Why do I have a cold? It’s summer!
The common cold is usually associated with winter and the seasonal transition period to spring. But now it is also often experienced in summer due to lifestyle factors. Most people today spend much of their summertime in artificially cooled environments in low temperatures. The cold air frequently blows directly on us and we experience extreme temperature differences. The Common Cold The common cold, also known simply as a cold, is an infectious disease of the upper respiratory...
Acupuncture for a Happier Period
Menstrual pain, or dysmenorrhea, is the most commonly reported menstrual disorder. More than half of those who go through menstruation experience this each month. Menstrual pain can be unbearable, but it does not have to be a painful constant every month as pain is not a natural part of the menstruation process. In fact, menstruation should be painless and accompanied by minimal pre-and post-menstrual signs and symptoms (PMS). So what exactly...
Chronic Pain and Fibromyalgia: Step by Step to a Pain-Free Life
Many people suffer chronic pain and fibromyalgia. They are both quite common and can be extremely difficult to manage and treat. In understanding chronic pain it is useful to understand how the body registers and manages pain in the body. The basic theory of pain is that an initial event occurs such as a trauma, infection or illness which the body perceives as having the potential to damage the body. This...
Functional Medicine (Int. Med.)
How Much Alcohol is Safe to Drink?
Patients often ask me, “How much alcohol is safe to drink?” Unfortunately, many will not like the answer. But, large scale studies have shown that there really is no safe dosage. While a lot of media attention has gone to some research that focuses on possible health benefits of drinking alcohol in moderation, a large new report warns that the harms of alcohol greatly outweigh any potential benefits. The study looked...
How to Get Rid of Joint Stiffness and Sore Muscles
Joint stiffness and muscle soreness are often the cause of pain. What then is the cause of joint and muscle issues? This is a little more complicated as we often don't feel well when we haven't done anything and don't feel well after exercise. It would seem then that it’s a “damned if you do and damned if you don't” kind of situation. However, the key is balance. If you normally...
What’s up with the ‘Glass Cups’ in a TCM doctor’s treatment room?
What is cupping therapy? Cupping therapy is a treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine in which glass cups are heated to create a vacuum against the skin. It increases surface blood flow which results in resolution of pain and a sense of well-being. The overall internal flow of Qi and blood circulation is enhanced, stimulating anti-inflammatory effects and promoting tissue recovery. Depending on the cupping technique used, cups may be retained in position...