The National Osteoporosis Foundation reports about 54 million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass. And this places them at increased risk for osteoporosis. Studies suggest that approximately one in two women and up to one in four men age 50 and older will break a bone due to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic disorder of bone, affecting approximately 100 million people worldwide. The disease affects men by age 75 years, even though osteoporosis is often focused on as a women’s health issue. Read on to learn about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporotic Fractures.

 

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 is type II. 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. Moreover, regional/localized osteoporosis may occur in certain areas of bone as a result of infection, cancer, or an inflammatory arthritis. 

“Female Athlete Triad” Condition: Young female athletes with osteoporosis

Specifically, in young female athletes, osteoporosis may be part of the “female athlete triad” condition.  This is when the athlete has a condition of disordered eating, menstrual irregularity, and osteoporosis/osteopenia. “Disordered eating” is known to occur often in young female athletes. Disordered eating is classified as restricted eating behaviors.  While it is not anorexia nervosa, it is a clinical disorder.  For instance, Menstrual Irregularity in young competitive female runners is linked to disordered eating and low bone mineral density (BMD). Similarly, low BMD shows up with disordered eating in young female athletes even without menstrual irregularity.  

 Compression Fracture and Osteoporosis

The decreased bone mass or increased porosity that occurs with osteoporosis weakens the structural support of the spinal column. In severe cases of osteoporosis, everyday normal activities may cause a spinal compression fracture. This type of vertebral fracture causes loss of height and a “humped” spine even after it is healed, especially in elderly women. This disorder (called kyphosis) is an exaggeration of your spine that causes the shoulders to slump forward and the top of your back to look humped.  Pain may subside as the compression fracture is healing. However, many continue to feel some pain even after the compression fracture has healed. Over time, individuals may begin to show a loss of height, stooped over posture, and back pain.

How Does Acupuncture Help Osteoporosis?

Studies have shown that acupuncture improves bone mineral density, bone strength and raises 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 Osteoporotic Fractures: Research

In one study, acupuncture aided recovery following a percutaneous vertebroplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Percutaneous vertebroplasty surgery involves injecting a medical grade acrylic cement into a fractured vertebra.  The goal is for more stabilization. One group in the study received “percutaneous vertebroplasty monotherapy” and the other received percutaneous vertebroplasty plus acupuncture.  The outcome was the patient who received acupuncture did better in healing overall. However, another outcome was that the acupuncture group also reported much less pain. The study concluded, “benefits of acupuncture include improving local circulation to promote efficient healing, reducing swelling and inflammation, and significantly relieving pain”.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporotic Fractures: More Research

Electroacupuncture (EA) is a form of traditional Chinese acupuncture therapy utilizing electrical stimulation. 

Because of the analgesic effects of acupuncture, EA speeds fracture healing with less pain. In clinical studies, EA showed significantly faster healing time for fractures and reduction in complications occurring. 

In studies, Electroacupuncture was an auxiliary and an adjunctive treatment method for fractures. Researchers found EA positively impacts vascular regeneration and tissue formation throughout the fracture healing course. In contrast, conventional pain-relief drugs, such as opioid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs has side effects, does not aid fracture healing and has the risk of addiction.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporotic Fractures

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: West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Acupuncture Helps Osteoporotic Fractures. 

 

References:

https://www.healthcmi.com/acupuncture-post-op-osteoporosis-fracture-recovery-discovery/

Acupuncture Post-Op Osteoporosis Fracture Recovery Discovery

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11596701/

A review of electroacupuncture in bone repair: Mechanisms and clinical implications

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11596701/

Efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of osteoporosis-related fractures: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis

 

 

 

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 hyperparathyroidism.  So 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.

 

 

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/

 

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.

 

 

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

 

 

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).

 

 

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

 

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)

 

 

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

2. 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/

 

 

This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Low Back Pain from a Femoral Nerve Injury. You may have pain that radiates from the back and hip into the legs.  And walking and moving may be difficult. Also, it may present as buttock pain radiating to the groin and knee. Moreover, do you have a “loss of sensation” over the superior (top) and anterior (front) part of the same knee?

The National Institutes’ of Health (NIH)-funded study supports acupuncture as a safe and effective pain treatment. According to the study, “older Americans with chronic low back pain who received acupuncture had greater improvement in physical function and reduced pain. This was in comparison to those who received usual medical care only, generally prescribed medications or physical therapy. Chronic low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide and affects over one-third of older adults in the United States. Treatment options range from pain-relieving drugs to complementary therapies, including acupuncture. The NIH concluded there is an urgent need for safe, effective, and non-addictive pain management approaches”.

If you have pain due to a femoral nerve injury or dysfunction, acupuncture treatment may be your best choice for relief! 

How is the Femoral Nerve Injured? 

The femoral nerve can be injured by “mechanical stressors”, pathological (abnormal), traumatic and metabolic mechanisms.

Firstly, entrapment between muscles in athletes participating in certain sports (e.g. horse back riding) along with hyperextension (excessive backward motion) of the hip joint are mechanical stressors. So entrapment of the femoral nerve happens during long periods of hyperextension or stretching of the nerve as it exits the lumbar plexus (web of nerves). Additionally, it can happen from sudden flexion and extension of the lumbar spine. 

Secondly, child birth can cause a femoral neuropathy (nerve problem that causes pain, numbness, tingling, swelling).  

Thirdly, traumatic femoral injuries can be from a fall.

Fourthly, post-surgical scar/adhesions or a soft tissue congenital (born with it) anatomical variant may be the issue (e.g. iliopsoas variant).

Lastly, metabolic disorders such as diabetes, shingles (Post-Herpetic Neuralgia) or drug abuse can also, through biochemical interactions, alter nerve function and result in neuropathies.

 

Femoral Nerve Anatomy

The femoral nerve innervates (supplies) the muscles and skin of the hip and thigh. It originates from the lumbar plexus. The lumbar plexus is a complex neural network formed by the lower thoracic (T12) and lumbar (L1-L4) nerve roots. The femoral nerve is formed from the anterior (front) division of spinal nerves L2-L4. In fact, the femoral nerve is the longest branch of the lumbar plexus.

 

Entrapment of the Femoral Nerve

Femoral nerve entrapment may occur due to compression under the inguinal ligament.  The inguinal ligament is the thickened lower border of the aponeurosis (fibrous collagenous connective tissue) of the external oblique muscle of the abdomen.  

As with all peripheral (reside outside your brain and spinal cord) neuropathies, it must be distinguished between a proximal (center of body) or a peripheral nerve problem in order to treat it properly. In other words, distinguishing between the L2-L3 nerve root or a peripheral entrapment of the femoral nerve is important. This diagnosis will be made by your doctor.

Electromyography can usually confirm whether the tissue damage is a lumbar root, plexus, or femoral nerve involvement.  However, electromyographic study is unnecessary to start treatment.  Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) are tests that check how well your muscles and the nerves that control them are working. Both NCS and EMG record electrical activity in the peripheral nerves and muscles.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Low Back Pain from a Femoral Nerve Injury: Research

Firstly, in one case study, A “35-year-old woman visited the university acupuncture clinic because of severe difficulties in hip flexion, extension of knee, and sensory loss on the medial side of leg on the right side. The diagnosis of femoral nerve injury was confirmed by physical examination and nerve conduction study (NCS). Acupuncture treatment was done three times a week for 12 sessions”.  A post-treatment physical examination and NCS showed improvement in the patient’s motor and sensory symptoms. The patient continued to improve at the follow-up physical examination 7 months after treatment.

Secondly, in conclusion, this case report provides clinical and NCS evidence that acupuncture may effectively treat a chronic severe femoral nerve injury.  Indeed Acupuncture, with its unique benefits, including anti-inflammation, analgesia, and speeding up nerve repair, could be a safe, effective, and less painful alternative for repairing peripheral nerve injury”.

 

 

 

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Incredibly, 90 to 95% of diabetics in the United States have type 2 diabetes.   In fact, Type 2 diabetes may affect as many as 20% of the senior U.S. population (ages 65 to 74 years). Approximately 5.4 million adults in the United States have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes.  Appropriate lifestyle changes can reverse or prevent type 2 diabetes.

Chiropractor in West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Diabetic Neuropathy is about how acupuncture can help your pain and dysfunction.

 

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is a disorder that results in chronic hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) due to absence of insulin, decreases in insulin, and/or decreased sensitivity of insulin receptors (areas on the outer part of a cell that allow the cell to join or bind with insulin that is in the blood). Generally, Diabetes mellitus is evident in two forms: (1) type 1, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and (2) type 2, non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Usually, type 1 diabetes becomes apparent in childhood or adolescence.  And type 2 diabetes shows up later in life (over the age of 40).

Microvascular complications of diabetes are those long-term problematic changes to small blood vessels. Unfortunately, it can lead to various health problems such as: retinopathy (disease of retina of eye), nephropathy (kidney disease), and neuropathy (nerve damage disease).

Moreover, it is estimated that 40% of  people in the United States are prediabetic according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Also, it appears long-term damage occurs in the pre-diabetic state (especially to the cardiovascular system) prior to the full development of diabetes. 

PHYSIOLOGY regarding Diabetes Mellitus

Firstly, your Glycemic metabolism is controlled by the interaction of insulin (which has mainly a hypoglycemic/lowers sugar or glucose function) and hormones that are referred to as counterregulatory.

Secondly, these counterregulatory hormones include glucagon (hormone that your pancreas makes to help regulate your blood glucose), epinephrine/norepinephrine (chemical messengers also known as adrenaline, that play an important role in the body’s fight or flight response), cortisol (steroid hormone that is produced by your 2 adrenal glands, helps in immune response and metabolism), and growth hormone (secreted by pituitary and helps metabolism).

Thirdly, in general, these hormones act to stimulate glycogenolysis (happens in the liver and kidney to produce glucose for balancing the blood sugar) and gluconeogenesis (process in the liver when glucose is formed from non-carbohydrate sources).

Fourthly, Catecholamines (e.g. adrenaline) in particular, suppress insulin secretion and stimulate hepatic (liver) glucose production.

Fifthly, the hypoglycemic function of insulin is various.  This includes promoting the uptake of glucose by mainly muscle and adipose tissue (fat), inhibiting the breakdown of glycogen (promotes glycogen/”glucose”stores), and inhibiting the production of other sources of energy such as from free fatty acids.

Symptoms of diabetes may include:

-increased urination and thirst

-loosing weight even if not trying to

-Diabetes can damage nerves and cause problems with the sense of touch

-Diabetes can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, chronic kidney disease, neuropathy and vision loss.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach:  Risk Factors for Diabetes Mellitus

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune reaction (the body attacks itself by mistake). Risk factors include:

• Family history: a parent, brother, or sister with type 1 diabetes.
• Age: While you can get type 1 diabetes at any age, it typically develops in children, teens, or young adults.

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes

So Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes have similar risk factors. To start with, if you already have prediabetes, this is an added risk factor to develop type 2 diabetes. Additional risk factors are:

-Are overweight or obesity.

-Are age 45 or older.

-Your parent or sibling has type 2 diabetes.

-Are physically active less than 3 times a week.

-Have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

-You had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or given birth to a baby who weighed over 9 pounds.

-Are an African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian, or Alaska Native person. Some Pacific Islander people and Asian American people also have a higher risk.

 

How Does Acupuncture Help Diabetes Mellitus?

Acupuncture’s anti-inflammatory effect has been observed in several studies. This includes those on asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, epicondylitis, complex regional pain syndrome type 1, and vasculitis. Furthermore, acupuncture treats diseases of the nervous system.  For instance, it helps reduce the doses of dopaminergic medications in patients with Parkinson’s disease.  Moreover, Acupuncture may relieve nerve dysfunction in the motor, non-motor, pre-motor, and autonomic nerves.

Indeed, acupuncture has been proven to be beneficial and effective for pain relief.  For example, such as for lower back pain, chronic tension-type headaches, and migraine prophylaxis. Furthermore, various studies have reported that acupuncture can effectively modulate hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus. Taken together, these results suggest that acupuncture could be considered as a viable natural treatment for diabetic neuropathy.

Research on Diabetic Neuropathy and Acupuncture?

With Diabetic Neuropathy, you will typically have low back pain along with burning pains in the lower extremities (limbs) and poor balance. Also, it can affect your arms and hands with numbness and pain. Indeed, neuropathy is a diabetes complication that causes nerve damage throughout your body.  Hence, about half of all people with diabetes have some form of neuropathy. Furthermore, it is more common in those who have had diabetes for many years. 

Manual Acupuncture versus Routine Care for Diabetic Neuropathy

Firstly, One study indicates that manual acupuncture is possibly more effective than routine care (stabilizing blood sugar, managing daily pain, and protecting vulnerable areas from injury) in relieving pain. And acupuncture may significantly improve nerve conduction velocity when compared to routine care. A nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test measures how quickly electrical impulses move through a nerve. 

Secondly, A study looked at the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture as a treatment for diabetic polyneuropathic-related complaints. Patients with type II diabetes and symptoms of neuropathy in the lower limbs were included. A total of 12 acupuncture treatments were administered over 8 weeks. The study found Acupuncture leads to a significant and lasting reduction in diabetes related complaints.  This is in comparison to routine care. 

Thirdly, another study found acupuncture improves the motor and sensory nerves function in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy. In conclusion, acupuncture can be considered an appropriate safe and nonpharmacological complementary option for type 2 diabetic polyneuropathy. 

Lastly, scientists discovered improvements in diabetic polyneuropathy pain symptoms improved sleep, fatigue, mood, function, and  the ability to work.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Diabetic Neuropathy

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 for Diabetic Neuropathy.

 

References:

1)  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm. Effect of Acupuncture on Diabetic Neuropathy: A Narrative Review

Eunwoo Cho ¹, Woojin Kim ^1,* Editor: Kazunori Sango¹ PMCID: PMC8395323  PMID: 3444528  nih.gov/articles/PMC8395323/

2) Acupuncture for the treatment of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Chunliang Wang ^a, Yuzhu Fan ^b, Guiting Liang ^b, Qiang Wang ^a, Hui Gao ^a, Junhong Duan ^b 10.1016/j.ctcp.2024.101889