime control. Next, by ages 4 and 5, the child should be able to control urination in mid-stream with starting and stopping at will. A delay in this normal maturation and a small bladder capacity (less than 50% of normal in 85% of enuretic children) seem to be a major factor.  

Abnormal diurnal rhythm (varying with time of day) of antidiuretic hormone (ADI-I) secretion.  Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) helps regulate the amount of water in your body. And if there is a decrease or absence during sleep, excessive amounts of unconcentrated urine accumulate. Interestingly, this maybe the cause for enuresis in older children, since one study found the bladder capacity of these children to be normal.

Acupuncture for Bedwetting (Nocturnal Enuresis) in Children and Teens at Meiri Chiropractic

Tuina (accupressure) vs. non-Tuina traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatments for young children, acupuncture can help establish healthy patterns and alleviate various health issues. For example, for very young children who cannot tolerate needles, non-invasive techniques are available.  For instance, acupressure and shonishin (a specialized pediatric massage) are effective choices. So for children, we can utilize non-needle treatment strategies. Some of the methods used are gentle stroking of the acupuncture channels with the hands and with “teishein” tools/balls.  Children generally respond very quickly and very well to treatment.  Also, they tend to need less overall visits.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Treats Bedwetting (Enuresis): Research

In research studies, acupuncture was utilized to treat the spinal micturition centers and the parasympathetic innervation to the urinary tract.  Furthermore, acupuncture treatment released enkephalins and endogenous (body’s natural) opioids. And this increased in both body plasma (fluids) and the central nervous system.  This was able to depress bladder contractions. In summary, the results suggested that acupuncture therapy was a viable natural solution in treating nocturnal enuresis without the adverse side effects of pharmacological therapy.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Treats Bedwetting (Enuresis): More Research

In research studies, it was found the therapeutic effects of acupuncture can be achieved through the suppression of spinal and supraspinal reflexes that may not be functioning appropriately.  A spinal reflex is an automatic response to a sensory stimulus that is coordinated mainly by circuits within the spinal cord, without requiring conscious input from the brain. In contrast, a supraspinal reflex is a reflex response where the neural pathway travels from the sensory receptor up into the brain or brainstem (supraspinal level) before a motor signal is sent back to the muscles. This differs from a standard spinal reflex. A standard spinal reflex processes entirely within the local segments of the spinal cord. This spinal reflex mechanism allows protective actions, such as withdrawing from a sharp object, to happen quickly.  In contrast,  a Pupillary response is a supraspinal reflex where the brainstem takes part and takes longer to process.

So Voluntary control of micturition (urination) requires the following and is a supraspinal reflex:

1) Conscious awareness of bladder sensation

2) Assessment of environment to decide (e.g. is it safe and appropriate to urinate?)

3) Release of the bulbospinal reflex micturition reflex. Bulbospinal tracts are descending pathways originating in the brainstem that influence spinal networks.

4) Adequate sensorimotor function to relax the (EUS) External Urethral Sphincter and pelvic floor muscles.

And acupuncture increased maximum bladder capacity and normalized detrusor muscle activity in the studies. These functional changes might contribute to the improvement of nocturnal enuresis.

 

 

Dr. Natalie Meiri
Dr. Natalie Meiri
West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Treats Bedwetting (Enuresis)

Acupuncture has been used for over 4000 years to treat pain and other health problems. Acupuncture effects what the ancient chinese practitioners called Meridians (energy channels) in your body under the skin. Traditional acupuncture is based on the belief that an energy, or “life force”, flows through the body in these channels called meridians.

Today, Researchers believe when an acupuncture needle is inserted, nerves are stimulated. This sends a message to your brain and nervous system. Ultimately, Acupuncture improves blood flow and calms the nervous system.  This triggers nerve signaling that affects the function of other parts of the body, including organs.

Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call 561-253-8984 today!  Ask to make an appointment or find out more about: Chiropractor West Palm Beach:  Acupuncture Treats Bedwetting (Enuresis).

 

References: 

https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/978-92-4-001688-0

Efficacy of Acupuncture in Children with Nocturnal Enuresis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4488007/

Acupuncture as a treatment for nocturnal enuresis

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1566070210001347

Tuina for Enuresis in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2022.821781/full

 

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Treats Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

 

This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Treats Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.  You may have pain in the neck and shoulder with numbness in the fingers. You may have diffuse (spread out) arm symptoms, including numbness and tingling. Often, you may describe the pain taking a path down the inside of your arm to the little and ring fingers. Also, when you do any overhead activity, it is often made worse. For example, overhead throwing, serving a tennis ball, and painting a ceiling may exacerbate symptoms. Frequently, you may have weakness radiating from the neck and shoulder and extending into the arm and hand.  Even driving and typing may sometimes be difficult.

If you have Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, acupuncture can provide relief! We’ve got some great information to share below.

 

What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

The term “thoracic outlet” is the area between the neck and shoulder, over the top of the thorax (chest), and under the clavicle (collar bone). It is a space in the lower neck between the thorax and axilla (armpit) through which the subclavian vein, subclavian artery, and brachial plexus (network of nerves that provides movement and feeling to the shoulder, arm and hand) travel.

Moreover, compression at the thoracic outlet can involve the brachial plexus, subclavian artery, or subclavian vein at various sites as they travel downward into the arm. Indeed, several common sites are possible for compression.  And there are many causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.

Firstly, compression may be due to physical trauma such as from a car accident or a sports injury. Secondly, anatomical defects from birth may show symptoms later in life. Thirdly, tumors that press on nerves, though rare, are possible. Fourthly, the changes of pregnancy (e.g. postural, hormonal, swelling) may lead to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.  Lastly, poor posture such as a forward head carriage and rounded shoulders can lead to compression. And repetitive arm and shoulder movements and activity, such as from playing certain sports also are a potential culprit. These overuse injuries can lead to swelling and fibrosis causing compression of the nerves and vessels.  

Diagnosis is through history, examination and testing. Additionally, Nerve conduction studies or imaging (x-ray) studies may be ordered. Ultimately, this is to confirm or rule out a diagnosis of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. 

Compression at the Thoracic Outlet 

 

Cervical Rib

Compression may occur at an elongated C7 transverse process. It is a small bony projection off the right and left side of each vertebrae of the spinal column also called a “cervical (neck) rib”.  This is an abnormality only found in 1% of the population from birth. 

Scalene Triangle

Muscular compression can occur at the scalene (three paired muscles located in the lateral (side) aspect of the neck) muscles. This narrow vertical space formed between the two scalene muscles, with the first rib at the base, is called the scalene triangle. The major nerves and blood vessels supplying the upper extremity (limbs) lie within or next to the scalene triangle. Moreover, as they pass through the upper part of the thoracic outlet over the first rib, compression can happen. 

Subcoracoid Space</span>

The pectoralis minor is a small muscle that lies deep to the much larger pectoralis major muscle in the front of the upper chest. It arises from the upper ribs and runs upward to attach to a bony protrusion underneath the clavicle known as the coracoid process. Subsequently, the nerves and blood vessels pass underneath the pectoralis minor tendon through the subcoracoid space where compression may occur.

Costoclavicular Space

Compression can occur at the costoclavicular area. After passing over the first rib, the brachial plexus nerves, subclavian artery, and subclavian vein all pass together underneath the clavicle. Next, they cross underneath a small muscle that runs along the back of the clavicle, called the subclavius muscle. Additionally, this muscle attaches to the front part of the first rib, where it forms a band of dense connective tissue called the costoclavicular ligament. 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Treats Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Research

Firstly, in one study a patient with left shoulder pain and left arm numbness was treated with acupuncture. Acupuncture along with natural therapies (e.g. herbal medicine and physical therapy) was provided.  After 3 weeks of treatment, they were much improved. The case study concluded that an integrated approach along with acupuncture relieved the TOS.(1)

Secondly, in another case study, the long-time improper posture of holding a baby was the culprit of TOS in a new mother.  The mother’s muscle imbalance in the cervical vertebra and shoulder girdle caused muscular thickening and hyperplasia (increase in the number of cells causing tissue enlargement). For example, her scalene muscle and pectoralis minor muscle.  This caused thoracic outlet stenosis (blood vessel narrowing).  And acupuncture treatment was effective. (2)

Thirdly, numerous studies have shown that acupuncture can adjust the production of neurotransmitter, mainly 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin).  This reduces nerve sensitivity.  Serotonin, or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is a neurotransmitter with an important physiological role in the human body. It regulates activities including behavior, mood, memory, and gastrointestinal homeostasis. Therefore, as an analgesic form of therapy, the effect of acupuncture has been considered as a safe therapy. (3).

 

Dr. Natalie Meiri
Dr. Natalie Meiri

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Treats Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Acupuncture is a treatment that has been used for over 4000 years for health problems. Traditionally, Acupuncture has been reported to alleviate pain and discomfort by rebalancing the energy (Qi). It is based on the belief that an energy, or “life force”, flows through the body in these channels called meridians. It is a painless technique used to affect what the ancient chinese practitioners called Meridians (energy channels) in your body under the skin. In summary, acupuncture can regulate the balance of qi and blood by stimulating acupuncture points. And the aim is at improving physiological function.

Today, Researchers believe when an acupuncture needle is inserted, the sensory and proprioceptive nerves are stimulated. This sends a message to your brain and nervous system. Ultimately, Acupuncture improves blood flow and calms the nervous system.  This triggers nerve signaling that affects the function of other parts of the body, including organs.

 

Acupuncture Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call 561-253-8984 today!  Ask to make an appointment or find out more about: Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Treats Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.

 

 

References:

(1) A Case Report of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Improved by Integrated Korean Medical Treatment

 

https://www.e-jar.org/journal/view.html?uid=2144&vmd=Full

(2) Acupuncture Analgesia Thoracic outlet syndrome with drop shoulder

 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1003525719300170

(3) Acupuncture for treating chronic spinal pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC972641

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief From Low Back Pain from Disc Disease With Acupuncture

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s clinical pearl stories: West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Relief From Low Back Pain from Disc Disease With Acupuncture

This is my clinical pearl story about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Relief From Low Back Pain from Disc Disease With Acupuncture.  She was a 62 year old female patient.  Her chief complaints were buttock and posterior (back) leg pain.  And it came on insidiously (gradual, subtle but with harmful effects) without any trauma.  To be HIPAA compliant, I will call her Julie instead of her real name.

Julie worked as an office worker her whole life. Consequently, she spent most of her days sitting at a desk.  She ate a healthy diet and exercised regularly.  One day she presented to my office reporting pain in the gluteal (buttock) region and wearing a back brace.  It was characterized as shooting, burning, or aching down the back of both legs. In addition, she reported numbness in the buttocks and tingling sensations. And it was along the distribution of the sciatic nerve.

Julie had seen previous chiropractors for many years due to chronic back pain.  She had all her current x-rays and MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging).  Furthermore, she was also seeing a physical therapist, but still wasn’t getting completely better. Julie didn’t want surgery and didn’t want to take conventional drugs for the pain. So that’s when she decided to come see me.  Julie thought the combination of chiropractic and acupuncture might help her. 

Julie’s Examination at Meiri Chiropractic

Upon examination, Julie tested positive for sciatica from Lumbosacral Disc Disease. .  Her x-rays and MRIs confirmed the degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) and disc disease. Julie’s diagnosis was Lumbosacral Disc Disease. Julie had all the typical symptoms of sciatica with back and leg pain  caused by the degeneration of the spinal discs in the lower back. Symptoms typically include lower back pain that radiates to the buttocks or legs (sciatica), numbness, and muscle weakness.

What is Sciatica?

Firstly, the sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the human body. Sciatic nerves originate from several nerves in your lower back. These nerves branch outward from the spine. And then it comes together at each buttock to form the sciatic nerve, which then radiates down each leg.

Secondly, the word “sciatic” is defined as relating to the hip or ischium or to any structure in its vicinity, as the sciatic nerve. The ischium is a paired bone (one on each side) of the pelvis that forms the lower and back part of the hip bone(s). 

Thirdly, sciatica is defined as irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve that causes pain in the buttock area with radiation to the lower leg. It is a condition characterized by pain along the course of the sciatic nerve.  This is usually a neuritis (inflammation of a nerve).  It is generally caused by mechanical compression or irritation of the lumbar and sacral spinal nerve roots.

Fourthly, many cases have a spinal cause, such as disc herniation/bulge causing impingement of L5 or S1 nerve roots. Other common causes include spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease (wear and tear arthritis/osteoarthritis), and spondylolisthesis. There are also other causes of sciatica, which are less common. These include piriformis, trauma, post-operative complications, gynecologic conditions, and herpes zoster (shingles).

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Efficacy of Acupuncture Research on Low Back Disc Disease in One Study

Firstly, one study sought to show the improvement with acupuncture in some low back muscle pain in patient’s with disc disease. These muscles included: multifidus, erector spinae, and psoas major muscles, along with their “fatty infiltration”.  And these were patients diagnosed with lumbar disc herniation treated through acupuncture.

Secondly, muscle fat infiltration is the replacement of healthy back muscle fibers with fatty deposits. In low back disc disease, spinal instability and nerve compression cause deep stabilizing muscles to “stop working”. This chronic disuse leads to muscle atrophy and “fatty replacement”.  Ultimately, this leads to continued lower back pain and stiffness.

Thirdly, in the same study, participants were divided into acupuncture and rehabilitation therapy groups. The acupuncture patients received treatments at specific acupuncture points, while the rehabilitation group received “traditional rehabilitative therapy”. In conclusion, “this study demonstrates that acupuncture treatment is significantly more effective than traditional rehabilitation therapy in improving paraspinal muscle function, reducing muscle fat infiltration, and alleviating lumbar and leg pain in patients with lumbar disc herniation”. (2)

 

Dr. Natalie Meiri
Dr. Natalie Meiri

 

Julie’s Chiropractic and Acupuncture Treatments at Meiri Chiropractic

Julie started her care at my office with chiropractic care 2-3 times a week. She showed improvement after 2 weeks and then I incorporated acupuncture 1-2 times week.

Julie reported that she was starting to feel better after the initial visit.  And after the acupuncture treatments, she was no longer wearing a back brace and moving much better. After 3 months of continued weekly care, Julie was mostly pain-free.  Also, she was able to do many more activities now that her low back was better.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Relief From Low Back Pain from  Disc Disease With Acupuncture

Firstly, Acupuncture is a treatment that has been used for over 4000 years to treat pain and other health problems. It is a painless technique in our office and we use very thin needles. The needles affect what the ancient chinese practitioners called Meridians.  These are energy channels in your body under the skin.

Secondly, Acupuncture’s effectiveness has been well documented in musculoskeletal pain disorders and other ailments.  

Ultimately, Acupuncture treatments stimulate the meridians.   The goal is to activate the body’s natural healing abilities.  

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief From Low Back Pain and  Disc Disease With Acupuncture

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for low back disc disease and many other ailments. Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call today for your acupuncture treatment at 561-253-8984! 

 

References:

  1. Thomas Souza, (2018) Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor
  1. 2024 Nov 6:15:1467769. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1467769. eCollection 2024.

Efficacy of acupuncture for lumbar disc herniation: changes in paravertebral muscle and fat infiltration – a multicenter retrospective cohort study

Liang Yan #  1 Jiliang Zhang #  2 Xianliang Wang #  3 Qinming Zhou  4 Jingdong Wen  5 Haihong Zhao  6 Kai Guo  6 Jianhua Zeng  6   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39568818/