The Healing Practice of Mother Warming: A Postpartum Tradition

Mother warming is a postpartum treatment that supports recovery using moxibustion, a technique involving the burning of dried mugwort (Ai Ye/Artemisia). This gentle, warming therapy has been used to help nourish a new parent’s energy, promote healing, and restore balance after childbirth.

What is Mother Warming?

Mother warming focuses on applying heat to specific acupuncture points and areas of the body, particularly the lower abdomen or lower back. The warmth from moxibustion is believed to:

· Support the uterus: Encouraging the uterus to heal and return to its pre-pregnancy state.

· Boost circulation: Improving blood flow to enhance recovery.

· Restore energy (Qi): Replenishing the body's Qi and Yang, which may become depleted during childbirth.

· Relieve stress: Offering a calming and restorative effect, aiding emotional well-being.

When is Mother Warming Used?

Typically, mother warming is performed on day 4 or 5 after delivery. It’s a non-invasive way to gently ease the transition into postpartum life.

How is Moxibustion Applied?

A practitioner burns a moxa stick near the targeted area, allowing the soothing heat to penetrate the skin without direct contact. The warmth is pleasant and deeply relaxing. Often, a session is combined with other postpartum support strategies, such as acupuncture, for a holistic approach.

The Benefits of Mother Warming

1. Supports Postpartum Healing: By stimulating circulation and boosting Qi, it enhances the body’s natural recovery.

2. Relieves Aches and Pains: Particularly effective for back pain, pelvic discomfort, or feelings of coldness common after birth.

3. Improves Emotional Health: Warmth from moxa can be grounding, helping parents to feel centered and cared for.

4. Promotes Milk Supply: It may help enhance lactation by encouraging Qi flow.

Mother Warming: A Self-Care Ritual

While traditionally performed by a practitioner, with proper guidance, it’s also a practice that can be incorporated into a self-care routine at home. However, it’s important to ensure safety and proper technique, particularly if using moxa on sensitive areas.

Embrace Postpartum Balance

Whether you’re navigating your recovery or supporting someone you love, this practice is a gentle reminder of the importance of warmth, care, and restoration during this transformative time.

Please contact our office with any questions or for more information.

Acupuncture for Skin Health: Combatting Summer Sun Damage

Summer is a time for outdoor fun, beach days, and soaking up the sun. However, while the sun's warmth is enjoyable, it can also cause damage to your skin. Sun exposure, especially without proper protection, can lead to sunburn, premature aging, dark spots, and even increase the risk of skin cancer. If you've spent a lot of time under the sun this summer, you might be wondering how to repair and rejuvenate your skin. Acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a natural and holistic approach to restoring your skin's health after sun exposure.

How Does Acupuncture Benefit Skin Health?

1. Improving Blood Circulation:

- Acupuncture enhances blood flow to the skin, ensuring that it receives essential nutrients and oxygen. This increased circulation helps to repair damaged skin cells and promote the growth of new, healthy cells.

2. Reducing Inflammation:

- Excessive sun exposure can lead to inflammation, resulting in redness, irritation, and even long-term damage. Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation by balancing the body's internal systems and encouraging the release of natural anti-inflammatory substances.

3. Promoting Collagen Production:

- Collagen is a crucial protein that maintains skin elasticity and prevents wrinkles. Acupuncture stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage, leaving your skin looking youthful and vibrant.

4. Detoxifying the Skin:

- By promoting lymphatic drainage and enhancing the body's detoxification processes, acupuncture can help to clear out toxins that have accumulated in the skin due to sun exposure and environmental factors. This detoxification process can reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone.

Acupuncture Techniques for Skin Rejuvenation

1. Facial Acupuncture:

- Often referred to as "cosmetic acupuncture," facial acupuncture focuses on specific points on the face to enhance skin health. This technique can improve skin tone, reduce fine lines, and promote a healthy glow.

2. Body Acupuncture:

- Body acupuncture targets specific points on the body to address underlying imbalances that may contribute to skin issues. By treating the root cause of skin problems, body acupuncture can enhance overall skin health and prevent future damage.

Combining Acupuncture with Other Skincare Practices

While acupuncture can be helpful in promoting skin health, combining it with other skincare practices can maximize its benefits. Consider the following tips:

- Use Sunscreen: Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before going outdoors to protect your skin from further damage.

- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

- Nourish Your Skin: Use gentle, natural skincare products that support skin repair and rejuvenation.

- Eat a Healthy Diet: Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support skin health and overall well-being.

Acupuncture offers a natural and effective way to combat summer sun damage and promote healthy, radiant skin. Whether you're dealing with sunburn, premature aging, or simply want to enhance your skin's appearance, acupuncture can be an excellent addition to your skincare routine.

Please contact the office with any questions!

Take care!

How Acupuncture Can Help You Get a Better Night's Rest

Are you struggling to get a good night's sleep? You're not alone. Many people worldwide suffer from insomnia and other sleep disorders, turning to various treatments to find relief. Acupuncture can be one of those things that may help those who are struggling to sleep. Let's dive into how acupuncture can help you achieve the restful sleep you deserve.

How Acupuncture Can Improve Your Sleep

1. Regulates Sleep Hormones:

   - Acupuncture may influence the production and release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and melatonin, which are crucial for regulating sleep cycles. Increased levels of these hormones can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep.

2. Reduces Stress and Anxiety:

   - Stress and anxiety are significant contributors to insomnia. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and helps calm the nervous system, making it easier for you to unwind and drift off to sleep.

3. Relieves Pain:

   - Chronic pain is a common sleep disruptor. By alleviating pain, acupuncture can help you sleep more comfortably and wake up feeling more refreshed.

4. Balances Energy Flow:

   - According to Traditional Chinese medicine, a balanced flow of Qi is essential for good health. Acupuncture helps restore this balance, which can improve overall well-being and sleep quality.

Scientific Support for Acupuncture and Sleep

Numerous studies have explored the effects of acupuncture on sleep. A review of randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture significantly improved sleep quality and duration in patients with insomnia compared to placebo treatments.

Research suggests that acupuncture may increase the production of endogenous melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Additionally, it may modulate the autonomic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the time it takes to fall asleep. 

Acupuncture can be a valuable tool in your quest for better sleep. By regulating sleep hormones, reducing stress, relieving pain, and balancing energy flow, this ancient practice offers a holistic approach to improving sleep quality. If you're tired of tossing and turning, acupuncture might be a helpful for you!

Let us know if you have any questions!

Dr. Alex

1. Fei-Yi Zhao a b, a, b, et al. Can acupuncture improve objective sleep indices in patients with primary insomnia? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Medicine. February 2, 2021. Accessed May 26, 2024. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945721000708.

Alleviating Allergies: The Role of Acupuncture in Finding Relief

As the seasons change, allergies for folks can come along with it. There are many things that can help reduce allergy symptoms. Among them is acupuncture. Acupuncture and acupressure can be another tool in your toolbox help reduce symptoms.

The Role of Acupuncture:

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and restore balance. In acupuncture allergies can be seen as some king of imbalance in the and its relationship with the environment.

The goal of acupuncture aims to help rebalance the body to help alleviate allergy symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Benefits of Acupuncture for Allergies:

1. Symptom Relief: Acupuncture can provide relief from allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, sinus pressure, headache, sneezing, and itchy eyes. It can help the body clear out by helping increasing circulation to the area.

2. Reduced Inflammation: Allergic reactions often involve inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce inflammation by promoting the release of anti-inflammatory substances in the body, helping to alleviate swelling and congestion.

3. Immune Function: Acupuncture may be able to help moderate the body’s immune response. Possibly making it better equipped to handle allergens without overreacting. By supporting overall immune function, acupuncture can help reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions.

Acupressure Points

Here are some points you can massage that may help alleviate your symptoms.

To stimulate these acupressure points, use your fingertips or thumbs to apply steady pressure for about 30-60 seconds. You can also gently massage the points in a circular motion.

1. UB2 : Located on the face, just above the inner corner of the eye, in a small depression on the inside of the eyebrow. Apply firm pressure to this point for a few minutes to help relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

2. LI20 : Located on either side of the nose, in the hollows next to the nostrils. Stimulating LI20 with gentle pressure can help clear nasal congestion and relieve sinus pain.

3. LI4: Located on the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger, LI4 is a commonly used acupressure point for treating various conditions, including allergies. It helps with things going on related to the head.

4. LI11: Located on the outer part of the elbow crease. It can help reduce inflammation

5. LU7. Located on the arm, about 1.5 inches above the wrist crease in a small depression along the radius bone. 

It can help clear lungs of mucus, improve circulation through the lungs and nasal passages, and boosts overall lung health. This point also connects to the neck and can relieve neck tension. 

6. ST36 : Located on the lower leg, about four finger widths below the knee and one finger width toward the outside of the leg. ST36 may help for supporting the immune system and alleviating allergy symptoms.

Please let us know if you have any questions or if you are interested in learning more about how acupuncture and chiropractic care can help with allergies.

Feel free to contact our office at 216-952-3830 or info@clechiropractic.co

How Does Acupuncture Help PCOS?

September is PCOS Awareness Month!

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a condition due to insulin resistance.  Women with PCOS experience a hormonal imbalance as insulin stimulates secretion of testosterone by the ovaries.   Diet and stress are major risk factors to PCOS.  Diets high in refined carbohydrates (starchy, sugary foods) can lead to insulin resistance.  When we are in a state of chronic stress, we pump out a lot of cortisol regularly.  Cortisol raises our blood sugar and requires out body to produce insulin to manage it. 

Symptoms of PCOS can include weight gain, irregular periods, unwanted facial hair, hair thinning, hair loss, acne, and infertility. 

Metformin is frequently prescribed to patients with PCOS.  Metformin helps get blood sugar under control.  However, there are ways to regulate your blood sugar with diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes.

How does acupuncture fit in?

Regular acupuncture sessions can reduce testosterone, regulate ovulation (and regulate menstruation), and reduce stress.  Acupuncture is recommended for 3 months prior to TTC to be more effective. 

When I am working with anyone with hormonal imbalance or trying to conceive I will order labs, including hormones on cycle day 3 and cycle day 21.  These labs include full thyroid panel, hormone levels, vitamin D, and maybe a few others depending on your history.  Why CD3 and CD21?  Well, looking at CD3 of your menstrual cycle helps us determine the “baseline” of your hormones.  On CD21 (or 7 days past ovulation), we look at progesterone to see if you have ovulated.  Depending on your labs, an individualized supplementation plan will be recommended.

Reducing environmental hormonal exposure and making changes to your diet have been also shown in research to be very effective in managing PCOS and improving overall health.

Questions?  Email me!

In health,
Dr. Candace

Postpartum Care: Coping with Body Image

Postpartum is a period of adjustment and healing for the mother. During this time, you will bond with your baby but you may also experience body changes.  Body pain, urinary incontinence and/or muscle tension during your fourth trimester can be present. The cause? It could have been a strained muscles during delivery, pelvic floor muscle weakness, pregnancy hormones (loose ligaments), breastfeeding positions, holding/lifting baby and core muscles instability/weakness. 

After a few weeks, some of these issues may resolve. But what if you are still suffering from back pain for weeks (even months!) after giving birth? Experiencing urinary incontinence when exercising, laughing or running? Feeling constant body tension and anxiety? If you say yes to any of these questions,  know that you are not alone.

It is quite common to experience some of these symptoms after either vaginal or cesarean birth.  However, it does not mean that it is normal and that you have to deal with it because you just had a baby. Know that you do have options! 

The following treatments can help you make your postpartum journey more enjoyable:

• Chiropractic care - chiropractic adjustments restore joint mobility reducing restrictions in your spine and pelvis relieving any nerve pressure present. When your body is working  and moving properly, it can speed your recovery and healing.  This is a plus during the fourth trimester!

• Massage therapy - postpartum massages may help to relax your muscles, increase blood circulation and lower stress hormones, bringing stress relief. Massage can help during your emotional transition bringing relaxation to your life. 

• Acupuncture - acupuncture treatment can be beneficial with stress management, pain relief, promotion of healthy digestion and improved quality of sleep. 

• Pelvic floor PT  - Specialized PT can assess for any pelvic floor muscle tightness or weakness that can be causing your urinary incontinence and back pain. Pelvic PT will guide you in the right direction. 

Reach out if you are experiencing pain, discomfort or just looking for additional postpartum care information. Your body may need a little push to get back in balance. We can help! 

Cleveland Chiropractic & Integrative Health Center

(216) 952-3830

www.clechiropractic.com

Acupuncture for IVF

If you are reading this, I’m sorry.  You were brought here for a reason.  Looking for more answers, looking for hope, maybe looking to “do everything you can do”.  This may be your first round of IVF or this may be your last round.  Every couple or person undergoing IVF does it for a different reason.  You (and your partner) may have been diagnosed with unexplained infertility or an ovarian disorder, you may be working with a sperm or egg donor, you may have a genetic disorder and are planning to test your embryos.  Whatever brought you here, I want to thank you for being here and considering alternative medicine.  This journey is not easy and IVF is not easy.  I want to remember that you are strong.  I hope this blog can provide information on acupuncture and Chinese medicine methodology so that you can have a better understanding on what to expect during acupuncture treatments and can decide if acupuncture is something you would like to incorporate into your treatment plan. 

How can acupuncture help?

Acupuncture is beneficial before and after both an egg retrieval and embryo transfer.  It can improve overall fertility, regulate hormones, and normalize the menstrual cycle. 

·      Acupuncture can help improve blood flow to the pelvis and reproductive organs. 

·      Undergoing fertility treatments is stressful: from the appointments, to the medications, to the constant fluctuations of emotions, and the financial burden, acupuncture can help your body respond to stress.  It helps your muscles relax, it slows your breathing, and it calms the mind.  Sometimes during treatments, some people are so relaxed they fall asleep.

·      Acupuncture improves the changes of having a baby:  we are looking at more than just getting you pregnant.  We want you to bring a baby home.  Acupuncture doesn’t stop after the embryo transfer. 

What does an initial acupuncture appointment for preconception look like?

An initial acupuncture appointment for preconception will typically last about 1.5-2 hours.  Your practitioner will want an in depth understanding of your medical history and fertility journey.  Your provider will use visual inspection, feel your pulse, and look at your tongue in their assessment.  A Chinese medicine diagnosis will be given based on your history and examination. The acupuncture needles may be placed in your arms, legs, head and face, abdomen, back, and even your ears depending on your Chinese medicine diagnosis.

What do follow up treatments look like?

Expect your entire appointment to last about 1 hour.  Your acupuncturist will likely ask about any symptoms you are experiencing, check your pulse and tongue while they perform a visual assessment, and then he or she will insert the needles!  The needles are retained about 30 minutes and then your practitioner will remove them and discuss any of your concerns.  No two women are the same.  Even when working with two women, both diagnosed with diminished ovarian reserve from a Western Medicine doctor, their acupuncture treatments may look very different.  When supporting women using the Chinese medicine methodology, many providers will give women dietary recommendations, lifestyle recommendations, and supplementation as this takes a whole systems approach.  

What will my fertility doctor (or reproductive endocrinologist) say about this?

Honestly, it depends on the provider.  I have had some patients have their RE say they are “wasting their money”, but can “do what they want” and I have seen other RE’s strongly encourage their patients to do acupuncture.  Some fertility clinics have an acupuncturist on site that patients work directly with.  Over the last few years, however, I have been noticing more and more RE’s suggest acupuncture and other types of alternative medicine for their patients.

Quick Details:

·      Dr. Candace prefers acupuncture weekly leading up to IUI or IVF.

·      She recommends acupuncture before and after IUI or IVF.  

·      Dr. Candace recommends continuing acupuncture throughout the first trimester.

Stay turned for Part 2: Acupuncture to support early pregnancy.

Candace Gesicki is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Diplomate of the American Board of Chiropractic Acupuncture.  She has been supporting women .  She is offering free 15 minute phone consultations for those wondering how acupuncture can support them on their fertility journey.  Email Dr. Candace directly to schedule a phone consult or schedule your initial appointment online.