<![CDATA[BRIBIE ACUPUNCTURE - BLOG]]>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:09:40 +1000Weebly<![CDATA[ACUPUNCTURE FOR GOUT PAIN]]>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 03:45:12 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/acupuncture-for-gout-painPicture

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally excreted from the body through urine. However, if the body produces too much uric acid or if the kidneys cannot remove enough of it, uric acid levels in the blood can become elevated, leading to a condition known as hyperuricemia.

When uric acid levels are high, uric acid crystals can form and accumulate in the joints, tendons, and surrounding tissues, causing inflammation, swelling, and severe pain. Gout attacks, also known as flare-ups, can occur suddenly and often affect a single joint, most commonly the joint at the base of the big toe. However, gout can also affect other joints in the body, such as the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers.

Gout attacks typically present with symptoms such as:
  • Sudden and severe pain in the affected joint, often described as throbbing or excruciating.
  • Swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint.
  • Limited range of motion and difficulty moving the joint.
  • Tenderness to touch around the affected joint.

Gout attacks can be triggered by various factors, including:
  • Diet: Consuming foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, shellfish, and certain types of fish, can increase uric acid levels and trigger gout attacks.
  • Alcohol: Drinking alcohol, particularly beer and spirits, can raise uric acid levels and increase the risk of gout.
  • Dehydration: Inadequate hydration can lead to higher concentrations of uric acid in the blood, increasing the risk of gout attacks.
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics (water pills), can elevate uric acid levels and predispose individuals to gout attacks.

Chronic gout, if left untreated, can lead to complications such as the formation of uric acid crystals in soft tissues, joint damage, and the development of kidney stones due to high levels of uric acid in the blood. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for effectively treating gout and preventing complications.


ACUPUNCTURE FOR GOUT PAIN
Some people are able to manage symptoms of gout with diet and lifestyle changes, however in more severe cases anti-inflammatory and urate-lowering drugs are often used treatments for gouty arthritis. Many people with gouty arthritis however, desire non-pharmacological interventions for pain relief without inducing adverse effects. Acupuncture can often help manage gout flare-ups by providing pain relief, improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and improving joint function:

  1. Pain Relief: Acupuncture is beneficial in alleviating the pain associated with gout flare-ups by stimulating the release of endorphins, the natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body.
  2. Improved Blood Circulation: Acupuncture promotes better blood circulation to the affected area, delivering oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues and removing metabolic waste products. Improved blood flow can help reduce pain and promote healing.
  3. Reduction of Inflammation: Gout causes inflammation in the affected joints due to the buildup of uric acid crystals. Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation by modulating the body's immune response and promoting better circulation to the affected areas.
  4. Improved Joint Function: By targeting specific acupuncture points associated with the affected joints, acupuncture may help improve joint mobility and function, allowing individuals with gout to move more comfortably and perform daily activities with less difficulty.

Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to health and wellness, and aims to address not only physical symptoms but also the underlying imbalances contributing to health issues. By promoting balance and harmony within the body, acupuncture may support overall well-being and improve quality of life for individuals with gout.
]]><![CDATA[Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis]]>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:55:16 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/acupuncture-for-plantar-fasciitis6880610Picture
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects the heel and bottom of the foot, causing significant pain and discomfort. It often develops from overuse, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues such as flat feet or high arches. The primary symptom is heel pain, particularly after long periods of rest or during the first steps in the morning. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, sharp pain that makes walking difficult.
In addition to conventional treatment options such as physical therapy, orthotic supports, and in some cases, surgery, acupuncture can significantly reduce pain, improve function, and speed healing for those suffering with plantar fasciitis.

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How Acupuncture Can Help Plantar Fasciitis
  1. Pain Relief: One of the most immediate benefits of acupuncture is pain relief. The insertion of needles stimulates the nervous system to release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. This can reduce the intensity of heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
  2. Reducing Inflammation: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce inflammation by promoting blood circulation and stimulating the release of anti-inflammatory substances. This is particularly beneficial for plantar fasciitis, where inflammation of the plantar fascia is a primary concern.
  3. Improving Flexibility and Mobility: Regular acupuncture sessions can help improve the flexibility of the plantar fascia and surrounding muscles (including the calf muscle), reducing stiffness and improving overall foot mobility. This increased flexibility can prevent further injury and aid in quicker recovery. Patients often report improved ease of movement and a reduction in morning stiffness after consistent acupuncture treatment.
  4. Addressing Underlying Causes: Acupuncture doesn’t just treat symptoms; it also addresses underlying imbalances in the body that may contribute to plantar fasciitis. For instance, acupuncture can help correct biomechanical issues or improve posture, thereby reducing the strain on the plantar fascia. By targeting these root causes, acupuncture provides a holistic approach to managing and preventing recurrence of plantar fasciitis.
Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of acupuncture in treating plantar fasciitis. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Pain Research found that patients who received acupuncture experienced significant pain relief compared to those who received standard care. In addition to these findings, research suggests that acupuncture may also improve patient outcomes when used in conjunction with other therapies. For example, combining acupuncture with physical therapy has been shown to enhance overall effectiveness, reducing recovery time and improving long-term results.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Acupuncture for plantar fasciitis begins with a consultation, during which we will assess your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. Based on this information, we will create a customised treatment plan. We will then insert thin, single-use, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points. These points may be located around the foot, leg, or even distal points on the body (such as the hand or wrist - which surprises many people!) that influences the foot. Once the needles are inserted, you will rest for about 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, you may experience a tingling sensation, warmth, or relaxation - many people fall asleep. Most people notice an immediate reduction in pain, however a series of treatments is typically recommended for plantar fasciitis.
]]><![CDATA[NECK PAIN]]>Tue, 30 Jun 2026 02:45:46 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/neck-painPicture
Neck pain and tight neck muscles are common and can significantly impact daily life. The discomfort may be localised to the neck or radiate to other areas such as the shoulders, upper back, head, or even the arms. The most common causes of neck pain and tightness include poor posture, emotional stress, overuse, and injuries, such as whiplash. Structural issues such as cervical spondylosis, herniated discs, and degeneration can also contribute to chronically tight muscles, as muscles often contract to guard and stablise the affected area. Muscles that are contracted for a prolonged period of time contribute to chronic pain.

The impact of tight neck muscles often goes beyond physical discomfort, affecting overall well-being. Persistent pain can contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression, and can interfere with daily activities, driving, and hobbies - leading to a decreased quality of life. Neck pain can also disrupt sleep, either by causing discomfort while lying down or leading to headaches that prevent restful sleep. Poor sleep, in turn, can exacerbate muscle tension, creating a vicious cycle.
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THE NECK & HEADACHES 
Though headaches can stem from various causes, an often overlooked factor is tight neck muscles. The muscles in the neck play a crucial role in supporting the head and facilitating movement; when these muscles become tense or strained however, they can provoke or worsen headaches.

  • Muscle tension and referred pain: when muscles become tight, they can develop “trigger points”, which are small knots in the muscle tissue. These trigger points can refer pain to other areas, for example the temples, forehead, or around the eyes, leading to tension-type headaches or even mimicking migraine symptoms.
  • Nerve irritation: the neck houses several nerves, including a nerve which runs from the upper cervical spine to the scalp. Tight muscles in the neck can irritate or compress these nerves, leading to headaches that originate at the base of the skull and radiate to the forehead or behind the eyes.
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THE NECK & TINGLING FINGERS
People are often surprised to learn that the root cause of tingling in their fingers sometimes may actually be found in the neck. Tight neck muscles can lead to tingling in the fingers through:

  • Nerve compression: when neck muscles become tight, they can put pressure on the nerves that pass through or near them. This compression can disrupt the normal flow of nerve signals to the arms and hands, leading to tingling, numbness, or even pain in the fingers.
  • Cervical radiculopathy: cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes compressed or irritated, often due to a herniated disc, bone spur, or other degenerative changes in the spine. Tight neck muscles can however exacerbate this condition by pulling on the vertebrae or creating additional pressure around the nerve roots. When the nerves that extend into the arms and fingers are affected, it can result in tingling or a "pins and needles" sensation in the fingers.
  • Reduced blood flow: tight muscles can also restrict blood flow to the nerves. Insufficient blood flow can deprive nerves of the oxygen and nutrients they need to function properly, resulting in tingling or numbness in the extremities, including the fingers.
HOW ACUPUNCTURE MAY HELP
Acupuncture can be particularly effective in relieving tight neck muscles, and therefore also relieve related symptoms, such as headaches and nerve compression by:
  • Releasing muscle tension: acupuncture helps release muscle tension, improve blood circulation, and reduce inflammation, leading to relief of muscle tightness and pain.
  • Promoting blood flow: improved blood circulation is one of the key benefits of acupuncture. By increasing blood flow to the neck muscles, acupuncture helps to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the affected tissues which aids in the healing process and reduces muscle stiffness.
  • Reducing inflammation: acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. By reducing inflammation, acupuncture helps to alleviate pain and promote faster recovery.
  • Stimulating endorphin release: acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body. This can help reduce the sensation of pain and discomfort associated with tight neck muscles, providing both immediate and long-term relief.

The UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which provides evidence-based guidance and advice for health and care in England, in fact recognises acupuncture as a treatment option for chronic pain, including neck pain.



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]]><![CDATA[Immunity and Chinese Medicine]]>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:15:41 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/immunity-and-chinese-medicineAs the summer heat begins to fade, our bodies, like nature, go through a seasonal transformation. For many, this transition can bring a dip in energy, vulnerability to colds or flus, seasonal allergies, or a general feeling of imbalance. This is a key time to support and strengthen the immune system.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine offer ways to fortify your immune system naturally. As the external environment changes, these therapies help regulate internal balance, ensuring your body can adapt smoothly, stay resilient, and maintain optimal health.

IMMUNITY & CHINESE MEDICINE
Seasonal change, particularly the shift from summer to autumn, places a unique stress on the body. In Western medicine, this is partly due to:
  • Fluctuating temperatures that impact immune regulation
  • Decreased sunlight, leading to lower vitamin D levels
  • More time spent indoors, increasing exposure to viruses
  • Shifts in sleep patterns, activity levels, and diet

From a Chinese medicine standpoint, autumn is associated with the Lungs — the organ system responsible for respiration and immune defense. In Chinese medicine, the Lung system not only governs breathing and the skin, but also plays a central role in the body’s immune system. As the air becomes cooler and drier, this Lung system becomes more vulnerable, which is why respiratory issues — like coughs, sinus congestion, or asthma — are more common in autumn. It is also considered the ideal season to strengthen the Lungs and build overall immunity in preparation for the colder months ahead.

Acupuncture boosts immunity by:
  1. Regulating Immune Cell Activity. Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture can increase the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, T-cells, and macrophages — white blood cells that identify and eliminate pathogens. This helps your body respond more effectively to viruses and bacteria.
  2. Balancing Inflammatory Response. Inflammation is a natural part of the immune process, but chronic inflammation weakens the body over time. A 2022 study published in ‘Frontiers in Neuroscience’ found that acupuncture helps regulate pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, creating a more balanced immune environment.
  3. Reducing Stress and Cortisol Levels. Chronic stress is a well-known immune suppressant. Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system (your “rest and digest” state), helping to reduce cortisol levels and support deeper relaxation. A calmer nervous system allows the immune system to function more efficiently.
  4. Improving Sleep and Energy Levels. Restorative sleep is when the body repairs itself and produces immune cells. Acupuncture has been shown to regulate sleep cycles, reduce insomnia, and improve daytime energy — all crucial for keeping the immune system strong.

In addition to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine plays a vital role in supporting the body's internal defenses. Rather than taking a “one-size-fits-all” approach, herbal formulas are selected based on each person’s constitution, lifestyle, and symptoms. These formulas are designed not just to address existing imbalances but also to strengthen the body’s foundational systems. Importantly, Chinese herbal medicine focuses on building long-term resilience — not just fighting off illness when it appears. Many formulas used in autumn aim to gently nourish the body’s vital energy while promoting balance. 

ACUPUNCTURE RESEARCH UPDATE
For those of us that love research, it is exciting news that the most comprehensive review of acupuncture research has recently been published, called: ‘The state of evidence in acupuncture: A review of meta analyses and systematic reviews of acupuncture evidence (update 2017-2022)’. This review builds upon the ‘Acupuncture Evidence Project’ which was published in 2016, with an additional 862 high quality studies assessed.
The review confirms evidence of acupuncture’s positive effect for the following conditions:
  • Chronic pain
  • Postoperative nausea
  • Low back pain
  • Knee osteoarthritis
  • Migraine prophylaxis
  • Tension-type headache
  • Cancer-related fatigue
  • Menopause
  • Female infertility
  • Chronic prostatitis
It also confirms acupuncture’s evidence of potential positive effect for EIGHTY-TWO other conditions, including:
  • Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
  • Bell’s palsy
  • Breech presentation
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Hormone therapy-related effects
  • Hypertension
  • Insomnia
  • Postoperative pain
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Sciatica
  • Urinary incontinence
Importantly, the study also confirmed that acupuncture is a safe treatment when performed by a trained practitioner. We always recommend that people seek acupuncture from degree-qualified and APHRA registered practitioners.
To see the full list of conditions and to read the report: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103149]]><![CDATA[Acupuncture for Shoulder Pain]]>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 02:43:10 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/acupuncture-for-shoulder-painPicture
SHOULDER PAIN
​Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. Two common contributors to shoulder pain are tight muscles and bursitis. Both conditions can lead to significant discomfort, stiffness, and restricted movement, and if left untreated, can impact daily life. While conventional treatments like medication, physical therapy, and surgery are often recommended, acupuncture provides a natural, non-invasive solution to help alleviate pain and promote healing. We often have people come to our clinic for treatment due to shoulder pain that has impacted their usual activities such as playing lawn bowls, gardening, and doing daily tasks such as hanging clothes on the line. Sleep quality also tends to suffer, with them having a difficult time finding a comfortable position to sleep or being woken by pain. 
SHOULDER MUSCLES
The shoulder is a highly mobile joint, with muscles and tendons working together to allow a wide range of movements. When these muscles become tight or overworked, they can often lead to discomfort and pain. Tight shoulder muscles often result from:
  • Repetitive movements: activities such as lifting, reaching, or throwing can overwork the shoulder muscles, leading to chronic tightness and fatigue. This is commonly seen in people with repetitive work or sports and hobbies.
  • Injury: muscle strains or sprains can occur after trauma or sudden movements, causing the shoulder muscles to tighten as part of the body’s natural protective response.
  • Poor posture: sitting at a desk for long hours or slouching can put strain on the shoulder muscles, leading to tightness and pain.
  • Stress and tension: emotional stress can cause muscle tension, especially in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, which can lead to discomfort and pain.
Muscles tightness can lead to pain by: 
  • Reducing blood flow: when muscles are tight, blood flow to the affected area is restricted, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
  • Nerve compression: tight muscles can press on nerves in the shoulder, leading to radiating pain, tingling, or numbness in the arm or neck.
  • Trigger points: tight muscles can develop "trigger points", which are knots of muscle that refer pain to other areas, making it feel as though the pain is radiating from the shoulder.
SHOULDER BURSITIS
Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction between the bones, tendons, and muscles around the joints. In the shoulder, the subacromial (below the shoulder “tip”) bursa is the most commonly affected, leading to shoulder bursitis. Common causes of shoulder bursitis includes:
  • Overuse: repetitive overhead motions, such as in sports like swimming or tennis, can irritate the bursa, leading to inflammation.
  • Injury: a direct blow to the shoulder or sudden movement can inflame the bursa.
  • Degeneration: as we age, the bursa may become less flexible, making it more prone to irritation and inflammation.
  • Underlying conditions: conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can increase the risk of developing bursitis.
Why bursitis causes pain:
  • Inflammation: the primary cause of pain in shoulder bursitis is the swelling and irritation of the bursa, which creates pressure on surrounding tissues.
  • Pain with movement: shoulder bursitis causes pain, particularly during movements like lifting the arm, reaching overhead, or moving the shoulder in certain directions.
  • Limited range of motion: as the bursa swells, it restricts the shoulder's range of motion, making it difficult to perform everyday activities without discomfort.​

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​ACUPUNCTURE FOR SHOULDER PAIN
Acupuncture is effective in treating both muscle tension and inflammatory conditions like bursitis by::
  • Releasing muscle tension: acupuncture can help relax tight muscles by targeting specific points to reduce muscle contraction and promote relaxation.
  • Improving blood circulation: acupuncture enhances blood flow to the affected area, delivering oxygen and nutrients that are crucial for healing while flushing out toxins and metabolic waste.
  • Alleviating pain: acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which helps reduce discomfort. Additionally, acupuncture can alter pain pathways in the nervous system, providing immediate relief from shoulder pain.
  • Releasing trigger points: acupuncture can target specific trigger points in tight shoulder muscles, releasing the knots and relieving referred pain that may radiate down the arm or neck.
  • Reducing inflammation: acupuncture reduces inflammation by stimulating the body’s production of anti-inflammatory substances, which helps reduce swelling in the bursa and surrounding tissues.
  • Enhancing healing: by improving circulation, acupuncture helps accelerate tissue repair, reducing the recovery time for inflamed bursae and promoting faster healing of the shoulder joint.
Restoring mobility: acupuncture can help improve the range of motion in the shoulder by alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and relaxing the surrounding muscles, which often become tight due to the pain of bursitis.
]]><![CDATA[KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS]]>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:18:50 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/knee-osteoarthritisPicture
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that often causes pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, which can affect daily activities and reduce independence. As the cartilage in the knee joint wears away over time, bones can rub together, leading to discomfort and inflammation. While conventional treatments such as pain medication and even surgery are common, acupuncture offers a natural, drug-free alternative that may significantly reduce pain, improve function, and enhance overall quality of life for those living with knee osteoarthritis.
Some of the common symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:  
  • Pain: Often worsens with activity or long periods of sitting.
  • Stiffness: Especially after rest or in the morning.
  • Swelling: Inflammation around the knee joint.
  • Reduced Mobility: Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or bending the knee.  






















​HOW ACUPUNCTURE MAY HELP
Acupuncture may provide several benefits for those living with knee osteoarthritis:  
  • Pain Relief: Acupuncture has long been recognised for its ability to reduce pain. It stimulates the body’s natural production of endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers) and other chemicals that block pain signals. This helps relieve both acute and chronic pain associated with knee osteoarthritis.
  • Reducing Inflammation: Knee osteoarthritis often leads to inflammation in and around the joint, which exacerbates pain and stiffness. Acupuncture helps decrease the production of inflammatory markers in the body, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort.
  • Improving Circulation: Acupuncture improves blood flow to the affected area, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the knee joint. This enhanced circulation supports healing and can help prevent further degeneration of the cartilage.
  • Restoring Joint Mobility: Regular acupuncture treatments can help increase flexibility and range of motion in the knee. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, tension in the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the knee joint is reduced, which helps restore normal movement and ease discomfort.  
Acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis is one of the many conditions that have been extensively studied by western medical science. Acupuncture is recommended for knee osteoarthritis by a number of health organisations around the world, including The American College of Rheumatology, Osteoarthritis Research Society International, and The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in the UK.
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis begins with a consultation, during which we will assess your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. Based on this information, we will create a customised treatment plan. We will then insert thin, single-use, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points. These points may be located around the knee, leg, or even distal points on the body (such as the arm or back - which surprises many people!) that influences knee function. Once the needles are inserted, you will rest for about 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, you may experience a tingling sensation, warmth, or relaxation - many people fall asleep. A series of treatments is typically recommended for knee osteoarthritis.
ACUPUNCTURE FOR POST-OPERATIVE PAIN
Sometimes surgery is a necessary approach for addressing certain health conditions - whether that be for joint issues or other health concerns, as it may offer the best chance for recovery and improved quality of life when other treatments are insufficient. 
Acupuncture has been shown to provide several benefits for managing post-operative pain, including:
  • Pain Reduction: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which may help reduce the intensity of post-surgical pain. Studies show that acupuncture can decrease pain scores significantly compared to control groups receiving standard care alone.
  • Reduced Opioid Use: By alleviating pain effectively, acupuncture may help lower the reliance on opioids, which may minimise the risk of side effects such as nausea, dizziness, constipation, and addiction.
  • Faster Recovery: Acupuncture improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation, which may accelerate wound healing and tissue repair after surgery.
  • Reducing Secondary Symptoms: Acupuncture may assist with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and other side effects often associated with anesthesia or pain medications, making the recovery process more comfortable.
  • Reducing stress and anxiety, which are common after surgery, promoting better rest and recovery.
Research published in journals like ‘Pain Medicine’ and ‘The Journal of Pain’ has highlighted acupuncture’s role in significantly reducing post-operative pain and opioid consumption.
]]><![CDATA[ACUPUNCTURE FOR SCIATICA]]>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 03:06:09 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/acupuncture-for-sciatica1141297Though acupuncture is well known for its effectiveness in treating pain conditions, what often prompts people to come to see us at Bribie Acupuncture for treatment is not the pain itself but the impact the pain has on their quality of life. Pain can stop you from enjoying your morning walks, keep you off the golf course, or prevent you from running your best time in the next race.

One of the main nerves in our legs is called the sciatic nerve which traverses from the lower back, through the buttock and down the leg. When the nerve is inflamed, pain, numbness, and/or weakness is often felt in the buttock and upper leg - in some cases the pain can travel down to the feet, down the back or side of the leg. Sciatica can literally be a big pain in the butt! 

It is estimated that up to 40% of people experience sciatica at some point during their lives, most commonly in people in their 40’s or 50’s, and more commonly in men than women. Sciatic pain may be constant or it may be felt as a sudden pinching sensation. Oftentimes sciatica cannot be blamed on a specific trauma - sometimes simply bending, lifting, or straining may aggravate it. Even sitting for extended periods, such as during long car rides, may be the culprit. Pain is triggered when pressure is put on the sciatic nerve such as from the spinal discs or tight muscles, or more seriously spinal disc herniation, when a portion of the spinal disc bulges out of the spinal column and pushes on the sciatic nerve, or spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal.

Fortunately tight muscles or spasms are the most common cause of sciatica, which can be treated more easily. Often the root cause is a tight piriformis muscle in the buttocks, but other muscles in the lower back and pelvic region often contribute to sciatic pain.

TIGHT MUSCLES & MUSCLE SPASMS
Though the source of pain can sometimes be obvious, often more subtle dysfunctions in the nervous system result in neuropathic pain (nerve pain) which cannot be seen on x-rays or ultrasound scans. Oftentimes this pain involves the nerve to muscle connection where affected muscles that have become shortened/ tightened or overstretched/ loosened, physically compounds the pain due to reduced blood flow. A classic example is someone who suffers back pain after long periods of sitting: though their back muscles may of course be affected, often the muscles in their buttocks become overstretched and the muscles at the top of their thigh become overly tight (simply due to the body position while seated), and the muscles become inhibited or “switch off”, causing pain to refer to the back. Or, in the case of sciatica, the tight muscles could be pushing on the sciatic nerve. 

When muscles are inhibited, matters can become more complex as these muscles can feel weak and we often compensate by altering our posture, creating more dysfunction in other areas of the body, creating a domino effect. We likely all know someone who has injured their knee, then started walking with a tilted posture, and wound up also having back pain. 

The first step to treatment with acupuncture is an assessment of which muscles may be contributing to the condition. Once this is determined, we are able to find the points in which nerves meet those muscles, known as motor points. When an acupuncture needle is used on a motor point with an electric impulse, it creates a contraction and relaxation phase releasing tight contracted bands of muscle or tightens overstretched bands of muscle. This is like hitting a reset button. The results are immediate pain relief and improved muscle contractibility and mobility.

Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective treatment for sciatica, eliminating or significantly decreasing pain and increasing quality of life. Research has shown acupuncture to be successful in treating back pain and sciatica through the following mechanisms:
  • Stimulating nerves located in muscles and other tissues, leading to the release of endorphins which relieves stress and pain
  • Reducing inflammation and muscle stiffness and increasing joint mobility by increasing blood circulation in the affected area
  • Promoting regeneration of the sciatic nerve.
Acupuncture is a popular and effective treatment for sciatica which is without the side effects of prescription pain medications like NSAIDs and muscle relaxers. Clinical guidelines for low back pain in the United States are now almost universally recommending acupuncture for low back pain over previously-favoured pharmaceutical and surgical options. The American College of Physicians, Medicare/Medicaid and the Joint Commission (which establishes criteria for hospital accreditation) have all recommended acupuncture for low back pain.

​]]><![CDATA[Pumicestone small business awards]]>Tue, 30 May 2023 05:46:10 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/pumicestone-small-business-awards
​Thank you all for the support and taking us to the Top 10 in the ‘Best Health, Wellbeing and Fitness’ category in the Pumicestone Small Business Awards. We’re grateful for our Bribie Acupuncture community!
]]><![CDATA[Have tennis elbow or golfer's elbow?]]>Sun, 30 Apr 2023 14:00:00 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/have-tennis-elbow-or-golfers-elbow
Though elbow pain is common in athletes - and we do see our fair share of tennis players, golfers, pickleball players, and lawn bowlers - it is also common in those that perform repetitive tasks, such as avid gardeners. Tennis elbow refers to the inflammation of the tendons where they attach on the lateral (thumb side) of the elbow, whereas golfer’s elbow refers to the tendons on the medial (pinky side) of the elbow. They are also known as lateral epicondylitis and medial epicondylitis, respectively. The pain can vary from a burning sensation at the elbow to shooting pains down the forearm. When impacted, lifting minor objects, even as light as a coffee cup, can cause severe pain.

Other common symptoms include:
  • ​Tenderness on the lateral or medial side of the elbow
  • Pain when opening the hand (tennis elbow) or pain when making a fist (golfer’s elbow)
  • ​Difficulty holding, pinching, or gripping objects
When addressing tennis or golfer’s elbow, it is important to also assess the affected muscles in the forearm - which are often tight - in addition to the tendons themselves. Affected muscles often have become shortened/ tightened with overuse, and therefore put increased strain on the tendons and compound the pain.

ACUPUNCTURE FOR ELBOW PAIN
Typical treatments for elbow pain include over-the-counter pain relievers and cortisone injections, however acupuncture is commonly used as an effective, minimally invasive treatment to restore pain-free movement. There are several acupuncture techniques that may be used when treating elbow injuries, depending on each individual case. All of the techniques however, stimulate healing by bringing oxygenated blood to the injured area to flush out toxins and lactic acid, and to reduce inflammation. The techniques include:

  • Electroacupuncture: with acupuncture needles inserted at targeted areas of your elbow and forearm, a device is connected to the needles to deliver an electrical pulse. The stimulation relaxes the muscles, increases blood flow, and stimulates endogenous opioid endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.
  • Motor point acupuncture: motor points are specific locations in the muscles where the motor nerve can be easily stimulated. When an acupuncture needle is used on a motor point with an electric impulse, it creates a contraction and relaxation which releases tight contracted bands of muscle. This is like hitting a muscle reset button which provides pain relief and improved muscle contractibility and mobility.
  • Gua Sha is a type of friction massage that is used to stimulate circulation of oxygenated blood, remove scar tissue, and increase collagen production to promote healing.
  • Moxibustion involves external use of the herb mugwort (also known as moxa), which facilitates healing by reducing inflammation and increasing blood circulation.​

​We see elbow pain regularly in our clinic - both acute and chronic cases. The number of treatments needed varies with each person, however fewer treatments are typically required if the injury has just recently occurred. On average, patients with elbow injuries receive six treatments over three weeks. Treatment plans vary depending on the severity of the injury and individual response to acupuncture. To reduce the chance of injury:
  • Avoid repetitive tasks involving your arms and heavy lifting for extended periods
  • Be mindful of tension in your forearm muscles over a prolonged duration of time
  • Regularly stretch your forearms and hands to improve circulation
]]><![CDATA[​How does acupuncture work for hay fever?]]>Thu, 20 Apr 2023 14:00:00 GMThttps://www.bribieacupuncture.com/blog/how-does-acupuncture-work-for-hay-fever
The short answer is that acupuncture affects the immune system and reduces the allergic inflammatory response to allergens, and therefore symptoms, and also improves people’s tolerance to would-be allergens
Acupuncture for allergic rhinitis is one of the many conditions that have been extensively studied by western medical science - in fact some studies have found acupuncture to be more effective than medication, and that symptoms continued to improve for up to 3 months after treatment. Acupuncture has also been recommended in the allergic rhinitis (hay fever) clinical practice guideline of the Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery Foundation in the US as a treatment option for those who prefer a nonpharmacological treatment.
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