For The Health Of It!

Predicting a Healthy 2012

2012-01-18T15:01:00.000-08:00

January 2012
Qi Mail

Julee Miller AP, DOM,LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville
3840 Belfort Road
Jacksonville, FL 32216
(904) 448-0046/www.hpjax.com

In the midst of all the new year resolutions, a very important decision to make is determining to live a healthy life. Healthy habits will protect you and help you live a longer and better life. Being healthy is not just about absence of a disease, its also about wholeness mentally and socially. Here are a few tips to help you stay healthy this year.

1. Sleep.
Studies have shown that chronic sleep loss increases the risk for many diseases and affects immunity,thus reducing the ability of the body to fight infections. Through hectic work schedules and the busy city life,its important to find time for rest. Most people need a solid 7 hours for their internal clock to reset, function properly and feel rested. If you're getting to bed after 11pm, it's too late. And remove all extra "stimuli" from the bedroom: books, laptops, phones and TVs. Unplug and unwind for a good night sleep.
2. Have fun:
Whatever it is you do that makes you happy and relaxed,spend some quality time doing them this year; whether its hanging out with friends, listening to music, reading or praying. Christopher Morley said 'cherish all your happy moments, they make a fine cushion for old age'
Scientifically, happiness releases endorphins which is your body's natural pain killers and laughter reduces stress hormones, reduces blood pressure, tightens abdominal muscles and improves memory. So get laughing- go to a Comedy Club or yuck it up with friends. Often.

3: Taste the Rainbow
Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables daily. The daily goal should be 5 vegetables and 2 fruits- each and every day. Having a balanced diet provides the body with energy and nutrients to function and also boosts the body's immune system. Spruce up your kitchen with colorful produce that is packed with disease-fighting plant compounds. It’s pretty AND good for you, too.

4. Sit Less, Move More

· Groundbreaking research shows that for every hour a day you spend sitting, your risk of death increases by 11%.

· Even small movements throughout the day, such as fidgeting, can add up to major health benefits.

· Dr. Oz recommends getting 10,000 steps a daily=5miles. BUY a pedometer so you can keep track of each step you make toward optimal health.

· Exercise has benefits both physically, mentally and socially. Paul Dudley White an American Cardiologist once said 'A vigorous five-mile walk will do more good for an unhappy but otherwise healthy adult than all the medicine and psychology in the world'

· JUST MOVE: 30 minutes a day most days. Enjoy a group exercise class, go for a walk, give the car a good scrub. Whatever gets the blood pumping- Get up and GO!

5: East Sensibly
Look for healthy eating options rather than fad diets. All fad diets may offer quick weightloss, but few offer instructions on how to change your eating habits and lifestyle. Once these diets end, there is an inevitable weight GAIN because habits haven't changed. Try resolving to get more fiber in your diet this year like more fish or fresh fruit. Any diet change is easier if you take slow, small steps. For example:

· Vow to add a veggies or fruits to your brown bag lunch daily.

· Cook at home at least once per week.

· Package up a single serving of your favorite whole-grain cereal, then treat it as your mid-morning snack.

Most importantly: Avoid fast food restaurants!! The food is full of sodium, fat and unnecessary calories. For example: an average McDonalds meal consisting of: 1 Big and Tasty, 1 french fry order, 1 large coke, and 1 McFlurry has a whopping 1842 calories!!! So for the suggested daily caloric intake of just 2500 calories for men and 2000 for women- that's almost the ENTIRE day caloric intake in just 1 meal. Not to mention the sodium and fat content....

6: Cleanse yourself

With WATER. It's the best beverage to drink and it’s cheap. 8 cups a day can be daunting, so think small.

· Drink one glass first thing in the morning, before you brush your teeth.

· Keep a glass or bottle at your desk and when it is empty, get a refill.

· Resolve to drink one more cup of water today than you had yesterday.

· Not drinking enough water deprives your cells of the fluid they need, in turn causing fatigue. Coffee, soda and energy drinks dehydrate your body and actually lead to lower energy levels. Water is the original energy drink.

· Kick diabetes with this drink
Staying hydrated with 34 ounces of water a day made people in a 9-year French study 36 percent less likely to develop high blood sugar or diabetes.

7: Resist the Munchies

Eating of junk food should be minimized as they increase the risk of developing chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension

8. Stop Smoking. It’s just not sexy. Just ask the Marlboro Man

9. Keep in touch
Go for at least one medical check up this year, many diseases are better managed when detected early.
This also means keeping up with your cancer screenings: mammograms, prostate and colorectal.

· Having regular bone density screenings after the age of 40 is also suggested. Annually measuring hormone levels and keeping them balanced by an expertly trained hormone doctor can also help prevent disease and even some cancers.

10. Have Sex

A healthy sex life with your partner helps you stay bonded and also provides a good workout. Now a new study shows that sex is also good for your brain, leading to improved interconnections in the brain and
significant stress reduction.

11. Get a massage or Acupuncture 1x/month
The health benefits of Acupuncture and Massage are endless. From improved circulation, decreased stress, improved sleep, to boosting the immune system.
Chinese Medicine is one of the most widely used Health Care Systems today. Acupuncture has been practiced for over 2,500 years and is currently sanctioned by the W.H.O and the NIH to effectively treat over 47 conditions including:

· Low back pain

· Sciatica

· Tennis Elbow

· Frozen Shoulder Syndrome

· Insomnia

· Depression

· Chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting

· Neck pain

· Anxiety

· Insomnia

· Headaches

· Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

· Allergic Rhinitis/ Sinusitis

· Tennis and Golfers Elbow

· Smoking Cessation

· Infertiltiy

· Osteoarthritis

· Stress

· Common Cold

· Addictions

The benefits of Acupuncture are:

· It is a natural health care system

· Very few side-effects

· Calming

· Immediate stress reliever

· Promotes relaxation

· Promotes natural healing and good health

· Improves immune system function

· Improves sleep

· Improves overall state of wellness

· Decreases pain

· Balances hormones

Call today to make an appointment and achieve those Health and Wellness Goals!

Be Healthy. Stay Healthy.

New Year Goal Setting with Acupuncture

2012-01-16T12:44:00.000-08:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture NewsletterJanuary 2012

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Create Lasting Resolve to Reach Your Goals with Acupuncture

The start of the new year is a time of looking back at what we have achieved in the past year and looking forward to the future. This period of remembrance and resolution may be challenging but it is both productive and rewarding. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help achieve the change you seek as it assists in illness prevention, stress relief, minimizes aches and pains, improves energy and nurtures balance. This calm and clarity strengthens your resolve as you take the next step in achieving your goals.

Here are a few ways that Acupuncture can help you achieve your goals:

Lose Weight
Losing weight is the most common New Year's resolution. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help you reach your goal weight and maintain it by promoting better digestion, smoothing emotions, reducing appetite, improving metabolism, and eliminating food cravings--all of which can help energize the body, maximize absorption of nutrients, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress the appetite and reduce anxiety.

Get in Shape
Renewed enthusiasm to exercise in order to enhance fitness levels, train for a competition, or lose weight can come at a painful price for those who try to do too much too quickly. Recent studies show that acupuncture effectively treats sports injuries such as strains, sprains, musculoskeletal pain, swollen muscles and shin splints.

Eliminate Stress
Stress reduction is always on the top ten list for New Year's resolutions and for a good reason; it is often the cause of illness and deterioration of health. Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of stress, anxiety and lowering blood pressure. In addition to acupuncture, Oriental medicine offers a whole range of tools that can be integrated into your life to keep stress in check.

Improved Quality of Life
If pain is keeping you from living life to the fullest, acupuncture can help as it has no side effects and can be helpful for all types of pain, regardless of the cause or where it is located. Increasingly, people are looking for more natural approaches to help relieve painful conditions instead of relying on medication. In addition to reducing pain, acupuncture also hastens the healing process by increasing circulation and attracting white blood cells to an injured area.

Call today to see how Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can help you keep your resolutions and prepare for the year ahead @ (904) 448-0046!

Healthy Brain Habits
Keeping the goals we have set for ourselves in addition to outlining and completing the tasks needed to accomplish those goals can be overwhelming. Here are a few steps you can take to help optimize brain health and sharpen your memory:

Eat More Produce - Studies that focus on food and memory show that the more produce you eat, the better. One 25-year Harvard Medical School study of more than 13,000 women showed that the participants who ate relatively high amounts of vegetables over the years had less age-related decline in memory. Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, and leafy green vegetables had the biggest effect on helping women retain their memory during the course of the study. In another study, the phytochemicals, anthocyanin (found in berries of all colors and cherries) and quercetin (found in onions, kale and apples), actually reversed some of the age-related memory deficits in laboratory animals.

Take Care of Your Heart - A healthy heart makes for a healthy brain. Because oxygen and nutrients are carried in the blood stream, anything that impedes blood flow will starve those all-important brain cells. Review your blood pressure and cholesterol level. Know your numbers and if they are elevated, take immediate measures to bring them down.

Get a Good Night's Sleep -When we sleep, the brain has time to recharge. Studies show that 7-8 hours of sleep a night helps to strengthen memory. Practicing good sleep habits helps keep the brain and the rest of the body functioning at its best.

Exercise - Regular physical activity has been shown to decrease the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease by about half. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and helps regulate blood sugar levels, both of which improve brain function and memory. Aim for 30 minutes a day.

Challenge Your Brain - Keep your mind active and challenged. Brain function decreases with age. Studies show that cognitive exercise can improve blood flow to the brain. Spend at least 15 minutes each day on a mental exercise such as a crossword puzzle, journaling or learning a new language in order to slow memory loss.
Feeling a little foggy? Having trouble concentrating?

Massage acupuncture point Du 20 for some mental clarity: this is located on top of the head, midway between the ears. It is used to clear the mind and improve focus.

Stimulate the point with your index finger 35-40 seconds for a quick "brain boost."

The Will Power Connection

Is there a body/mind connection to will power?

According to the principles of Acupuncture and Oriental medicine there is. Will power, or "Zhi," is said to reside in the kidneys and the state of the Kidney Qi directly correlates to the fortitude of our will power.

In Oriental medicine, disease prevention begins with a protective layer around the exterior of the body called wei qi, or defensive energy. If you catch colds easily, have low energy and require a long time recuperating from an illness, your wei qi may be deficient.

Nourishing Qi can help greatly enhance the body's ability to thrive in times of stress, aid in healing, prevent illness and increase vitality. According to Oriental medicine, recharging your battery and regeneration of vital energy, Qi, will help you live, look and feel your best!

This email was sent to: healthpointejax@gmail.com

Alleviate Your Stress with Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

2011-12-29T13:19:00.000-08:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture NewsletterDecember 2011

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Alleviate Your Stress with Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

As a normal part of life, stress enables us to get things done. If left unmanaged, stress can lead to emotional, psychological, and even physical problems. Stress causes a disruption in the flow of vital energy, or Qi, through the body. These energetic imbalances can throw off the immune system or cause symptoms of pain, sleep disturbances, abnormal digestion, headaches, menstrual irregularities, aggravation of already troublesome health conditions and, over time, more serious illnesses can develop.

Stressful situations that last over a long period of time can create an ongoing low-level stress that puts continual pressure on the nervous system, increasing activity, and can cause the overproduction of hormones. The extra stress hormones over an extended period of time may wear out the body's reserves, lead to fatigue, depression, a weakened immune system, and a host of serious physical and psychological ailments.

Some signs of stress overload include:

- anxiety or panic attacks
- feelings of constant pressure, hassled and hurried
- irritability and moodiness
- physical symptoms such as stomach problems, headaches, or even chest pain
- allergic reactions, such as eczema or asthma
- problems sleeping
- overindulgence in food, alcohol, smoking, or drugs
- sadness or depression

Stress is often the cause of illness and the deterioration of health. Finding a release valve for your stress can help you stay healthy. According to Oriental medicine, stress, frustration, and unresolved anger can play an important part in throwing the immune system off and allowing pathogens to affect the body. Through acupuncture, these energy blockages can be addressed. Acupuncture points can help energy flow smoothly, and alleviate not only the symptoms of stress and anxiety, but the stress and anxiety itself.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of stress. Acupuncture improves circulation of blood throughout the body, which oxygenates the tissues and cycles out cortisol and other waste chemicals. The calming nature of acupuncture also decreases heart rate, lowers blood pressure and relaxes the muscles.

In addition to acupuncture, Oriental medicine offers a wide range of tools and techniques that can be integrated into your wellness plan to keep stress in check. These tools include Tui Na, Qi Gong exercises, dietary therapy, meditations and acupressure that you can administer at home.

While it isn't always possible to remove the external forces causing stress, the ability to effectively deal with stress is a choice. Take time for yourself to cultivate the energy you need to handle your stress more skillfully and effectively.

If you or someone you know is experiencing stress or a stress related disorder, contact us for more information about how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help you regain peace of mind, regulate your immune system and stay healthy and schedule an appointment today @ (904) 448-0046!

Acupuncture Gives Hope to Patients with PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a severe type of anxiety disorder. PTSD results from a person witnessing or being involved in a traumatic event that causes intense fear, helplessness or horror, such as, a natural disaster, rape, childhood abuse, a tragic accident, or war. Signs and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder typically begin within three months of a traumatic event but can, in some instances, occur years after the event.

Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder include:

1. Intrusive memories - flashbacks and nightmares of events

2. Avoidance and numbing - feeling emotionally numb, hopelessness about the future, avoiding anything that is a reminder of the precipitating event.

3. Hyperarousal - increased anxiety, irritability or anger, self-destructive behavior (e.g., excessive drinking), and an exaggerated startle response (jumping at sounds)

Acupuncture as Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
In the last couple of years, acupuncture, has been getting more attention as a treatment for PTSD, particularly from military and veterans since soldiers post combat are at a high risk for suffering from PTSD. The results from acupuncture are hopeful. Time and again, acupuncture has proven to be an effective modality for treating the symptoms of PTSD.

Acupuncturists Without Borders (AWB), a group that previously provided relief to the survivors of the earthquake in Haiti and hurricane in New Orleans, launched The Military Stress Recovery Project. This organization provides free acupuncture treatments for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as their families. Treated military personnel have reported improved mental clarity, less anxiety, and a reduction in stress.

There are good precedents for the use of acupuncture to treat post-traumatic stress disorder. Walter Reed Medical Center, a military hospital, has begun to investigate acupuncture as a viable treatment for returning veterans.

Researchers at the University of Louisville School of Medicine conducted a clinical trial examining the effects of acupuncture on the symptoms of PTSD. They analyzed depression, anxiety, and impairment in 73 people who had been diagnosed with PTSD and found that acupuncture provided treatment effects similar to group cognitive-behavioral therapy. Both acupuncture and cognitive-behavioral therapy were superior to the control group. Additionally, treatment effects of acupuncture and group therapy were maintained for 3 months after the end of treatment.

Why does acupuncture help the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder? Correctly placed needles help the body re-regulate itself from the effects of stress, PTSD, depression and anxiety. In turn, this allows the individual to focus on their activities and enable them to deal with daily events.

Source: Hollifield, M., Sinclair-Lian, N., Warner, T., and Hammerschlag, R. "Acupuncture for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial." The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, June, 2007 V195(6):504-13.

Coping With Holiday Stress
The holiday season can be filled with a dizzying array of demands, visitors, travel and frantic shopping trips. For many people, it is also a time filled with sadness, self-reflection, loneliness and anxiety. Compound the usual seasonal pressures with economic strain and you many find this to be one of the most emotionally trying times of the year.

Boost your overall ability to handle seasonal stress by replenishing the nutrients that stress hormones deplete by including the following foods in your meals:

Blackberries - Blackberries are jam packed with vitamin C, calcium and magnesium. Vitamin C has shown to be a powerful stress reducer that can lower blood pressure and return cortisol levels to normal faster when taken during periods of stress.

Cruciferous Vegetables – Cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, and kale are full of stress-relieving B vitamins. Cauliflower is also one of the very best sources of vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid. Pantothenic acid helps turn carbohydrates and fats into usable energy and improves your ability to respond to stress by supporting your adrenal glands.

Salmon – Salmon is a healthy and delicious way to get your dose of B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. Among the many benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, a 2003 study published in Diabetes & Metabolism found that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids significantly reduced the stress response and kept the stress hormones cortisol and epinephrine in check.
Tools to Effectively Manage Stress
Increase your ability to effectively manage stress by including these five tools in your wellness plan!

Eat Healthily - More than 1400 chemical changes occur as stress hormones, such as cortisone, deplete important nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin C and magnesium from the body. A balanced, varied diet provides your body with the nutrients it needs to handle stress.

Exercise - Exercise stimulates the body to release endorphins, which are brain chemicals that improve mood and relieve stress.

Outlook - Your outlook influences the way you see things. Change is a healthy, normal part of life. Think of challenges as opportunities.

Relax - Relaxing is a release valve for stress. Relaxation methods vary by individual and can include meditation, yoga and exercise.

Restorative Sleep - Practicing good sleep hygiene will give your body an opportunity to recover from everyday stress.

Treatment of Neurological Disorders with Acupuncture

2011-11-15T13:26:00.000-08:00

Qi Mail™
November 2011

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216

904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Treatment of Neurological Disorders with Acupuncture

A neurological disorder refers to a problem with the nervous system, which is a complex, sophisticated system that regulates and coordinates the body’s activities. Nerve pain can arise from trauma, inflammation, stroke, disease, infection, nerve degeneration, exposure to toxic chemicals, and nutrient deficiencies.

Nerve pain is usually a sharp shooting pain or a constant burning sensation. Typically occurring in the same location with each episode, it can often be traced along the nerve pathway. Sometimes weakness or impaired function in the affected area occurs and the skin may be either overly sensitive or numb.

Some common neurological disorders acupuncture treats include:

Peripheral Neuropathy - damage to the peripheral nervous system, which transmits information from the brain and spinal cord to every other part of the body. Neuropathy caused by diabetes often affects the feet.
Trigeminal Neuralgia - facial pain, sometimes called Tic Douloureux, affects the trigeminal nerve which is responsible for impulses of touch, pain, pressure and temperature sent to the brain from the face, jaw, and gums.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - also known as median nerve entrapment, it occurs when swelling or irritation of the nerve or tendons in the carpal tunnel results in pressure on the median nerve.
Headaches - Headaches that can be treated with acupuncture include migraines, tension headaches, headaches occurring around the menstrual cycle, sinus headaches and stress-related headaches.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine have been found effective as a conjunctive therapy for several neurological disorders and in treating pain and inflammation.

If you or someone you know is suffering from a neurological disorder or nerve pain please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment @ (904) 448-0046!

Acupuncture Treats Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy describes damage to the peripheral nervous system, which transmits information from the brain and spinal cord to every other part of the body. In most cases, peripheral neuropathy is secondary to conditions such as diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, alcoholism, nutritional deficiencies, AIDS, or poisoning from heavy metals, chemotherapy, or various drugs.

Other causes include direct physical injury to a nerve (trauma), penetrated injuries, fractures or dislocated bones, pressure involving superficial nerves (ulna or radial) which can result from prolonged use of crutches or staying in same position, tumor, intraneural hemorrhage, exposure to cold, compression or entrapment (i.e. carpal tunnel syndrome), radiation or atherosclerosis.

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may include:

- numbness or insensitivity to pain or temperature

- burning, tingling, or prickling sensation

- sharp or burning pain

- cramps

- extreme sensitivity to touch

- loss of balance and coordination,

- muscle weakness

- muscle wasting

- paralysis

Oriental medicine teaches that peripheral neuropathy is due to dampness moving to the limbs, where it obstructs the flow of Qi (energy) and blood within them. The treatment is twofold, to treat the underlying factor that is causing this dampness to accumulate and to directly facilitate the circulation of Qi and blood in the affected area. By improving circulation, the nerve tissues of the affected area can be nourished to repair function and reduce pain.

Peripheral neuropathy is a symptom for many different patterns of disharmony within the body. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine aims to treat each individual uniquely depending on what caused the neuropathy and how it manifests.

Do you or someone you know suffer from peripheral neuropathy? Contact us today to find out what acupuncture and Oriental medicine can do for you!

Relief for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
One of the most common job-related injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is responsible for the highest number of days lost among all work-related injuries. With more than two million visits to physicians' offices and approximately 465,000 carpal tunnel release operations each year, it is the most frequent surgery of the hand and wrist.

Acupuncture is extremely effective at treating carpal tunnel syndrome, eliminating the need for surgery or the use of anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids and recent studies suggest that acupuncture may be more effective than corticosteroids when it comes to treating carpal tunnel syndrome.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist made up of ligaments and bones. The median nerve and the tendons that connect the fingers to the muscles of the forearm pass through this tightly spaced tunnel. Carpal tunnel syndrome, also known as median nerve entrapment, occurs when swelling or irritation of the nerve or tendons in the carpal tunnel results in pressure on the median nerve. The median nerve controls sensations to the palm side of the thumb and fingers, as well as impulses to some small muscles in the hand that allow the fingers and thumb to move.

Symptoms usually start gradually, with frequent burning, tingling, or numbness in the palm of the hand and the fingers, especially the thumb, index and middle fingers. The symptoms often first appear during the night. As symptoms worsen, people might feel pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand and wrist, radiating up the arm during the day. Decreased grip strength may make it difficult to form a fist, grasp small objects, or perform other manual tasks. If not properly treated, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause irreversible nerve damage and permanent deterioration of muscle tissue.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with Acupuncture

From an Oriental medicine perspective, carpal tunnel syndrome is seen as a disruption of the flow of Qi and blood within the area and is associated with cold, dampness or wind penetrating the muscles and sinews of the wrist. In addition to reducing swelling, inflammation, and pain in the wrist, acupuncture addresses any headaches, neck pain, shoulder stiffness and sleeping problems that often accompany this condition. Your treatment may also take into account underlying conditions that contribute to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome including obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems, diabetes, and hormonal changes due to pregnancy and menopause.

If you or someone you know suffers from carpal tunnel syndrome, please call to find out more about how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help you.

Boost your brain's overall heath and enhance its day to day functioning by including these foods in a healthy well-balanced diet.

Blueberries - Well known for their role in improving motor skills and overall learning capacity, blueberries are rich in antioxidants that are great for boosting your brain and helping to reverse the effects of aging on the brain. Most berries contain fisetin and flavenoid, which are great for improving your memory and allowing you to easily recall past events.
Fish - Omega-3 rich wild salmon, tuna, and herring help brain function by providing more oxygen, allowing it to retain new information while remembering old information. It also coats neurons with good fat, allowing them to move easier through the brain. Eating one serving of fish a week can decrease your chances of getting Alzheimer’s.
Leafy Green Vegetables - Vegetables such as cabbage, kale, spinach, collards, turnip greens and others are rich in vitamins, folate, and iron, all of which are essential for memory recall and increasing cognitive activity.
Nuts/Seeds - Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, folate, vitamin E, vitamin B6 and zinc all of which allow you to think more clearly. Choose seeds and nuts rich in thiamine and magnesium, which are great for memory, cognitive function, and brain nourishment.
Whole Grains - Rich in folate, thiamine, vitamin B6, and zinc, the nutrients found in whole grains increase blood flow to the brain, improving the quality and quantity of brain function and recall.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

One of the largest nerves in the head, the trigeminal nerve is responsible for impulses of touch, pain, pressure and temperature sent to the brain from the face, jaw, and gums. Characterized by a sudden, severe, electric shock-like or stabbing pain felt on one side of the jaw or cheek, these periodic attacks of pain generally last a few seconds and may be repeated one after the other.

The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not known; however, physical nerve damage and stress can trigger painful attacks. Damage may also be the result of a biochemical change in the nerve tissue itself or an abnormal blood vessel compressing the nerve as it exits from the brain. In almost all cases, an excessive burst of nervous activity from a damaged nerve causes the painful attacks.

Acupuncture is considered a safe, adjunctive therapeutic option in patients with trigeminal neuralgia especially before invasive intervention is done.

Call today to schedule your FREE consultation!

Revitalize Your Digestive Health With Acupuncture

2011-10-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture NewsletterOctober 2011

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Revitalize Your Digestive Health With Acupuncture

More than 95 million Americans suffer from digestive disorders ranging from constipation, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome to more serious conditions such as acid reflux (GERD), ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. In fact, more than 35 million physician office visits a year are due to gastrointestinal complaints. Reports are confirming that acupuncture and Oriental medicine can offer relief from even the most complex digestive problems.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive Disorders

Evidence that Oriental medicine has been used for digestive disorders can be found in early medical literature dating back to 3 AD, where specific acupuncture points and herbal formulas for borborygmus (rumbling or gurgling in the intestines), abdominal pain and diarrhea with pain are discussed.

According to Oriental medical theory, most digestive disorders are due to disharmony in the spleen and stomach. The spleen plays a central part in the health and vitality of the body, taking a lead role in the assimilation of nutrients and maintenance of physical strength. It turns digested food from the stomach into usable nutrients and qi (energy). Many schools of thought have been formed around this organ; the premise being that the proper functioning of the"'middle" is the key to all aspects of vitality.

By taking into account a person's constitution and varied symptoms, a treatment plan is designed specifically for the individual to bring their "middle" back into harmony and optimize the proper functioning of the digestive system. A variety of techniques can be used during treatment including acupuncture, lifestyle/dietary recommendations and energetic exercises to restore digestive health.

Is your digestive system functioning as well as it could? Acupuncture and Oriental medicine are extremely effective at treating a wide array of digestive disorders. Please call us for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Acupuncture Treats Food Poisoning
Food poisoning arises from eating contaminated foods containing a variety of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses and parasites and is also known as food-borne illness, infectious diarrhea, or gastroenteritis. The most common bacteria to cause food poisoning are salmonella, staphylococcus aureus, E. coli and shigella. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can relieve symptoms, hasten recovery and strengthen the digestive system to prevent future incidents of food poisoning, avert development of chronic immune deficiencies and increase energy levels.

Food poisoning is marked by severe diarrhea, fever, cramping, abdominal pain, flu-like symptoms, vomiting and diarrhea. Most cases of food poisoning clear up on their own within a week without any medical assistance; however, it can take several months before bowel habits return to normal. Often the digestive system is severely weakened after a bout of food poisoning, making the infected person more susceptible to food poisoning in the future. A small number of persons with food poisoning develop an autoimmune disease called Reiter's syndrome. It can last for months or years and can lead to chronic arthritis.

Treatment of food poisoning is rest and hydration to prevent fluid and electrolyte loss due to vomiting and diarrhea. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can be used to relieve nausea and vomiting, hasten recovery by assisting the body to eliminate the pathogen faster, and strengthen the digestive system to prevent any re-occurrences or development of a chronic immune disorder. After acute symptoms subside, acupuncture treatments focus on strengthening the digestive system and improving energy levels to bring about a full recovery

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Acupuncture
A common disorder affecting 10 to 20 percent of adults at some point in their lives, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) was once called “spastic colon” and has a combination of symptoms that may include constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, fatigue and headaches that can be worsened by certain foods, stress and other irritants. IBS is the end result of nervous interference with the normal function of the lower digestive tract. The symptoms are variable and change over time.

While other patterns may be present, IBS is typically considered a disharmony between the liver and the spleen in Oriental medicine. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of qi and blood throughout the body. This flow can be upset by emotions or stress, causing stagnation of qi or blood. Oriental medicine views the spleen as being associated with the function of digestion and transforming food into energy (qi and blood). The spleen can be weakened by a number of factors including overeating unhealthy foods, overwork, stress, fatigue, and lack of exercise. When the spleen is weak and the liver is not moving smoothly, the liver overacts on the spleen and can manifest as symptoms of IBS. Symptoms can be managed by avoiding overeating, exercise, identifying trigger foods and reducing stress.

Do you suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Call (904) 448-0046 today to see how Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can improve your quality of life!

Four simple steps to reducing the occurrence of food poisoning are to clean, separate, cook and chill.

Clean: Wash hands, surfaces, utensils and platters often. Rinse all produce in cold running water before peeling, cutting or eating.

Separate: Keep foods that won't be cooked separate from raw meat and poultry. Don't use the same platter and utensils for raw and cooked meats and poultry.

Cook: Cook food to a safe minimum internal temperature to destroy harmful bacteria.

Chill: Refrigerate any leftovers promptly in shallow containers.

If you are ill with diarrhea or vomiting, do not prepare food for others, especially infants, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems since they are more vulnerable to infection.

Ginger for Intestinal Upset
Ginger has been found to increase the secretion of gastric juice and the production of hypochloride. This means that food is digested more quickly, creating an unfriendly environment for bacteria that could wreak havoc with your stomach and intestines.

Ginger works as well at treating the symptoms of food poisoning as it does preventing them. In fact, ginger can be used for most digestive upsets that involve nausea, vomiting, cramping, abdominal pain, indigestion or diarrhea.

Whether your digestive problem is due to eating contaminated food, stomach flu, pregnancy or motion sickness, ginger is one of the most effective agents around!

Acupuncture & OM Day- Open House 10/24/11

2011-10-04T14:27:00.000-07:00

On Point for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Day

Have you ever had an acupuncture treatment? If not, October 24 is the perfect day to experience this wonderful form of healthcare. October 24th is the national day of observance of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AOM) Day. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) is a sponsor of AOM day. NCCAOM hopes its support will raise awareness of the benefits of acupuncture and Oriental medicine encompassed in this 3,000 year old medicine.

Health Pointe Jacksonville will be honoring this day by offering FREE 20minute stress relief auricular acupuncture treatments from 2-6pm on Monday 10/24/2011. We will be providing chair massages and serving detoxification teas and healthy refreshments. Please feel free to stop by, tour the facility and ask questions. To secure a 20minute stress busting acupuncture treatment contact our office @ (904) 448-0046 or email: info@hpjax.com

What makes this year’s AOM Day celebration unique? This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the founding of NCCAOM. NCCAOM is the only organization that certifies acupuncturists and practitioners of Oriental medicine in the United States. In addition to the founding of the NCCAOM, this anniversary is a special one for several other national acupuncture and Oriental medicine organizations, all of whom joined together in 1982 to establish national standards for the practice of acupuncture. The results of this collaborative effort, which occurred over twenty-five years ago, makes AOM Day a day to celebrate the profession itself and the advancements that have taken place since its beginnings in 1982.

What changes did occur during the past 25 years? Over the past 25 years, acupuncture and Oriental medicine has become increasingly popular in the United States. The phrase “Oriental medicine” is now important because it encompasses a variety of modalities, including acupuncture, Chinese herbology and Asian bodywork therapies such as acupressure, shiatsu, and Thai medical bodywork therapy. Healthcare consumers are often surprised to discover that an estimated 36% of U.S. adults use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), according to a survey by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a component of the National Institutes of Health. As evidenced by the increased number of NCCAOM certified practitioners in the U.S over just the past five years, acupuncture has become one of the most common forms of CAM.

How does acupuncture work? Acupuncture is a medical treatment that involves the stimulation of points on the body with the insertion of thin, disposable needles. It has become much more accepted in the U.S.; however, many healthcare consumers are still not aware of this relatively painless and effective treatment so useful in treating conditions such as migraines, stress, obesity, and addiction, to name but a few. Some consumers are apprehensive about acupuncture because of a fear of being “needled”. However, unlike the needles that are used to give shots or take blood, acupuncture needles are extremely thin. Most patients report that they feel no pain. In some cases, there might be a slight pricking or tingling sensation and in areas where the body has experienced pain, this pricking or tingling sensation may be more noticeable.

The absence of pain and effectiveness of this ancient medicine has helped acupuncture and Oriental medicine become more a part of mainstream healthcare. According to Bryn Clark, Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM), former Chair of the NCCAOM Board of Commissioners who practices acupuncture in Massachusetts, several prestigious academic medical centers such as Northwestern, Georgetown, Duke, and Harvard Universities have opened up integrated medical centers in which Western medical physicians work with certified acupuncture practitioners use complementary therapies to treat patients. Every year more and more physicians are opting to combine Eastern and Western treatments for their patients’ well-being. Research from the National Institute of Health supports this movement showing that acupuncture is effective for use in pain management, osteoarthritis, postoperative or chemotherapy-related nausea, addiction, stroke rehabilitation, infertility and asthma, among others. The World Health Organization also lists acupuncture’s efficacy in relieving anxiety, panic disorders and insomnia along with forty-two other medical conditions.

Success for AOM Day will be measured by those that benefit from this time-proven medicine, not just on October 24th but on every day of the year.

Nurturing Mental and Emotional Wellness with Acupuncture

2011-09-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture Newsletter September 2011

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Nurturing Mental and Emotional Wellness with Acupuncture

At some point in life everyone deals with major upheavals or emotional distress. These events can trigger a host of unexpected feelings and behaviors from depression and panic attacks to major disruptions in sleep and eating. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can alleviate symptoms associated with mental health issues in treating the root cause of the problem by helping to rebalance the body's internal environment.

Mental health disorders are medical conditions that disrupt a person's thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others, and daily functioning which result in a diminished capacity for coping with the ordinary demands of life. The good news about mental disorders is that recovery is often possible. Affecting persons of any age, race, religion, or income mental health disorders have been found to be common and experts estimate almost a third of the population report sufficient qualifying criteria at some point in their life. Serious mental illnesses include major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and borderline personality disorder.

From an Oriental medicine perspective mental health disorders can cause a disruption in the flow of vital energy, or qi, through the body. These energetic imbalances can throw off the immune system or cause symptoms of pain, sleep disturbances, abnormal digestion, headaches, and menstrual irregularities, and, over time, more serious illnesses can develop. Acupuncture treatments can correct these imbalances and directly affect the way your body manages your mental health.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Mental Disorders

Oriental Medicine does not recognize any mental disorder as one particular syndrome. Instead, it aims to treat the specific symptoms that are unique to each individual using a variety of techniques including acupuncture, lifestyle/dietary recommendations and exercises to restore imbalances found in the body. Therefore, if 100 patients are treated with acupuncture and Oriental medicine for anxiety, each of these 100 people will receive a unique, customized treatment with different acupuncture points, and different lifestyle and diet recommendations.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine have the ability to detect energetic changes that occur in the body and relieve symptoms by restoring equilibrium. The physical and emotional symptoms that you are experiencing will help create a clear picture on which a treatment plan can be created specifically for you.

Here are just a few acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help with:

Depressive Disorders - Common symptoms of depressive disorders include: a decreased interest in most activities, insomnia, fatigue, and feeling empty and worthless. Even when depression is sub-clinical, the body's immune system is compromised and the symptoms reduce functioning and impair work performance and social relationships. Acupuncture treatments can correct these imbalances, support the immune system, and directly affect the way your body manages stress and your mental health.

Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) - a condition of the brain that makes it difficult to concentrate or control impulsive behavior ADD/ADHD does not just occur during childhood. Acupuncture can help enhance concentration, reduce fidgeting, augment mood management techniques, reduce hyperactivity and enhance concentration.

Anxiety and Stress Disorders - Anxiety comes in a wide range of manifestations, from mild worrying to more physical responses such as nausea, insomnia, shortness of breath and panic attacks. Some anxiety is a healthy response to the stress of daily life and new situations; however, anxiety that occurs randomly or excessively is a sign to take notice. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help balance both the mental and physical symptoms of anxiety and help to create harmony and spaciousness.

Mental health issues are best managed when health professionals work together to meet the unique needs of each individual. Acupuncture is an excellent addition to any treatment plan as it is used to help the body restore balance, treating the root of the disorder, while also diminishing symptoms.

If you or someone you know struggles with a mental health disorder or if you would like to know how to optimize your mental health, please call to find out more about how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can be integrated into your mental and emotional wellness plan today!

Acupuncture for Irritability and Moodiness
Everyone suffers from irritability and moodiness from time to time, but if you find that a short temper and frustration are becoming a constant issue for you, then acupuncture may be able to help.

Often irritability and moodiness are the consequence of chronic stress in your life. Over time these emotions can progress into more serious emotional conditions such as anxiety and depression as well as other health conditions such as digestive problems, trouble sleeping and the tendency to get sick more frequently.

Liver Qi Stagnation and Emotions

Emotional disorders can be associated with a number of different patterns of disharmony within Oriental medicine however, anger, irritability, and frustration are all signs that our qi (life force) is not flowing smoothly. The liver is responsible for the smooth flowing of qi (life force) throughout the body and for smoothing our emotions. When the liver’s function of moving qi is disrupted, qi can become stuck. This is referred to as liver qi stagnation.

Liver qi stagnation is one of the most common patterns of disharmony seen in today’s patients. In addition to irritability and moodiness, signs and symptoms may include: distending pain in the area below the ribs, stuffiness of the chest, sighing, abdominal distention, nausea, sour regurgitation, belching, diarrhea or constipation, feeling of a lump in the throat, irregular periods, painful periods and distention of the breasts prior to periods. Liver qi stagnation is commonly associated with PMS.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine is excellent at relieving liver qi stagnation. Treatment for irritability and moodiness associated with liver qi stagnation focuses on moving qi and supporting the liver and spleen organ systems with acupuncture, lifestyle and dietary recommendations.

If you are concerned that your emotions may be interfering with your health and wellness, please call (904) 448-0046 today to see how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help you!

When your Qi (life force) functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly. So, for optimum health, move your Qi!

Stretch
According to Oriental medicine, the liver stores blood during periods of rest and then releases it to the tendons in times of activity, maintaining tendon health and flexibility. Incorporate a morning stretch into your routine.

Eye Exercises
Although all organs have some connection to eye health the liver is connected to proper eye function. Take breaks when looking at a monitor for extended periods of time and do eye exercises.

Eat Green
Eating young plants - fresh, leafy greens, sprouts, and immature cereal grasses can improve the liver’s overall functions and aid in the movement of qi.

Do More Outdoor Activities
Outside air helps liver qi flow. If you have been feeling irritable, find an outdoor activity to smooth out that liver qi stagnation.

Acupressure Points for Moving Qi
Four Gates
A popular treatment for stress, anger, sadness, and frustration these four acupuncture points are thought to enhance the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body and have a calming and analgesic effect.

LI 4 is located on the padded area of your hand between the thumb and index finger, between the first and second metacarpal bones. Massage this point with your thumb on both hands for approximately 30 seconds.

LV 3 is located in a hollow on the top of your foot below the gap between your big toe and the next toe, between the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones. To stimulate this point, place your right heel in the juncture between the bones that attach to the large and second toes and gently knead the point for approximately thirty seconds. Then switch sides to stimulate the point on your other foot.

Baihui (Du 20) for Clarity
Massage acupuncture point, Baihui for mental clarity. Located on the top of the head midway between the ears Baihui is used to clear the mind, calm the spirit, and improve focus. Stimulate the point with your index finger for 30-45 seconds for a quick "brain boost".

Yintang for Calmness
Yintang, a point located midway between the eyebrows is sometimes referred to as "the third eye". Stimulation of Yintang is known to calm the mind, enhance one’s ability to focus, soothe emotions, promote sleep, and relieve depression.

Good Health. Good Life!

Acupuncture for Healthy Skin

2011-08-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture for Healthy Skin Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can be very effective at treating skin conditions. Treatments can provide quick relief for acute symptoms and can provide significant and lasting relief from recurrent or chronic skin conditions.
The skin reflects and reacts to imbalances within the body's internal landscape and the effects of the environment. Internal disharmonies caused by strong emotions, diet, and your constitution as well as environmental influences, such as wind, dryness, dampness, and heat can all contribute to the development of a skin disorder. To keep your skin healthy and beautiful on the outside, you must work on the inside of your body as well. Increasing the flow of energy, blood and lymph circulation improves the skin's natural healthy color.
Promotion of collagen production increases muscle tone and elasticity helping to firm the skin. Stimulating the formation of body fluids nourishes the skin and encourages it to be moister, softer, smoother and more lustrous.
General skin conditions that can be treated with acupuncture and Oriental medicine include acne, dermatitis, eczema, pruritus, psoriasis, rosacea, shingles and urticaria (hives). Oriental medicine does not recognize skin problems as one particular syndrome. Instead, it aims to treat the specific symptoms that are unique to each individual using a variety of techniques with acupuncture such as herbal medicine, bodywork, lifestyle/dietary recommendations and energetic exercises to restore imbalances found in the body. Therefore, if 10 patients are treated with Oriental medicine for eczema, each patient will receive a unique, customized treatment with different lifestyle and dietary recommendations.
If you suffer from a skin condition or would like to know how to optimize your skin health, please call to find out more about how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help you

Foods to Help You Look Your Best
Acupuncture views nutrition in a complex light, through the application of Oriental medicine wisdom to dietary habits. In short, certain foods are considered too yang, or hot to eat in excess during the warmer months, while others are prized for their yin ability to cool the body. Overall, the goal is balance between the internal yin and yang of the body.
A healthy, nutritional diet, getting good quality sleep and moderate exercise can keep your skin and physical form at it's best. Be sure to integrate these items into your diet to help keep you looking your best!
Carrots and Sweet Potatoes - Healthy skin is directly dependent on the amount of vitamin A in our diet. Vitamin A acts as an antioxidant to neutralize harmful elements in our skin, helps to prevent wrinkles, resist infection and maintain the skin's elasticity. One of the best places to get Vitamin A is vegetables that are deep orange in color.
Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries, and Plums - In a study recently published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, these four fruits weighed in with the highest "total antioxidant capacity" of any food. Antioxidants and other phytochemicals in these fruits can protect cells from damage and disintegration, thus guarding against premature aging.
Salmon, Walnuts, Olive Oil, and Flax Seed - Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet. Fish, walnuts, and flax seed oil are among the best sources for omega 3 fatty acid. Eating good-quality olive oil helps keep skin lubricated and keeps it looking and feeling healthier overall. Which olive oil is the best for your skin? Those labeled "cold pressed", "expeller processed", or "extra virgin" are the least processed forms. As a result, they contain the highest levels of antioxidative substances.
Whole Wheat Bread, Brown Rice, Turkey, Tuna and Brazil Nuts - Selenium is an antioxidant mineral responsible for tissue elasticity and healthy skin. It may play an important role in preventing skin cancer, as some recent studies are showing that skin damaged by the sun may suffer fewer consequences if selenium levels are high.
Green Tea – Green tea's ability to slow down the development of some signs of aging is attributed to its high levels of polyphenols, which have been well-documented for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Green tea may help prevent or reduce the risk of skin cancer according to a study published recently in the Archives of Dermatology, which shows that whether taken orally or applied to the skin, green tea can reduce the risk of damage from ultraviolet light and thus reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Water - Hydration plays a key role in keeping skin cells healthy. It is essential to maintaining your skin's elasticity and suppleness. Keeping cells hydrated helps cells move nutrients in and toxins out, which helps keep skin clean and clear.

Hives (urticaria) are swollen, red, bumps, patches or welts on the skin that appear suddenly. Itching is the most common symptom associated with hives, although some people report that hives cause a stinging or burning sensation. Hives can occur anywhere on the body including the hands, face, lips, tongue, throat, or ears.
A sign that the whole body is experiencing a hypersensitivity reaction a hives outbreak can occur due to a wide array of stimuli. While intolerance to certain foods, additives, intense emotions, sunlight exposure, and medications can all cause hives, in 70-75% of outbreaks the exact cause of hives remains unknown.
Whether lasting for just a few minutes, a few hours or persisting for several weeks hives are rarely a medical emergency however, in some cases they can be accompanied by shock, difficulty breathing and be life threatening. About 20% of people will experience hives (urticaria) at some point in their lives. While standard treatment for hives is directed toward relieving unpleasant symptoms with antihistamines or a corticosteroid drug many people are turning to acupuncture and Oriental medicine to address underlying imbalances that cause this condition and stop recurrent outbreaks once and for all.

Evidence that Acupuncture and herbal medicine have been used for skin disorders, such as hives, can be found in early medical literature dating back to 3 AD. Medicinal plants and stone needles were utilized to relieve and cure discomforts of the external areas of the body.
In Oriental medicine, an outbreak of hives is described as wind invading the skin and the meridians, causing itching and swelling. When the eruptions are red it is an indication that wind and heat are involved. When the eruptions are a pale pink or white, it is likely that the diagnoses will be wind-cold invading the skin. How the condition is diagnosed will determine what acupuncture points are used, what herbal medicinals are prescribed and what lifestyle/dietary recommendations are made.
Treatments are directed at addressing both the cause and the symptoms by providing immediate relief from the itching and swelling and addressing the underlying imbalances and triggers that are causing the condition.

CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION! (904) 448-0046

Qi Mail™

The Acupuncture NewsletterAugust 2011
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Qi Mail™ is an opt-in acupuncture newsletter available by subscription only. We neither use nor endorse the use of spam.

Rest, Renew and Reflect on Your Health!

2011-08-12T10:58:00.001-07:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture Newsletter
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Rest, Renew and Reflect on Your Health!

By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest. ~ Confucius

Reflection is the process in which an image or idea comes back to us, such as looking in a mirror, rethinking an event, or reviewing an idea. We have the opportunity to take a closer view and reconsider our original thinking.

The new year is a perfect opportunity to reflect and use that knowledge as a catalyst for change. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help achieve the change you seek as it assists in illness prevention, stress relief, minimizes aches and pains, improves energy and you find yourself in better balance. This calm and clarity strengthens your resolve as you start the new year with new goals.

Reflection has other connotations in acupuncture and Oriental medicine. Outer appearances reflect inner health so a well trained practitioner of acupuncture and oriental medicine will observe very different aspects of your appearance than you typically study when you look in the mirror. In acupuncture and oriental medicine, bodily observation includes looking at the face, eyes, body type, demeanor, and tongue. Two thousand years ago, when acupuncture and Oriental medicine was in its infancy, there were no x-ray machines or the very sophisticated magnetic imaging of today. These healers and diagnosticians depended on their finely tuned observational skills in order to assess their patients. Some of those early ideas seem simplistic today but many elements of diagnosis persist because outer appearances do provide clues to a person’s health.

Stick Out Your Tongue

Oriental medicine has used tongue diagnosis for thousands of years. An experienced practitioner can look at your tongue and begin to understand your internal problems but you can also be aware of information that your tongue provides. Look for changes in the color of your tongue, teeth marks, shape, and coating. These changes may indicate that something is amiss. A healthy tongue is naturally the same pink-red color as your lips. Someone who is very stressed or irritable may have a tongue with a red tip and sides. Teeth marks may indicate a deficiency or insomnia. Note any changes in the shape of your tongue. If it's too pale, puffy or red it may indicate an imbalance.

Healthy tongues have a thin white coating. If you see a thicker coating developing, you may be catching a cold or flu. If the coating appears yellowish the illness has a hotter nature and you can also expect a sore throat and yellow phlegm. If the coating is thick and white, this indicates a cold with chills and clear/white phlegm but without a sore throat. So if you see a thick coat developing take precautions, rest, sleep more, and keep warm.

Seasonal acupuncture treatments serve to nurture and nourish your kidney Qi which can greatly enhance the body's ability to thrive in times of stress and aid in healing, preventing illness and increasing vitality. Call for your appointment today and let us help you prepare for the year ahead!

Difficulties Sleeping? Resolve to Put Insomnia to Rest!
Our society puts a premium on our waking hours and has the tendency to underestimate the importance of a full-night’s sleep. Often, good sleep hygiene is an afterthought for many people. Millions of people are besieged with insomnia and look for quick fixes instead of exploring the root causes of the problem.

Evening is a time to allow our minds and bodies to turn inward to our subconscious. Excessive lighting at night, evening shift work, evening computing, video games, television and late-night eating all serve to counteract the body’s natural rhythms. It’s no wonder people have trouble sleeping. Exposure to early morning light and dusk helps to regulate sleep hormones in the body. Rather than embrace nighttime we tend to let our minds wander from one element of stress to another keeping us up for hours or perhaps an entire evening. We are then forced to approach the new day without having benefited from the regenerative powers that night time brings.

In Oriental medicine sleep occurs when the yang energy of the day folds into Yin - nighttime. Yin energy of the body is cooling and restorative. It is the time of day when our bodies turn inward and regenerate. This is the time we dream and explore the caverns of our unconscious mind. Conversely, daytime is yang, which is expansive. We expend the energy we have built up from the process of sleeping. Together, this is the cycle of yin and yang.

To apply the concept of yin and yang to your everyday life try eating your last meal at least three hours before going to bed. If you are a hot excess type, you can cool your body down by avoiding hot and spicy food and drink. Avoid alcohol, coffee, chocolate any other stimulants, especially late in the day.

Help circulate your body’s energy by working out or by gentle exercising. Build your body’s nutritive aspect by eating marrow based soups and stews, dark pigmented vegetables and fruits. Avoid overworking or over rumination as well.

Meditation is an invaluable tool to help your brain unwind. Helping the body create a sense of calm meditation can reduce stress, increase feelings of well-being, and improve overall health. It is of specific use to help one increase alertness, relaxation and reflection even in “waking” states. Meditation is best practiced during the day to help ease your sleep patterns at night.

One contributor to insomnia, stress, weakens the function of the liver, which in turn affects the health of your nerves. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine have a calming effect on the nervous system clearing obstructions in the muscle and nerve channels, assisting the flow of oxygen-enriched energy and relaxing the system. Common noted benefits include deeper breathing, improved digestive abilities, better sleeping patterns, and a general sense of well being.

Energy Renewing Ear Massage
Ear Massage is an extremely relaxing and effective therapy aimed at reducing stress, promoting wellbeing and addressing various health issues. It can be enjoyed by all and promotes a deep sense of peace and tranquility.

Ear massage triggers the release of the body’s natural painkillers, endorphins. Studies have demonstrated that ear stimulation increases levels of endorphins in both the blood and cerebrospinal fluid.

Ear acupuncture is used throughout the world to calm anxiety, manage pain, reduce substance cravings and assist in the detoxification of addictive substances.

Here is a great ear massage that you can do for yourself or your loved ones:

1. Rub in small circular motions with your thumbs inside the widest upper part inside the ears, holding them from outside with the index and middle fingers.

2. Use your index finger to massage inside the smaller crevices if your thumbs don’t fit and along the front of your ear where it attaches to the head.

3. Lastly, massage the earlobes by gently pulling them down and also making circles with your thumb and index finger.
Tips for a Restful Night

Practicing good sleep hygiene and keeping your body in sync with the rhythm of day and night can help your body cope with sleep deprivation give it an opportunity to get stronger and heal.

By implementing just a few of the suggestions you should notice a great improvement in your sleep and how you function in the daylight hours.

• Maintain a routine sleep schedule
• Make your bedroom a sanctuary. Keep it dark, cool, and quiet
• Establish a sense of safety with your surroundings
• Reduce nicotine, caffeine and alcohol use
• Avoid rigorous exercise 3-5 hours prior to bedtime
• Avoid heavy meals near bedtime
• Position clock away from the bed
• Limit television and computer use to early evening

If you or someone you know has insomnia or are having difficulties getting a restful sleep call for your appointment today (904) 448-0046!

Women's Health and Acupuncture

2011-05-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™ -The Acupuncture Newsletter May 2011

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Women's Health Concerns and How Acupuncture Can Help

The biggest threats to women's health are often preventable. Oriental medicine has always addressed the special needs of women throughout their lives and many health issues women face respond extremely well to acupuncture treatments. Taking small steps to improve your health can make a difference.

The top health concerns affecting women and how acupuncture can help are:

Cardiovascular Disease

As the number one threat to women's health, cardiovascular disease is not just a man's disease. In women, the condition is responsible for about 29% of deaths, reports the CDC. Although more men die of heart disease than women, females tend to be under diagnosed, often to the point that it's too late to help them once the condition is discovered. By integrating acupuncture and Oriental medicine into your heart healthy lifestyle, you can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease by as much as eighty percent.

Steps to prevention include managing high blood pressure and cholesterol, quitting smoking, eating healthy, maintaining a healthy weight, physical activity, reducing stress and improved sleep - all of which can be helped with acupuncture and Oriental medicine. Acupuncture has been found to be particularly helpful in lowering blood pressure. By applying acupuncture needles at specific sites along the wrist, inside the forearm or in the leg, researchers have been able to stimulate the release of opiods, which decreases the heart's activity and its need for oxygen. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure.

Cancer

There have been many advances in the early detection and treatment of cancer. While the standard medical care for cancer is effective, the treatments are aggressive and cause numerous unwanted side effects as well as a lowered immune system. The three most common cancers among women are breast, lung and colorectal cancer. While breast cancer is the most common cancer in women it is second in the leading cause of cancer death. Early detection screenings and recommended self examinations should be taken seriously.

Acupuncture has received much attention as an adjunctive therapy in cancer treatments for its use in pain relief, reducing side effects, accelerating recovery and improving overall quality of life.

From a preventive approach Oriental medicine works to restore imbalances in the system with a variety of treatment modalities including acupuncture, herbal therapy, tui na, qi gong in addition to food, exercise and lifestyle suggestions. Seasonal acupuncture treatments just four times a year serve to tonify the inner organ systems and correct minor annoyances before they become serious problems.

Osteoporosis

Characterized by a decrease in bone mass and an increased likelihood of fractures osteoporosis is not simply a calcium deficiency. As a complex living tissue, bone is made of many different components and is influenced by many variables including the body's use of calcium from the bone to balance pH levels in the blood. Osteoporosis threatens 44 million Americans, of which 68% are women, reports the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

"Osteoporosis is largely preventable," says Mark. "The behaviors that women develop in their childhood, in their adolescence, and in their early adult years really play a significant role in the development of the disease." That's because bodies build up most of bone mass until age 30. Then new bone stops forming and the focus switches to the maintenance of old bone.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine coupled with a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise, have much to offer in improving the quality of life for those who suffer from bone and joint problems.

Depression

Depressive disorders affect 10%-25% of women at some point in their lives. The body’s immune system is compromised and symptoms reduce functioning, impair work performance and social relationships. Common symptoms of depressive disorders include: a decreased interest in most activities, insomnia, fatigue, and feeling empty and worthless. At its worst, hopelessness sets in and suicide becomes a desperate option for approximately 15% of people who suffer from severe depressive disorders.

Oriental medicine does not view people as a collection of segmented parts to be treated independently but rather addresses the link between the body, spirit and mind. The goal of Oriental medicine is to bring all the human systems into a healthy balance, insuring that both the mind and body feel well and when used in conjunction with psychotherapy acupuncture has a positive and holistic effect on depressed patients. If you suffer from depression, consider acupuncture therapy in conjunction with your treatment plan to regain peace of mind, regulate your immune system and stay healthy.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the immune system attacks the body and destroys or alters tissues. There are more than 80 serious chronic illnesses in this category, including lupus, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes.

According to the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA), about 75% of autoimmune diseases occur in women. Individually, each disease appears uncommon with the exception of diabetes, thyroid disease, and lupus however as a group, the disorders make up the fourth-largest cause of disability among American women.

Due to the complexity of treating autoimmune disorders, integrative medicine solutions have received much attention as successful therapies in their treatment. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine are specifically noted for use in pain relief, regulating the immune system, managing symptoms and improving overall quality of life.

Menopause and Gynecological Health

Gynecological conditions including Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), fibroids, endometriosis, and infertility along with menopause are some of the most successfully treated problems by acupuncture and Oriental medicine. Oriental medicine has long recognized that health and vitality can be sustained over a woman's lifetime by restoring balance within the body and supporting the natural production of essential hormones.

Menopause is a transitional period marking the cessation of ovulation in a woman's body. Symptoms vary from mild to severe, and are brought on as our bodies try to adapt to decreasing amounts of estrogen. Symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, fatigue, mood swings, memory loss, dryness, headaches, joint pain, and weight gain. Menopause patients are encouraged to maintain a healthy weight, stabilize blood sugar, and eliminate stress, tension and anxiety or learn new techniques to cope with them to diminish the effects they have.

Oriental medicine does not recognize menopause as one particular syndrome and aims to treat the specific symptoms that are unique to each individual using a variety of techniques such as acupuncture, herbs, bodywork, lifestyle/dietary recommendations and energetic exercises to restore imbalances found in the body. Therefore, if 10 women are treated each will receive a unique, customized treatment with different acupuncture points, different herbs and different lifestyle and diet recommendations.

With support from Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine along with small changes in lifestyle and diet, menopause can be a time of a revival of vital energy and an opportunity for personal growth

To learn more about how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can improve your health and well being call for a consultation today! (904) 448-0046 or visit: http://www.hpjax.com/

Heart Healthy Foods:

Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables such as kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cabbage are a gold mine of antioxidants and other heart-saving phytochemicals.

Fish
Fatty fish such as salmon and anchovies are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids that will help your heart maintain a steady rhythm. Having even one fish serving a week could reduce your risk of death from a heart attack by fifty two percent.

Flaxseed
Flaxseed is one of the most potent sources of heart health-promoting omega-3 fats. Studies indicate that adding flaxseed to your diet can reduce the development of heart disease by forty six percent while helping keep red blood cells from clumping together and forming clots that can block arteries. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp flaxseed a day on your cereal or salad.

Fruit
Oranges contain folic acid that helps lower levels of homocysteine, a heart attack risk factor. Grapes are loaded with flavonoids and resveratrol, both potent antioxidants that may discourage red blood cells from clumping together and forming an artery-blocking clot. Pomegranate juice is chock-full of potassium and polyphenols, which promote heart health and have been shown to help lower cholesterol.

Garlic
Just one clove a day, or 300 mg three times daily, reduces the risk of heart attack at least three ways: It discourages red blood cells from sticking together and blocking your arteries, it reduces arterial damage, and it discourages cholesterol from lining the arteries and making them so narrow that blockages are likely.

Green Tea
Green tea contains several powerful antioxidants that reduce bad cholesterol and boost good cholesterol, improving an individuals overall cholesterol levels. Drinking green tea also seems to enhance cardiovascular health by improving the consistency of platelets in the blood and may even lower blood pressure.

Nuts
Studies have found that those who eat more than 5 oz of nuts a week are one-third less likely to have either heart disease or a heart attack. Just don't overdo it as nuts can pile on the pounds.

Red Wine
Scientific studies overwhelmingly show that a daily glass of wine can reduce your risk of a heart attack. Both plant compounds called saponins and antioxidants in the 'fruit of the vine' work to protect arteries. Researchers have found that red is much more effective than white for improving heart health.

Revitalize Your Health with Acupuncture and Nutrition

2011-05-04T10:59:00.000-07:00

The Acupuncture Newsletter April 2011
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Revitalize Your Health with Acupuncture and Nutrition

Preventive medicine is defined as the part of medicine engaged with preventing disease rather than curing it. An integral part of preventative medicine, nutrition is considered the first line of defense in acupuncture and Oriental medicine as it provides the energy needed for the body to function. Good nutrition not only provides energy, it also provides the basic building blocks, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidents that keep the body healthy and vibrant.

A nutritional imbalance in foods consumed contributes to an imbalance in overall health. Eating an unnatural and restrictive diet can lead to yo-yo dieting and drastic ups and downs in body weight. Improper diet practises can cause malnutrition, organ damage, slow metabolic rate and other imbalances within the body. Biochemical and energetic imbalances may present themselves as pain, sleep disturbances, mood changes, abnormal digestion, headaches and menstrual irregularities.

Through the process of evaluating subtle physical signs as well as the emotional condition of a person, practitioners of acupuncture and Oriental medicine can detect health problems in their earliest stages, before a grave illness develops. Once the imbalance has been determined, a customized program can be created with a variety of treatment modalities including acupuncture, herbal therapy, tui na, qi gong in addition to food, exercise and lifestlye suggestions

Seasonal acupuncture treatments just four times a year serve to tonify the inner organ systems and correct minor annoyances before they become serious problems.

Call our office today to see how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can revitalize your health! (904) 448-0046 or visit: www.hpjax.com for new patient specials!

Acupuncture for Weight Loss

In Oriental medicine the root of excess weight is an imbalance within the body caused by malfunctioning of the spleen and liver organ systems. Acupuncture points, foods and herbs selected to assist with weight loss directly influence the Qi of the spleen and liver systems to treat the imbalances causing the weight gain.

The spleen is responsible for the proper functioning of the digestive system, ensuring that the food we eat is transformed into Qi, the vital substance of life. Disharmony of the spleen will have symptoms such as fatigue, slow metabolism, water retention, loose stool, and feeling of heaviness.

The livers job is to keep the flow of your bodys Qi, blood and emotions running smoothly. Our modern, fast-paced lifestyle and chronic stress can negatively impact the livers ability to function properly and smoothly, which, in turn, can cause the spleen and the whole digestive system to function poorly and decrease your metabolism. Liver disharmony can also cause some of the triggers that lead to cravings and compulsive eating.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine has been shown to have an effect on the functioning of the nervous, endocrine and digestive systems, food cravings, and metabolism. These functions all help energize the body, maximize the absorption of nutrients, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress the appetite, and reduce anxiety.

A Total Health Program

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine address the issues of over-eating and low metabolism with effective tools to control appetite and increase energy. Energetic imbalances are corrected and the digestive and elimination processes are improved so that there is a physical shift in the body to naturally have more energy and desire less food. By addressing both the physiological and psychological aspects of weight loss acupuncture and Oriental medicine provide a comprehensive therapy for weight issues that promotes better digestion, smooths emotions, reduces appetite, improves metabolism, and eliminates food cravings.

Each treatment is catered to the needs of the individual patient. Acupuncture points on the body are chosen for overall well being with the objective of increasing circulation of the blood and Qi (stimulating the metabolism) and calming the nervous system. Treatments can include a combination of auricular (ear) and body acupuncture, ear tacks or pellets to leave on in-between treatments, herbs and supplements, abdominal massage, breathing exercises, and food and lifestyle recommendations.

In addition to treating the root of the imbalance within the body, different acupuncture points may be chosen for each treatment as different symptoms arise. For instance, if you are experiencing a desire to overeat related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) one week, then that can be addressed at that weeks appointment.

The herbs and foods that are chosen during a weight loss treatment are for promoting healthy digestion, energizing the body, augmenting Qi, and improve elimination of water, toxins, and waste products. Most patients report a marked decline in appetite and cravings with acupuncture alone but herbs, healing foods, and exercises can definitely enhance the efficacy of the treatments.

Come in for a consultation to see how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can assist you with your weight management goals and help you to live a long, healthy life!

One of the many ways that walking can promote health and wellness is by putting gentle pressure on Yongquan (Bubbling Spring), an acupuncture point on the sole of the foot.

In Oriental health theory, this is the starting point of the Kidney meridian and stimulation of this energizing point can promote clarity of the mind and stabilize emotions.

Yongquan is located in the depression on the sole of the foot at the junction of the anterior third and the posterior two thirds of the sole.

The acupuncture point, Yongquan, has been found to benefit high blood pressure, stress, insomnia, headaches, sexual potency, and kidney function.

To Stimulate Yongquan:

While Walking:
* Let your heel tap the ground gently
* Feel your weight transfer fully to the ball and toes of your foot.
* Focus on breathing into your lower abdomen
* Keep your shoulders relaxed and allow your arms to swing freely

By Tapping:
Use your fists to strike your Yongquan about 100 times on each foot.

By Rolling:
Gently roll a tennis ball under your foot while relaxing on the couch.

Looking for a Healthy Treat?

Blueberry-Lemon Sorbet
A healthy antioxidant rich treat at only 77 calories per 1/2 cup serving.

3 cups blueberries
1/2 cup water
2 T honey
1 t lemon zest
2 T fresh lemon juice
1/8 t salt

Place all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth.
Pour into a freezer safe container.
Freeze 1 hour or until hard.
Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Qi Mail™ is an opt-in acupuncture newsletter available by subscription only.

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine for Fibromyalgia Syndrome

2011-05-03T07:35:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture Newsletter March 2011
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine for Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) affects an estimated 2 percent of the population. Research shows that up to 90 percent of people with fibromyalgia have turned to complementary and alternative medicine to manage their symptoms. Acupuncture, in particular, has become a popular treatment choice and has shown to be an effective treatment for fibromyalgia.

What is Fibromyalgia Syndrome?

Fibromyalgia is a medically unexplained syndrome characterized by chronic widespread pain, a heightened and painful response to pressure, insomnia, fatigue, and depression. While not all affected persons experience all associated symptoms, the following symptoms commonly occur together:

chronic pain
debilitating fatigue
difficulty sleeping
anxiety
depression
joint stiffness
chronic headaches
dryness in mouth, nose, and eyes
hypersensitivity
inability to concentrate (called "fibro fog")
incontinence
irritable bowel syndrome
numbness, tingling or poor circulation in the hands and feet
painful menstrual cramps
restless legs syndrome

Fibromyalgia is diagnosed when there is a history of widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for a minimum duration of three months and pain when pressure is applied to at least 11 of 18 designated tender points on the body. On its own fibromyalgia does not result in any physical damage to the body or its tissues and there are no laboratory tests which can confirm this diagnosis.

Symptoms often begin after a physical or emotional trauma, but in many cases there appears to be no triggering event. Women are more prone to develop the disorder than are men, and the risk of fibromyalgia increases with age.

An Oriental Medicine Perspective

The Oriental medicine theory of pain is expressed in this famous Chinese saying: "Bu tong ze tong, tong ze bu tong" which means "free flow: no pain, no free flow: pain."

Pain is seen as a disruption of the flow of Qi within the body. The disruption of Qi that results in fibromyalgia is usually associated with disharmonies of the Liver, Spleen, Kidney and Heart Systems.

The Acupuncture Treatment

Oriental Medicine does not recognize fibromyalgia as one particular disease pattern. Instead, it aims to treat the specific symptoms that are unique to each individual relevant to their constitution, emotional state, intensity and location of their pain, digestive health, sleeping patterns and an array of other signs and symptoms. Therefore, if 10 people are treated with Oriental medicine for fibromyalgia, each of these 10 people will receive a unique, customized treatment with different acupuncture points, different herbs and different lifestyle and dietary recommendations.

Because symptoms of fibromyalgia vary greatly from one person to another, a wide array of traditional and alternative treatments have been shown to be the most effective way of treating this difficult syndrome. A treatment program may include a combination of psychological or behavioral therapies, medications, exercise, acupuncture, herbal medicine and bodywork.

If you have fibromyalgia, acupuncture and Oriental medicine may be what youve been looking for to ease your symptoms and reclaim your health and vitality. Please call for a consultation today.

Alleviate Your Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Although fibromyalgia is a disorder considered disabling by many due to chronic widespread pain and fatigue there are some things you can do to alleviate the symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.

Learn and Practice Stress Reduction Techniques
Chronic stress can lead to fatigue, depression, a weakened immune system, and a host of serious physical and psychological ailments. When under stress your muscles contract and tense affecting nerves, blood vessels, organs, skin and bones. Chronically tense muscles can result in a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and disorders including muscle spasms and pain. While it isn't always possible to remove the external forces causing stress the ability to effectively deal with stress is a choice. Take time for yourself to cultivate the energy you need to handle your stress more skillfully and effectively.

Eat a Well Balanced Diet
Managing your diet may seem time-consuming but the benefits it offers make it worthwhile. Many fibromyalgia sufferers find relief through a properly managed diet. A list of basic nutrients to combat nerve sensitivities, improve cognition, boost the immune system, and reduce swelling is included in this newsletter.

Exercise
While even basic movements may be painful exercise helps restore strength and endurance. Tai Chi, Qi Gong or Yoga are great for easy stretches, careful strengthening, deep breathing, along with relaxation techniques. The gentle stretching will clear tension that builds when muscles tighten and tense and improve overall circulation. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

Meditate
The practice of meditation is a proven stress reducer that helps the body create a sense of calm and a continuing sense of well being. While 15 minutes is recommended, even 5 or 10 minutes can have a powerful effect on your day.

Restorative Sleep
Get at least 8 hours of restorative sleep. Maintain a routine sleep schedule and make your bedroom a sanctuary from every day stress. Practicing good sleep hygiene will give your body an opportunity to get stronger and heal.

The National Fibromyalgia Association recommends a balanced diet containing nutrient dense foods free of artificial additives and sweeteners to help your body fight fibromyalgia syndrome.

Incorporate these nutrient rich foods in your next meal:

B-Complex
Found in whole grains, beans, nuts, chicken, fish and eggs; B complex vitamins directly influence the nervous system's proper functioning and combat nerve problems such as tingling and tenderness.

Magnesium
Found in nuts, grains, beans, fish, meat and dark green vegetables magnesium is needed for muscle flexibility and bone, protein and fatty acid formation. Magnesium is also integral in making new cells, relaxing muscles, clotting blood and activating B vitamins.

Omega 3
Directly affecting cellular function this fatty acid found in fish minimizes nerve sensitivity and improves cognition.

Vitamin C
Helps combat stress, builds the immune system, and reduces swelling. Vitamin C is found in a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables including citrus fruits, green vegetables, tomatoes, and berries.

Water
Increases circulation of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body and helps to eliminate waste

Meditation: Mindful Being
The practice of meditation is a proven stress reducer that can help you tame your mind and overcome anxieties, agitation, and habitual thought patterns.

To Meditate:

Create a quiet, relaxing environment sitting upright in a chair with your feet firmly planted on the ground, allowing for free and easy breathing.

Relax your shoulders and gently place your hands on your knees or in your lap. Tuck your chin in slightly and keep your eyes half open, gaze softly focused downward about four to six feet in front, your mouth slightly open.

Observe your breath. Don't accentuate or alter the way you breathe, just let your attention rest on the flow of your breath.

Allow the "chattering" in your mind to gradually fade away. If distracted by a thought, gently refocus on your breathing.

Focus on your breathing for 10 or 15 minutes. Stay relaxed, yet awake and attentive.

Call to see how we can help alleviate your sypmtoms and discomfort today!
(904) 448-0046

*Or visit www.hpjax.com for new patient specials

Qi Mail™ is an opt-in acupuncture newsletter available by subscription only. We neither use nor endorse the use of spam. You are welcome to forward Qi Mail™ to friends and colleagues at any time.

Want a Baby? Acupuncture may Benefit Fertility

2011-04-12T15:14:00.000-07:00

Want a Baby? Acupuncture may Benefit Fertility

Acupuncture Patient Testimonial "Tina"

2011-04-12T14:26:00.001-07:00

I am 41 year old, female who has been seeing Dr. Miller for about one year now. After listening to my husband voice his concerns for my thinning hair I finally sought help. I was in denial about losing my hair for several years and after about 3 months of being treated by Dr. Miller I started to notice little hairs growing and a difference in the thickness of my hair. My hair has never been thick but in my youth it had been much fuller. I now have that feeling all over again, running my fingers through my hair and enjoying the fullness I have again. I also no longer have the shedding hair lying in the shower drain nor do I have a need to camouflage the thin spots. This treatment has increased my self confidence and I feel great about myself and the way I look as a result. I am so thankful to Acupuncture and Dr. Miller.

Tina Willis , Jacksonville, FL

Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia Syndrome

2011-03-29T08:37:00.001-07:00

Qi Mail™

The Acupuncture Newsletter

March 2011

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT

Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC 3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305

Jacksonville, FL 32216 904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine for Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) affects an estimated 2 percent of the population. Research shows that up to 90 percent of people with fibromyalgia have turned to complementary and alternative medicine to manage their symptoms.

Acupuncture, in particular, has become a popular treatment choice and has shown to be an effective treatment for fibromyalgia.

What is Fibromyalgia Syndrome?

Fibromyalgia is a medically unexplained syndrome characterized by chronic widespread pain, a heightened and painful response to pressure, insomnia, fatigue, and depression. While not all affected persons experience all associated symptoms, the following symptoms commonly occur together:

• chronic pain • debilitating fatigue

• difficulty sleeping

• anxiety

• depression

• joint stiffness

• chronic headaches

• dryness in mouth, nose, and eyes

• hypersensitivity

• inability to concentrate (called "fibro fog")

• incontinence

• irritable bowel syndrome

• numbness, tingling or poor circulation in the hands and feet

• painful menstrual cramps

• restless legs syndrome

Fibromyalgia is diagnosed when there is a history of widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for a minimum duration of three months and pain when pressure is applied to at least 11 of 18 designated tender points on the body. On its own fibromyalgia does not result in any physical damage to the body or its tissues and there are no laboratory tests which can confirm this diagnosis. Symptoms often begin after a physical or emotional trauma, but in many cases there appears to be no triggering event. Women are more prone to develop the disorder than are men, and the risk of fibromyalgia increases with age. An Oriental Medicine Perspective The Oriental medicine theory of pain is expressed in this famous Chinese saying: "Bu tong ze tong, tong ze bu tong" which means "free flow: no pain, no free flow: pain." Pain is seen as a disruption of the flow of Qi within the body. The disruption of Qi that results in fibromyalgia is usually associated with disharmonies of the Liver, Spleen, Kidney and Heart Systems.

The Acupuncture Treatment Oriental Medicine does not recognize fibromyalgia as one particular disease pattern. Instead, it aims to treat the specific symptoms that are unique to each individual relevant to their constitution, emotional state, intensity and location of their pain, digestive health, sleeping patterns and an array of other signs and symptoms. Therefore, if 10 people are treated with Oriental medicine for fibromyalgia, each of these 10 people will receive a unique, customized treatment with different acupuncture points, different herbs and different lifestyle and dietary recommendations.

Because symptoms of fibromyalgia vary greatly from one person to another, a wide array of traditional and alternative treatments have been shown to be the most effective way of treating this difficult syndrome. A treatment program may include a combination of psychological or behavioral therapies, medications, exercise, acupuncture, herbal medicine and bodywork. If you have fibromyalgia, acupuncture and Oriental medicine may be what you’ve been looking for to ease your symptoms and reclaim your health and vitality.

Please call for a consultation today.

Alleviate Your Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Although fibromyalgia is a disorder considered disabling by many due to chronic widespread pain and fatigue there are some things you can do to alleviate the symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.

Learn and Practice Stress Reduction Techniques

Chronic stress can lead to fatigue, depression, a weakened immune system, and a host of serious physical and psychological ailments. When under stress your muscles contract and tense affecting nerves, blood vessels, organs, skin and bones. Chronically tense muscles can result in a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and disorders including muscle spasms and pain. While it isn't always possible to remove the external forces causing stress the ability to effectively deal with stress is a choice.

Take time for yourself to cultivate the energy you need to handle your stress more skillfully and effectively.

Eat a Well Balanced Diet: Managing your diet may seem time-consuming but the benefits it offers make it worthwhile. Many fibromyalgia sufferers find relief through a properly managed diet. A list of basic nutrients to combat nerve sensitivities, improve cognition, boost the immune system, and reduce swelling is included in this newsletter.

Exercise :While even basic movements may be painful exercise helps restore strength and endurance. Tai Chi, Qi Gong or Yoga are great for easy stretches, careful strengthening, deep breathing, along with relaxation techniques. The gentle stretching will clear tension that builds when muscles tighten and tense and improve overall circulation. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

Meditate: The practice of meditation is a proven stress reducer that helps the body create a sense of calm and a continuing sense of well being. While 15 minutes is recommended, even 5 or 10 minutes can have a powerful effect on your day.

Restorative Sleep: Get at least 8 hours of restorative sleep. Maintain a routine sleep schedule and make your bedroom a sanctuary from every day stress. Practicing good sleep hygiene will give your body an opportunity to get stronger and heal.

In This Issue Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine for Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Mindful Being Fight Fibromyalgia with Nutrient Dense Foods The National Fibromyalgia Association recommends a balanced diet containing nutrient dense foods free of artificial additives and sweeteners to help your body fight fibromyalgia syndrome. Incorporate these nutrient rich foods in your next meal. B-Complex Found in whole grains, beans, nuts, chicken, fish and eggs; B complex vitamins directly influence the nervous system's proper functioning and combat nerve problems such as tingling and tenderness. Magnesium Found in nuts, grains, beans, fish, meat and dark green vegetables magnesium is needed for muscle flexibility and bone, protein and fatty acid formation. Magnesium is also integral in making new cells, relaxing muscles, clotting blood and activating B vitamins. Omega 3 Directly affecting cellular function this fatty acid found in fish minimizes nerve sensitivity and improves cognition. Vitamin C Helps combat stress, builds the immune system, and reduces swelling. Vitamin C is found in a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables including citrus fruits, green vegetables, tomatoes, and berries. Water Increases circulation of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body and helps to eliminate waste

Meditation: Mindful Being The practice of meditation is a proven stress reducer that can help you tame your mind and overcome anxieties, agitation, and habitual thought patterns. To Meditate: Create a quiet, relaxing environment sitting upright in a chair with your feet firmly planted on the ground, allowing for free and easy breathing. Relax your shoulders and gently place your hands on your knees or in your lap. Tuck your chin in slightly and keep your eyes half open, gaze softly focused downward about four to six feet in front, your mouth slightly open. Observe your breath. Don't accentuate or alter the way you breathe, just let your attention rest on the flow of your breath. Allow the "chattering" in your mind to gradually fade away. If distracted by a thought, gently refocus on your breathing. Focus on your breathing for 10 or 15 minutes. Stay relaxed, yet awake and attentive.

Please call for an evaluation today: (904) 448-0046, or visit www.hpjax.com for more information.

Acupuncture and Endocrine Health

2011-02-15T11:55:00.000-08:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture Newsletter February 2011
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Enhance Your Endocrine Health with Acupuncture

The endocrine system is responsible for hormonal functions in the body and produces thirty distinct hormones each of which has a very specific job to do. This system controls your physical growth, mood, hormone output, reproduction, mental functionality, and immune system. When not working properly you become more susceptible to disease and your ability to fight off infection is weakened. Endocrine glands and their functioning impacts every area of your health.

The keystone of acupuncture and Oriental medicine has always been awakening the body's natural intelligence to heal itself and restore balance to the system of energy pathways (called "meridians") that crisscross the body. If the meridians within your body have become depleted you can suffer from tiredness, infertility, weight gain, depression, digestive problems, hair loss, arthritis, and feeling chilled no matter the temperature.

What are the endocrine glands and what do they do?

The major endocrine glands include the adrenals, pancreas, pineal, pituitary, reproductive and thyroid glands.

Adrenals - Adrenal glands regulate the body's response to stress and are made of two parts, each of which secretes a separate set of hormones. The outer part produces corticosteroid hormones that regulate the balance of salt and water, stress response, metabolism, immune function, and sexual development and function. The inner part secretes adrenaline hormones that increase blood pressure and heart rate in response to stress. Over time chronic elevated stress levels can lead to weight gain, decreased resistance to infections, fatigue, muscle aches and low blood sugar.

Pancreas - The pancreas produces insulin and glucagon-two hormones that work together to supply the body`s cells with a constant supply of energy in the form of glucose.

Pineal - The pineal gland is also known as the epiphysis cerebri, epiphysis or the "third eye". It produces the serotonin derivative melatonin, a hormone that affects the modulation of wake/sleep patterns and seasonal functions.

Hypothalamus /Pituitary - A collection of specialized cells that provide the primary link between the endocrine and central nervous systems. Nerve cells and hormones signal the pituitary gland to secrete or suppress the release of various hormone messages to the other glands. The pituitary gland is also responsible for secreting growth hormones.

Reproductive - These glands secrete hormones that control the development of male and female characteristics. In males these glands secrete androgen hormones, most importantly testosterone. In females they produce estrogen, progesterone, eggs and are involved in reproductive functions.

Thyroid - Thyroid hormones control the growth, temperature and function of every cell in the body. The gland acts as the metabolic engine of the body - if it secretes too little hormone the body slows and dies; if it secretes too much the body burns out and dies.

When treating a suspected endocrine condition with acupuncture and Oriental medicine, the acupuncturist seeks the root cause of the patient's imbalance. The endocrine system is closely tied to the internal balance of the Yin energy and the Yang energy. Imagine that the Yang energy is like gasoline that fuels a car, and the Yin energy is the coolant for the car's engine. Without the coolant, the engine overheats and begins to burn out. Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine work to make sure the Yin and Yang are equal within the body restoring your essential internal balance. The root of the body's energy in Oriental medicine is the Kidney meridian. Treatment used to strengthen the Kidney Meridian also restores nourishment to your endocrine glands.

Acupuncture can be used to restore hormonal balance, regulate energy levels, smooth emotions and help manage sleep and menstrual problems. Treatments take all symptoms into account and are aimed at balancing the energy in your body, optimizing your health, restoring immune function and balancing the production and release of hormones through a variety of approaches ranging from acupuncture and herbal remedies to lifestyle changes and special exercises. Many patients benefit from an integrated Eastern and Western medical approach to endocrine health. The strong point of Western medicine is intervention in life-threatening illness, whereas the strong point of Eastern medicine is increased quality of life. Therefore it is optimal to have both Eastern and Western medicine options available for the most comprehensive care.

A healthy endocrine system that continues to secrete adequate amounts of hormones will slow the aging process and keep you vibrant and healthy as you age.

Come in for a consultation to see how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can assist you with your endocrine health and help you to live a long, healthy life. Call our office (904) 448-0046 to schedule your appointment today!

Cultivate Optimal Endocrine Health
The endocrine system provides regulation of the body through hormonal secretions. Cultivating your endocrine health combined with proper nutrition and diet can boost energy, improve appetite, reduce insomnia, relieve depression symptoms, improve circulation, relieve muscle aches and assist in recovering from endocrine disorders. One of the easiest ways to look after your endocrine system health is to eat nutritious meals and have a well balanced diet.

A few basic steps you can take to improve your endocrine health are:

Eat Slowly - Don't rush through your meals. Allow your body to properly digest food reduces after-meal fatigue, boosts your immune system, and enables your endocrine system to properly process nutritional intake.

Exercise - Regular exercise boosts the immune system, improves cardiovascular health, muscle mass, and prevents bone loss. Stress reducing exercises such as yoga, qigong, or tai chi can also be beneficial.

Manage Your Stress - Another important part of maintaining a healthy endocrine system is stress management. Having a lot of stress in your life can cause the overproduction of hormones that can lead to the failure or malfunction of many endocrine organs. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine offers many tools and techniques that can be integrated into your life to keep stress in check and allow you to enjoy a more peaceful life.

Rest - Take a day out of the week for rest and rejuvenation allowing your mind and body recovery time. You will be more productive the rest of the week.

Sleep - Allow six to eight hours of sleep per night in order to reduce stress and keep hormones balanced. The combination of stress and a lack of sleep may cause some of the glands to malfunction. If you are experiencing difficulties sleeping acupuncture has shown great success treating a wide array of sleep problems without any of the side effects of prescription or over-the-counter sleep aids.

5 Nutrients to support Endocrine Health

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein are part of any healthy diet. To directly affect your endocrine system, make sure your diet includes these foods.

Fish - Fish provides your body with Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9 oils. These oils are fats that directly affect cognitive function, cellular function and kidney function, all the things under the control of the endocrine system. Eating fish twice a week will aid in keeping a balanced endocrine system.

Garlic - Garlic boosts your immunity, increasing your ability to fight off infection. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels. One or two cloves of garlic a day is recommended. Include it in your cooking!

Calcium - Calcium keeps nerves healthy and ensures their ability to communicate effectively. Milk, cottage cheese, cheese, leafy greens, dried beans and yogurt are all rich in calcium.

Vitamin B and B Complex - Directly influences the nervous system's proper functioning and health and one's physical and mental performance concerning the nervous system. Found in chicken, fish, eggs, whole grains, beans and nuts.

Vitamin C - Adrenal glands have a very high content of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). This vitamin helps stimulate adrenal glands into producing more of the disease fighting hormone cortin. A continued stressful environment depletes vitamin C reserves and increases the tendency for infection and disease. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, melons, apricots, strawberries, berries, green vegetables, sweet peppers, and particularly tomatoes

Massage Taixi When Fatigued
Taixi, or Kidney 3, is the source point of the Kidney meridian and an excellent point to massage yourself whenever feeling fatigued.

To locate Taixi first locate the medial malleolus, that bone on the inner ankle. Then, locate the Achilles tendon that runs down the back of the ankle. Directly between them you will find the tender area when you press.

Massage the area on your ankle between the bone of inner malleolus and the Achilles tendon.

Qi Mail™ is an opt-in acupuncture newsletter available by subscription only. We neither use nor endorse the use of spam. You are welcome to forward Qi Mail™ to friends and colleagues at any time. You can cancel your subscription at any time by clicking the link at the bottom of this email.

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Acupuncture, the Natural Cold and Flu Remedy

2010-11-29T10:30:00.001-08:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture Newsletter November 2010

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Acupuncture, the Natural Cold and Flu Remedy

This year there will be 1 billion colds and 95 million cases of the flu in the United States alone. While the misery of cold and flu season might be inevitable, one thing is changing: where we look for relief.

Acupuncture to Get Better Faster - If you have already come down with a cold or the flu, acupuncture treatments can help relieve symptoms you are currently experiencing including chills, fever, body aches, runny nose, congestion, sore throat and cough. While bringing some immediate relief, treatments will reduce the incidence of an upper respiratory tract infection and shorten the length of the illness.

Acupuncture for Prevention - Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can prevent colds and flu by strengthening the immune system with just a few needles inserted into key points along the body's energy pathways.

In Oriental Medicine, disease prevention begins with a protective layer around the exterior of the body called wei qi or defensive energy. There are acupuncture points known for strengthening the circulation of blood and energy and for consolidating the outer defense layers of the skin and muscle (Wei Qi) so that germs and viruses cannot enter through them.

If you catch colds easily, have low energy and require a long time recuperating from an illness your wei qi may be deficient.

Acupuncture Point: Du 14

One particularly important point to attend to is Du 14. Located below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebrae, approximately where the collar of a T-shirt sits on the neck.

Du 14 activates the circulation of blood and Qi to strengthen the outer defense layers of the skin and muscle (wei qi) so that germs and viruses cannot enter through them.

This point is often used to ward off as well as shorten the duration colds and flu.

Seasonal acupuncture treatments just four times a year also serve to tonify the inner organ systems and can correct minor annoyances before they become serious problems. Call us to see how we can help you stay healthy this season!

Staying Healthy
Seasonal changes affect the body's environment. With wind, rain and snow comes the colds, flus and the aches and pains that accompany them – Good lifestyle and hygiene habits are proven to reduce your risk of getting sick.

Wash Your Hands– Studies have shown that one of the main reasons that we catch colds and flu in cold weather is that we are indoors and in closer vicinity to others. Protect yourself by washing your hands regularly and try not to touch your face.

Sleep In - The Nei Ching, an ancient Chinese classic, advised people to go to sleep early, rest well and rise late, after the sun's rays have warmed the atmosphere a bit. This preserves your own Yang Qi for the task of warming the body.

Stress Less - Find a release valve for your stress. According to Chinese medicine, stress, frustration, and unresolved anger can play an important part in throwing the immune system off and allowing pathogens to affect the body. Find a way to relax and release stress on a daily basis. Such methods may include yoga, meditation and exercise. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression.

Seasonal Tune-Up - Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can prevent colds and flu by building up the immune system with just a few needles inserted into key points along the body’s energy pathways. These points are known for strengthening the circulation of blood and energy and for consolidating the outer defense layers of the skin and muscle (wei Qi) so that germs and viruses cannot enter through them.

Seasonal acupuncture treatments also serve to tonify the inner organ systems and correct minor annoyances before they become serious problems.

Food Therapy
Did you know that Miso Soup with Scallions is actually an ancient Chinese herbal remedy for colds?

In 300 AD famous herbalist, Ge Hong, wrote about Miso Soup with Scallions in a book called, Bei ji zhou hou fang or Emergency Formulas to Keep Up One’s Sleeve.

This soup is indicated for the onset of a cold when a person is just beginning to feel a headache, stuffy nose and a slight fever.

So, the next time you feel a cold coming on, be sure to have your miso!

Miso Soup
Serves 4

Ingredients:

6 cups water
3-4 Tablespoons Aka Miso or red soy bean paste (usually sold in the refrigerated section)
3-5 green onions stalks, chopped

Directions:

* Dissolve the miso in a little bit of boiling water (about 2 tsp.)
* Bring water to a boil in a saucepan and add the miso & scallions.
* Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
* Remove from heat top with green onions and serve.

Variations: Add other ingredients to make a more substantial soup, such as tofu, fresh mushrooms, cooked shrimp, snow pea sprouts, cooked rice noodles, or paper-thin slices of fresh ginger.

Call for your next appointment now! (904) 448-0046

Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrom/Leon Chaitow, ND,DO

2010-10-22T10:45:00.000-07:00

Massage Today
October, 2010, Vol. 10, Issue 10

Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome
By Leon Chaitow, ND, DO

This brief review of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) management suggests that there are possible biomechanical, behavioural, as well as dietary strategies, that can commonly be helpful. IBS has been defined as abdominal pain, experienced more than once a month, associated with bloating and altered bowel habits. (Moore & Kennedy 2000) By definition, IBS is functional, that is, there is no infection or pathology associated with it. (Abrams et al 2002) It is more common in women than men, and is often associated with other chronic pelvic pain (CPP) symptoms. When IBS is chronic, core muscles (e.g. pelvic muscles) may become hyperalgesic with multiple trigger points. (Fall et al 2010)

Stress

Tak & Rosmalan (2010) discuss the role of the body's "stress responsive systems" in what has been termed functional somatic syndromes, such as IBS, as involving a "multifactorial interplay between psychological, biological, and social factors." Therefore, there is a need to move beyond a search for single causes of most conditions such as IBS, since, like many other complex and difficult-to-treat conditions, they commonly have multi-factorial aetiological features - possibly interacting with predispositions and altered stress-coping functions.

Beales (2004) has described a scenario that highlights multiple contributory factors to functional somatic syndromes: "Too much sustained, [stress] leads to the loss of internal balance, and results in reduced performance and a mind-body system in overdrive. In this state, the metabolism is struggling and cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure are often raised, resulting in ill health ... for instance, sufferers from irritable bowel syndrome may also commonly experience back pain, fatigue and loss of libido. Negative emotions, such as frustration and despair, can trigger exhaustion, which in turn can trigger breathing pattern disorders, as a consequence of the perceived threat to survival eliciting fight, flight or freeze reactions."

Massage offers a highly suitable stress modulating approach. (Moraska et al 2008)

Overbreathing & Colon Constriction

Ford et al (1995) have reported on the high incidence of increased colonic tone and dysfunction in hyperventilating individuals. Hypocapnic hyperventilation (low CO2 blood levels) produces an increase in colonic tone, and phasic contractility in the transverse and sigmoid regions. These findings are consistent with either inhibition of sympathetic innervation to the colon, or the direct effects of over-breathing on colonic smooth muscle contractility, or both.(Chaitow 2007)

Prather et al (2009) expand on these relationships, in review of the anatomy, evaluation, and treatment of musculoskeletal pelvic floor muscle (PFM) pain in women.

They note that persistent muscle contraction of the pelvic floor, related to noxious visceral stimulation, such as that deriving from endometriosis or irritable bowel syndrome, can lead to splinting and pain, with reduction of normal PFM function. Specifically, they report that viscerosomatic reflex activity may be responsible for increased resting tone of the pelvic floor with reduced ability to fully relax the muscle group as a whole. As a result, they suggest, adaptation occurs via recruitment of global muscles in the region (e.g. psoas and iliacus) leading to symptoms such as posterior pelvic and low back pain. Prather et al also point out that: "Proper breathing techniques, while performing exercises and activities, are essential for pelvic floor relaxation ... pelvic floor contraction during exhalation allows for synergy between the pelvic and respiratory diaphragms."

This is also a key to assisting IBS dysfunction.

Diet

In a comprehensive review of the subject Heizer et al (2009) suggest that dietary changes are worth attempting in an effort to relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. It is recommended that dietary restrictions should be introduced one at a time, beginning with any food or food group that appears to cause symptoms based on a careful patient history or review of a patient's food diary. The most effective duration for dietary trials has not been well studied, however 2 to 3 weeks is commonly suggested. A modified exclusion diet, followed by stepwise reintroduction of foods is likely to be more effective in finding problem foods, but it is more time-consuming.

General dietary recommendations for patients with IBS, based on clinical experience and anecdotal reports (Heizer et al 2009) include:

1. avoiding large meals;
2. reducing lactose (eliminate milk, ice cream, and yogurt);
3. reducing fat to no more than 40 to 50 g/day;
4. reducing sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol (mainly "sugarless" gum, read labels);
5. reducing fructose in all forms, including high-fructose corn syrup (read labels), honey, and high-fructose fruits (e.g. dates, oranges, cherries, apples and pears);
6. reducing gas-producing foods (e.g. beans, peas, broccoli, cabbage, and bran);
7. eliminating all wheat and wheat-containing products;
8. a diet low in fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides and polyols;
9. eliminate banana, corn, potato, eggs, and coffee.

Peppermint Oil

Research suggests that use of peppermint oil, particularly in cases of relatively mild IBS is likely to be of benefit in symptomatic treatment of IBS. (Capello et al 2007)

Tumeric (Curcumin)

While some studies have shown potential benefit for use of turmeric (curcumin) in treatment of IBS (a member of the ginger family of plants), no placebo-controlled studies have been conducted. (Heizer et al 2009)

Probiotics

The conclusion of a review of the evidence for use of probiotics in both IBS and inflammatory bowel disease are cautiously positive.(Iannitti & Palmieri 2010) Two meta-analyses (Nifkar et al 2008, McFarland & Dublin 2008)) and two comprehensive narrative reviews (Wilhelm et al 2008, Spiller 2008) on the use of probiotics in the treatment of IBS. All concluded that probiotics may be useful but there are many variables affecting the results such as the type, dose, and formulation of bacteria comprising the probiotic preparation, the outcome measured, as well as size and characteristics of the IBS population studied.

IBS is common. Patients with this condition may respond well to stress reduction, better breathing patterns, biomechanical normalisation (pelvic structures) and trigger point deactivation. For more on the topic of pelvic pain in general, enhanced breathing strategies, and manual therapy, go to: www.leonchaitow.com, or blog: http://chaitowschat-leon.blogspot.com.

Treatment

Acupuncture and Massage therapy can offer a natural approach to alleviating the discomfort of this disease, thereby reducing the need for medications.

Resources

Abrams P, Cardozo L, Fall M et al. The standardisation of terminology of lower urinary tract function: report from the Standardisation Subcommittee of the International Continence Society. Am J Obstet Gyn 2002;187:116-26.
Beales D. "I've got this pain..." Human Givens Journal 2004;11(4):16-8.
Cappello G, Spezzaferro M, Grossi L et al. Peppermint oil (Mintoil) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective double blind placebo-controlled randomized trial. Dig Liver Dis 2007;39:530-6.
Chaitow L. Chronic pelvic pain: Pelvic floor problems, sacroiliac dysfunction and the trigger point connections. JBMT 2007;11(4):327-39.
Fall M, Baranowski A, Elneil S et al. EAU guidelines on chronic pelvic pain. Euro Urology 2010;57(1):35-48.
Ford M, Camilleri M, Hanson R. Hyperventilation, central autonomic control, and colonic tone in humans. Gut 1995;37(4):499-504.
Heizer W, Southern S, McGovern S. The Role of Diet in Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Adults: A Narrative Review. Jour of the Am Diet Assoc 2009;109(7):1204-14.
Iannitti T, Palmieri B. Therapeutical use of probiotic formulations in clinical practice. Clin Nut (In Press Corrected Proof; available online).
Prather H, Dugan S, Fitzgerald C et al. Review of Anatomy, Evaluation, and Treatment of Musculoskeletal Pelvic Floor Pain in Women. PM&R 2009;1(4):346-58.
Moore J, Kennedy S. Causes of chronic pelvic pain. Baillie're's Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2000;14(3)389-402.
Moraska A, Pollini R, Boulanger K et al. Physiological adjustments to stress measures following massage therapy: A review of the literature. Evid Based Complem Alt Med 2008. doi: 10.1093/ecam/nen029.
Riot, Goudet, Moreaux. Levator ani syndrome, functional intestinal disorders and articular abnormalities of the pelvis, the place of osteopathic treatment. Presse Medicale 2005;33(13):852-7.
Tak L, Rosmalen J. Dysfunction of stress responsive systems as a risk factor for functional somatic syndromes. Jour of Psychosomatic Res 2010;68(5):461-8.

To Eat Organic or Not- which foods are safest?

2010-10-12T11:37:00.000-07:00

'Dirty dozen' produce carries more pesticide residue, group says
By Danielle Dellorto, Senior Medical Producer
June 1, 2010 1:31 a.m. EDT

Is enough being done to protect us from chemicals that could harm us? Watch "Toxic America," a special two-night investigative report with Sanjay Gupta, M.D., June 2 and 3 at 8 p.m. ET on CNN.
(CNN) -- If you're eating non-organic celery today, you may be ingesting 67 pesticides with it, according to a new report from the Environmental Working Group.
The group, a nonprofit focused on public health, scoured nearly 100,000 produce pesticide reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to determine what fruits and vegetables we eat have the highest, and lowest, amounts of chemical residue.

Most alarming are the fruits and vegetables dubbed the "Dirty Dozen," which contain 47 to 67 pesticides per serving. These foods are believed to be most susceptible because they have soft skin that tends to absorb more pesticides.

"It's critical people know what they are consuming," the Environmental Working Group's Amy Rosenthal said. "The list is based on pesticide tests conducted after the produce was washed with USDA high-power pressure water system. The numbers reflect the closest thing to what consumers are buying at the store."

Special report: Toxic America
The group suggests limiting consumption of pesticides by purchasing organic for the 12 fruits and vegetables.

"You can reduce your exposure to pesticides by up to 80 percent by buying the organic version of the Dirty Dozen," Rosenthal said.

The Dirty Dozen
Celery

Peaches

Strawberries

Apples

Domestic blueberries

Nectarines

Sweet bell peppers

Spinach

Kale

Collard greens

CherriesPotatoes

Imported grapes

Lettuce

Not all non-organic fruits and vegetables have a high pesticide level. Some produce has a strong outer layer that provides a defense against pesticide contamination. The group found a number of non-organic fruits and vegetables dubbed the "Clean 15" that contained little to no pesticides.

The Clean 15
Onions

Avocados

Sweet corn

Pineapples

Mango

Sweet peas

Asparagus

Kiwi fruit

Cabbage

Eggplant

Cantaloupe

Watermelon

Grapefruit

Sweet potatoes

Sweet onions

What is a pesticide?
A pesticide is a mixture of chemical substances used on farms to destroy or prevent pests, diseases and weeds from affecting crops. According to the USDA, 45 percent of the world's crops are lost to damage or spoilage, so many farmers count on pesticides.

The Environmental Protection Agency, the FDA and the USDA work together to monitor and set limits as to how much pesticide can be used on farms and how much is safe to remain on the produce once it hits grocery store shelves.

"In setting the tolerance amount, the EPA must make a safety finding that the pesticide can be used with 'reasonable certainty of no harm.' The EPA ensures that the tolerance selected will be safe," according the EPA's website.

Although the President's Cancer Panel recently recommended that consumers eat produce without pesticides to reduce their risk of getting cancer and other diseases, the low levels of pesticides found on even the Dirty Dozen are government-approved amounts.

Can small amounts of pesticides hurt you?
The government says that consuming pesticides in low amounts doesn't harm you, but some studies show an association between pesticides and health problems such as cancer, attention-deficit (hyperactivity) disorder and nervous system disorders and say exposure could weaken immune systems.

The Environmental Working Group acknowledges that data from long-term studies aren't available but warns consumers of the potential dangers.
"Pesticides are designed to kill things. Why wait for 20 years to discover they are bad for us?" Rosenthal said.

Some doctors warn that children's growing brains are the most vulnerable to pesticides in food.

"A kid's brain goes through extraordinary development, and if pesticides get into the brain, it can cause damage," said Dr. Philip Landrigan, chairman of the department of preventive medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York.

Can pesticides be washed away?
Not necessarily. The pesticide tests mentioned above were conducted after the food had been power-washed by the USDA. Also, although some pesticides are found on the surface of foods, other pesticides may be taken up through the roots and into the plant and cannot be removed.

"We've found that washing doesn't do much," Rosenthal said. "Peeling can help, although you have to take into account that the pesticides are in the water, so they can be inside the fruit because of the soil."

All fresh produce, whether it's grown with or without pesticides, should be washed with water to remove dirt and potentially harmful bacteria. And health experts agree that when it comes to the Dirty Dozen list, choose organic if it's available.

"To the extent you can afford to do so, [parents] should simply buy organic, because there have been some very good studies that shows people who eat mostly organic food reduce 95 percent of pesticides [in their body] in two weeks," Landrigan said.

You only get one body- treat it well.

Live Well. Be Well. Stay Well

Acupuncture and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

2010-09-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture Newsletter September 2010
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Acupuncture and ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common behavioral conditions among children. In the United States alone, approximately 4.5 million children between the ages of 5-17 years old are diagnosed with ADHD each year. Research indicates that when treating ADHD, a multidisciplinary approach is most effective; combining behavioral therapy, exercise, dietary changes and medication. Now acupuncture can be added as one of the treatment methods that can successfully manage ADHD.

What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is a condition of the brain that makes it difficult to concentrate or control impulsive behavior.

Children with ADHD generally struggle with paying attention or concentrating. They can't seem to follow directions and are easily bored or frustrated with tasks. They also tend to move constantly and are impulsive, not stopping to think before they act. These behaviors are generally common in children. But they occur more often than usual and are more severe in a child with ADHD. The behaviors that are common with ADHD interfere with a child's ability to function at school and at home.

Adults with ADHD may have difficulty with time management, organizational skills, goal setting, and employment. They may also have problems with relationships, self-esteem, and addictions.

Treatment for ADHD
Treatment for ADHD is multifaceted. It consists of ADHD medications, behavioral therapy and lifestyle and dietary modifications. ADHD is best managed when families, educational and health professionals work together to meet the unique needs of the child or adult who has ADHD to help them learn to focus their attention, develop their personal strengths, minimize disruptive behavior, and become productive and successful. Acupuncture is an excellent addition to any treatment plan as it is used to help the body restore balance, treating the root of the disorder, while also diminishing the symptoms of ADHD.

What acupuncture can help with:

• Improve focus and attention
• Manage moods
• Reduce fidgeting
• Lower hyperactivity
• Augment mood management techniques
• Enhance concentration

Treating Children with Acupuncture
Children respond extremely well to acupuncture treatments for many conditions. When treating children, their comfort is of the utmost importance. Treatments tend to be shorter and acupuncture points are usually stimulated gently with very thin needles or with other techniques that do not involve needles.

Needle-free acupuncture treatments may include stroking, rubbing, tapping, and pressing the acupuncture points with tools such as brushes, rollers and blunt probes.

Common childhood conditions treated with Oriental Medicine:

• Failure to thrive syndrome
• Weak constitution
• Colic, excessive night crying, temper tantrums
• Indigestion, GERD, constipation, and diarrhea
• Night terrors
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Allergies, asthma
• Cough and colds
• Eczema and hives
• Ear infections
• Bedwetting

Ginger: Tool in Global Fight Against Childhood Killer?

Could one of the most widely used herbs in cooking around the world be just the right medicine for one of the deadliest conditions children face around the world?

That’s the promise pointed at by a study published in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

In this study, researchers in Taiwan looked at the role of a ginger extract in blocking the toxin that causes 210 million cases of diarrhea worldwide. The toxin is produced by enterotoxigenic E. coli, which accounts for 380,000 worldwide deaths annually. The study found that zingerone, a compound in ginger, was the likely compound responsible for blocking the toxin.

Further study is needed to confirm these findings and determine appropriate dosage, especially for infants. But this natural wonder offers a very inexpensive alternative to drug therapy and great hope to thousands of children in poor countries around the world.

If you would like to learn more about acupuncture in the treatment for ADHD or one of the childhood ailments listed below, please call our office @ (904) 448-0046 for a consultation.

Enhance your Focus with Acupuncture Point, Yintang

Acupuncture has been found to be helpful with all types of emotional and mental health conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Often used for such treatments is Yintang, a point located between the eyebrows - sometimes referred to as “the third eye.”

The Chinese translation for the acupuncture point, Yintang, is “hall of impression”. “Hall” is defined as a corridor or passageway, or the large entrance room of a house. An “impression” is defined as a strong effect produced on the intellect, emotions, or conscience. Thus, Yintang is the entrance or passageway to the mind.

Yintang is used to improve mental clarity, concentration and cognitive function as well as soothe emotions and relieve stress, anxiety and agitation.

Location: Midway between the eyebrows

Indications: Calms the mind, enhances one’s ability to focus, soothes emotions, promotes sleep and relieves depression.

Self Acupressure of Yintang can provide immediate relief of symptoms. For effective self acupressure:

• Breathe Deeply
• Focus on the point as pressure is applied
• Pressure should be strong but not uncomfortable
• Begin when you first feel symptoms and continue until they subside

Meditation and Tai Chi can also help calm and focus the mind.

Source: American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2007

Acupuncture and Eye Health

2010-08-11T10:56:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture Newsletter August 2010
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Acupuncture and Eye Health

Your eyes are a reflection of your overall health. Illnesses such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease can be revealed in the eyes. Conditions such as glaucoma, optic neuritis or vision loss are often associated with systemic health problems. It is this interconnection between your eyes and your health that acupuncture and Oriental medicine can tap into and utilize to treat eye and vision problems. Eye conditions respond well to acupuncture and it has been used successfully to treat a wide range of eye problems for centuries.

How Eye Disorders Are Treated With Acupuncture

Oriental medicine pays close attention to the relationship between tissues and organs. Sometimes an imbalance within the body can manifest as an eye problem, just as the health of the eyes is often a reflection of an imbalance or health problem elsewhere in the body.

When you are treated for an eye condition with acupuncture, any underlying imbalances that are attributing to your symptoms will be addressed. The eye problems will also be treated directly by promoting circulation of Qi (life force) and blood around the eyes.

Common eye problems treated with acupuncture include:

-Glaucoma
-Cataracts
-Chronic Dry Eyes
-Macular Degeneration
-Optic Neuritis
-Optic Atrophy

Acupuncture Points Around the Eye

There are several powerful acupuncture points around the eyes that promote eye health. These points bring Qi and blood to the eyes to nourish the tissue and improve the condition of the eyes.

Jingming (UB-1) - When translated, Jingming means Bright eyes. This point is located in the inner corner of the eye. It is one of the primary points to bring Qi and blood to the eyes and is used for eye problems of all kinds including early-stage cataracts, glaucoma, night blindness, conjunctivitis and blurred vision.

Zanzhu (UB-2) - This point lies in the depression at the inner end of the eyebrow. Like Jingming, it is a primary point for the eyes and is used for all types of eye problems. Some of the indications to use this point include headache, blurring or failing of vision, pain in the supraorbital region, excessive tearing, redness, swelling and pain of the eye, twitching of the eyelids and glaucoma.

Yuyao - In the hollow at the midpoint of the eyebrow, directly above the pupil. It is used for eye strain, pain in the supraorbital region, twitching of the eyelids, ptosis, cloudiness of the cornea, redness, swelling and pain of the eyes.

Sizhukong (SJ 23) - In the hollow at the outside end of the eyebrow. This point is used for eye and facial problems including headaches, redness and pain of the eye, blurring of vision, twitching of the eyelids, toothache and facial paralysis.

Tongziliao (GB 1) - Located on the outside corner of the eye. This point is used to brighten the eyes as well as for headaches, redness and pain of the eyes, failing or blurring of vision, photophobia, dry, itchy eyes, early-stage cataracts and conjunctivitis.

Qiuhou - Below the eye, midway between St-1 and GB-1 along the orbit of the eye. Used for all types of eye disease.

Chengqi (St 1) - With the eyes looking straight forward, this point is directly below the pupil, between the eyeball and the eye socket. This is a main point for all eye problems, conjunctivitis, night blindness, facial paralysis and excessive tearing.

In addition to acupuncture, there are several things you can do each day to maintain eye health and avoid problems:

Drink eight to ten glasses of water to keep your body and eyes hydrated.

Stop smoking.

Exercise to improve overall circulation.

Make a conscious effort to stop periodically to rest and blink frequently especially when reading, working on a computer or watching television.

Avoid rubbing your eyes.

Always remember to always protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV light and glare with protective lenses.

Chrysanthemums: More Than Meets the Eye

Chrysanthemum flowers (Ju Hua) are boiled to make a popular cooling tea to drink or use topically on the eye. Chrysanthemum tea has many medicinal uses. Used for at least 2,000 years, this herb was first listed by the physician Shen Nong who suggested that continued use would "slow aging and prolong life".

The boiled flowers or tea bags may be kept in the fridge and used as eye masks to ease tired eyes, reduce heavy eye bags and get rid of redness, pain or dryness of the eyes.

Cold Chrysanthemum Tea

Ingredients

* 60 - 80 White Chrysanthemum Flowers
* 3 teaspoons of Jasmine Green Tea
* Rock sugar or honey
* 4 liters (1 Gallon) of water

Instructions:

1. Wash the chrysanthemums.
2. Put chrysanthemum and tea into a cooking pot.
3. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add rock sugar or honey.
6. Remove from the heat and cool to room temperature.
7. Strain and put into the refrigerator.
8. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Support your eye health by incorporating these seven essential nutrients into your diet!

Lutein and Zeaxanthin - carotenoid compounds found in the lens and retina of the eyes. These antioxidants protect eyes from free radicals and a diet high in these compounds may protect the eyes from macular degeneration and cataracts. Carotenoid compounds are found in yellow and orange fruits & vegetables, dark green, leafy vegetables and egg yolks.

Vitamin A - helps prevent night blindness, stop the formation of cataracts, and may prevent blindness from macular degeneration. Deficiency can cause dry eyes, corneal ulcers, swollen eyelids and, if not corrected, blindness.

Vitamin C - can help reduce the risk of cataracts. It may also play a role in delaying macular degeneration and preventing and relieving glaucoma.

Vitamin E - a powerful antioxidant shown to prevent cataracts and helps prevent macular degeneration.

Bioflavonoids - give certain foods their color and often work as antioxidants. Any food that contains these nutrients also contains vitamin C. Citrus, red and purple fruits are excellent for the eyes.

Omega 3's - These essential fatty acids convert into prostaglandins that regulate intraocular pressure, help the eye drain and may help protect against dry eye syndrome. Connected with eyesight development, deficiencies of essential fatty acids may lead to impaired vision, retinal or macular damage. The best source of Omega 3's is cold water fish such as Salmon.

Essential Minerals - Zinc, Selenium, and Copper are all essential for healthy eyesight. Zinc helps the body absorb vitamin A which is required for normal eye function and adapting to the dark. Zinc has been used for the specific purpose of reducing age related macular degeneration and a deficiency may lead to cataracts. Selenium helps the body to absorb vitamin E to . Copper helps reduce the development of age related macular degeneration

Would you like to learn more about how acupuncture can help you with an eye condition? Please call now for a consultation. Or visit www.hpjax.com

Treating Thyroid Problems with Acupuncture

2010-07-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™
The Acupuncture Newsletter July 2010

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Treating Thyroid Problems with Acupuncture

When functioning properly, the thyroid gland secretes just the right amount of thyroid hormone to regulate almost all the metabolic processes in your body. Too much or too little of these vital body chemicals and it can drastically influence energy levels, body weight and your mental health. With over 20 million Americans living with some form of thyroid disease, much attention has been given to the many ways that acupuncture and Oriental medicine can treat thyroid problems.

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland that sits in the front of the neck. It is responsible for energy, metabolism, hormone regulation, body weight and blood calcium levels. Thyroid disorders stem from either an overproduction (hyperthyroidism) or underproduction (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones. When your thyroid is not functioning properly, your body can experience a variety of symptoms:

Hyperthyroidism:

Weight loss despite increased appetite
Increased heart rate, heart palpitations, higher blood pressure, nervousness, and excessive perspiration
More frequent bowel movements, sometimes with diarrhea
Muscle weakness, trembling hands
Development of a goiter (an enlargement in your neck)
Lighter or shorter menstrual periods

Hypothyroidism:

Lethargy, slower mental processes or depression
Reduced heart rate
Increased sensitivity to cold
Tingling or numbness in the hands
Development of a goiter (an enlargement in your neck)
Constipation, heavy menstrual periods or dry skin and hair

Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can be diagnosed by testing the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood. Hormones secreted by the thyroid are measured, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a chemical released by the pituitary gland that triggers hormone production in the thyroid. Some milder forms of hypothyroidism can also be detected by a consistently low basal body temperature.

How can acupuncture help?

Both Western and Eastern medicine offer various methods to restore thyroid hormone levels. Western treatments rely mainly on drugs and surgery while Eastern treatments aim to restore immune function as well as balance the production and release of thyroid hormones through a variety of approaches ranging from acupuncture and herbal remedies to lifestyle changes and special exercises.

In the treatment to thyroid problems, acupuncture can be used to restore hormonal balance, regulate energy levels, smooth emotions and help manage sleep, emotions and menstrual problems. There are several powerful acupuncture points on the ear and the body that can be used to regulate the production of thyroid hormones. Treatments take all of your symptoms into account and are aimed at balancing the energy within the body to optimize health.

When it comes to lifestyle changes, a diet rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, and iodine helps support thyroid function while certain foods known as goitrogens may interfere with thyroid hormone production and should be limited. These include cruciferous vegetables (such as cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts), peanuts, and soy. Stress reducing exercises such as yoga or tai chi can also be beneficial.

Basal Body Testing

Blood tests may not be sensitive enough to detect milder forms of hypothyroidism. Monitoring your body's basal (resting) temperature is often used to identify a thyroid hormone deficiency.

To track your basal temperature accurately, follow these guidelines:

• Shake the thermometer below 95°F at night and place it where you can reach it without getting out of bed.

• The following morning, before you get out of bed, take your temperature via your armpit for 10 minutes while staying as still as possible.

• Keep records of your temperature for at least three days. (Women should do this during the first two weeks of the menstrual cycle, as their basal temperature may rise during the latter half.)

•Normal basal body temperatures fall between 97.4° F and 97.8° F. If your basal temperature is consistently low, you could be mildly hypothyroid.

Three Foods to Support Thyroid Function

Seaweed - Iodine is an essential element that assists the thyroid in producing thyroid hormone. By increasing iodine intake, patients have seen an increase in the production of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). The best natural source of iodine is kelp, bladderwrack and other seaweeds.

Coconut Oil - Virgin coconut oil is praised by health experts for its ability to lower cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar. It is made up largely of medium chain fatty acids, or triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are known to speed metabolism, promote weight loss, and raise basal body temperatures.

Brazil nuts and walnuts – These nuts contain high amounts of selenium. Many hypothyroid patients have been found to have deficiencies in this trace mineral.

If you have a thyroid problem, call now for a consultation. A custom-tailored treatment plan will be created to suit your individual needs so that you can feel better quickly and safely!

Acupuncture Relieves Symptoms Of Fibromyalgia

2010-07-27T15:10:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture Relieves Symptoms Of Fibromyalgia, Mayo Clinic Study Finds

ScienceDaily (2006-06-13) -- Fibromyalgia is a disorder considered disabling by many, and is characterized by chronic, widespread musculoskeletal pain and symptoms such as fatigue, joint stiffness and sleep disturbance. No cure is known and available treatments are only partially effective. ... > read full article

Summer Health

2010-06-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture Newsletter
June 2010
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT

Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC

3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305Jacksonville, FL 32216

904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Your Health this Summer

In Oriental medicine, summer is symbolic of maximum activity or greatest yang, which means that it is a time of heat, outgoingness, and moving outward in nature and in our lives. This is the season to nourish and pacify our spirits while maximizing our potential as we find joy in the hot summer days and warm summer nights.

Summer is ruled by the fire element. The fire element corresponds to the heart and small intestine, the southerly direction, the climatic condition of heat, the color red, the emotion of happiness or joy, the sound of laughter, the taste of bitterness and the odor of burning. Fire controls the blood vessels and is reflected in the face and complexion. Signs that the fire element is in balance include a strong and healthy heart, a calm mind and the ability to sleep soundly. When the fire element is imbalanced, we may either lack joy (depression) or have an excess of joy (mania). Indicators of an imbalance in the fire element also include agitation, nervousness, heartburn, and insomnia.

This is a great time to schedule your acupuncture summer tune up! Call for more information.

Mango and Peach Salsa

An easy and healthy peach and mango salsa recipe. The delicate flavors of mangos and peaches combine with onions and garlic in this sweet-and-savory salsa recipe. Try it with chips for a light snack on a hot summer night, or add to a vegetable burrito for an unusual twist. INGREDIENTS:

2 mangos, peeled and chopped

2 fresh peaches, peeled and chopped

1 sweet onion, diced

1 medium tomato, diced (optional)

2 cloves garlic

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

dash salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:Combine all ingredients in a bowl. If you have a food processor, you can process all the ingredients in chunks, rather than dicing and chopping. Chill for at least one hour, to allow flavors to combine, and stir well before serving.Serve chilled and enjoy!

Benefits of Acupuncture in Cancer Care

On Sunday June 6th, cancer survivors celebrated the 23rd annual National Cancer Survivors Day, sponsored by the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation. The event, which includes hundreds of gatherings across the US, is a time to celebrate life. Here are some ways that acupuncture can help while being treated for and recovering from cancer. Cancer treatments are aggressive and cause numerous unwanted side effects as well as a lowered immune system. Acupuncture is an excellent adjunctive therapy in cancer treatments because of its ability to relieve pain, reduce side effects, accelerate recovery and improve quality of life.What Acupuncture is used for during Cancer TreatmentAcupuncture provides a total approach to health care for people with cancer. It can be used to address many of the concerns that come up during and after chemotherapy, radiation, biological therapy and surgery.According to the National Cancer Institute, acupuncture may cause physical responses in nerve cells, the pituitary gland, and parts of the brain. These responses can cause the body to release proteins, hormones, and brain chemicals that control a number of body functions. It is proposed that, by these actions, acupuncture affects blood pressure and body temperature, boosts immune system activity, and causes the body's natural painkillers, such as endorphins, to be released.

Areas that acupuncture has shown the most promise include:
Nausea and Vomiting
Dry Mouth, Night Sweats and Hot Flashes
Stress, Anxiety and Fatigue
Pain Management
Increasing White Blood Cell Count

To learn more about how acupuncture can safely and effectively be incorporated into care for people with cancer, please call for a consultation today.Source: National Cancer Institute. http://www.nci.nih.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/acupuncture/HealthProfessional/page3

Chemo-Induced Nausea Study

Effect of Acupuncture on Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and VomitingAccording to the National Cancer Institute, of all the investigated effects of acupuncture on cancer-related or chemotherapy-related symptoms and disorders, the positive effect of acupuncture on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting is the most convincing.

Numerous studies have consistently shown acupuncture to be effective in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting as well as as postoperative and morning sickness nausea and vomiting.A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial investigated the effect of electro-acupuncture on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in 104 patients with breast cancer who were undergoing a highly emetogenic (causes vomiting) chemotherapy regimen. The patients were randomly assigned to receive low-frequency electro-acupuncture at classic acupuncture points for nausea and vomiting once daily for 5 days, minimal needling at control points with mock electro-acupuncture on the same schedule, or no adjunct needling.

All patients received concurrent antiemetic drugs (prochlorperazine, lorazepam, and diphenhydramine) and high-dose chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, cisplatin, and carmustine). The main outcome measures were the total number of emesis (vomiting) episodes and the proportion of emesis-free days occurring during the 5-day study period.

The data revealed significantly fewer emesis episodes in the electro-acupuncture treatment group compared with those in the minimal needling and drug-only control groups.

Source: Shen J, Wenger N, Glaspy J, et al.: Electroacupuncture for control of myeloablative chemotherapy-induced emesis: A randomized controlled trial. JAMA 284 (21): 2755-61, 2000.

Nearly everything in the produce aisle can help you prevent cancer, but there are items throughout the supermarket that can protect your health and the health of your family.

Produce Aisle Picks:

Cantaloupe - a great source of carotenoids, plant chemicals that act as antioxidants shown to reduce the risk of lung cancer.

Kale and cabbage - cruciferous vegetables are widely considered to be one of the healthiest food choices you can make. Included in this family of vegetables are broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage and bok choy. Cruciferous vegetables are high in vitamins, fiber, and potent anti-cancer phytochemicals.

According to the American Institute for Cancer, there is solid evidence that links cruciferous vegetables and protection against cancer. Studies have shown that this vegetable group has the ability to stop the growth of cancer cells for tumors in the breast, uterine lining, lung, colon, liver, and cervix. And studies that track the diets of people over time have found that diets high in cruciferous vegetables are linked to lower rates of prostate cancer.

It is recommended that we eat 3-5 servings of cruciferous vegetables per week. It's best to eat these veggies raw or only lightly steamed so they retain their cancer fighting phytochemicals.

Freezer Aisle Pick:

Edamame (soybeans) - These cancer-fighting beans contain phytoestrogens, that may help prevent estrogen-driven cancers by binding to estrogen receptors. They are also good for the men of the household since evidence suggests the isoflavones found in soy products may help fight prostate cancer.

Cereal Aisle Pick:

Whole Grain Oats - Oats have the highest proportion of soluble fiber of any grain. Fiber is rich in antioxidants, helps fight colon cancer and phenolic compounds in whole grains my help reduce the risk of certain GI cancers. Pick cereals high in folate, fiber and/or flaxseed.

Beverage Aisle Picks:

Orange juice - this favorite breakfast beverage is a powerful source of folate which has been linked to lowered risk for GI and pancreatic cancer.

Green tea - green tea is lower in caffeine than coffee and can help prevent prostate cancer and possibly bladder cancer.

Pomegranate juice - this juice is extremely antioxidant-rich and helps prevent colon and prostate cancer.

Soy milk - also made from soy beans, soy milk works the same way as edamame to fight cancer.

Household Aisle Picks:

Sunscreen – summer is starting, so lather on the SPF each and every time you go out in the sun to block exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Mop or damp cloth - it's important to get rid of dust without spreading it around your home. Recent evidence has shown that dust can contain carcinogens that are known to cause cancer.

Qi Mail™ is an opt-in acupuncture newsletter available by subscription only. We neither use nor endorse the use of spam. You are welcome to forward Qi Mail™ to friends and colleagues at any time.

2010-04-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture NewsletterApril 2010
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Acupuncture for Facial Rejuvenation

Acupuncture has been used to treat skin complaints and reduce signs of aging for centuries. In fact, facial rejuvenation acupuncture, also known as cosmetic acupuncture, has a recorded history going as far back as China's Sung Dynasty (960AD – 1270AD), when the Empress and the Emperor’s concubines used it to engender beauty and good health.

Facial rejuvenation acupuncture can improve muscle tone, increase collagen production, tighten pores and boost circulation and moisture in the skin. Moreover, when acupuncture is used to create overall balance within the body, the physical, mental and emotional patterns that contribute to aging are addressed, helping you look and feel younger.

The theory behind facial acupuncture is that hair-thin needles inserted along wrinkles and frown lines stimulate energy and relax the muscles. This leads to a tightening of the facial muscles, which decreases sagging of the facial skin, and an increase in the production of collagen, filling in fine lines and wrinkles.

Benefits of Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture
Increases the production of collagen and elastin

Improves muscle tone (preventing further aging and wrinkles)

Improves local lymph and blood circulation

Softens or erases fine lines and wrinkle

Reduces the depth of deeper line

Decreases bags (puffiness) under the eyes

Reduces or eliminates acne and rosacea

Provides a consistently smoother and brighter face

To look and feel years younger, facial rejuvenation acupuncture offers less risk, expense and recovery time than medical alternatives. While this procedure cannot reshape facial features, it is a more subtle rejuvenation that can take years off one’s face safely and naturally while improving overall health.
Treatments are personalized for each patient.
If you would like to learn more about facial rejuvenation acupuncture, please call for a consultation today!

The 5-Minute Acupressure Face Lift

Here is a 5-Minute Acupressure Face Lift to smooth wrinkles and firm up the face.
To draining the lymph system and smooth the skin
• Begin at the center of the forehead using the thumbs, and stroke across the eyebrows. Repeat 3 times.
• With the pads of the thumb, move from the outside edge of the eyebrows to the hollow in front of the ear (Fig 1).
• Using 3 inner fingers of both hands to massage the back of the neck from middle towards outside for 30 seconds with circular motion.

To lift and tone the face, chin and neck
• Stroke upward in lines from the eyebrows into the hairline. Repeat 3 to 5 times (Fig 2).
• Press on DU20 (the point on the very top of the head) to bring energy upward. Repeat 3 to 5 times.
• Using the pads of the thumbs, stroke in a circular motion from the eyebrow to temple to jawline and to the points below the eye. Repeat 9 to 12 times (See Fig 3).
• For neck wrinkles: Stroke upward from the collar bone to the jawline. Repeat 3–5 times (See Fig 4).

Sweet Rice CongeeRecipe for Nourishing Beauty
Sweet black rice, when cooked with longan berries (euphoria longana) and Chinese dates, becomes a congee that nourishes blood and Qi.
In the Oriental medicine system of food cures, these three foods work together to enhance beauty and longevity.
• The sweet rice promotes the flow of liver Qi, which helps keep angry feelings at bay and leads to calmness.
• The Chinese dates (different from the Mediterranean variety) nourish blood and spleen, promoting restful sleep and mental clarity.
• Longan fruit, a blood enhancer, was used by the ancients to add luster to the skin. From a Western perspective, we know that longans contain large amounts of Vitamin C and phenolic compounds, which may help to detoxify and protect the liver.
Sweet Rice Congee(Taken from Ancient Healing for Modern Women, by Dr. Xiolan Zhao, C.M.D.)
Ingredients:
6 cups water1 cup black sweet rice (wash before using)½ cup dried longan fruit10 Chinese dates2 tablespoons raw sugar½ inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
Instructions:
In a large heavy saucepan, add 6 cups of water, black sweet rice, longan fruit, dates, and raw sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for two hours, stirring occasionally. Garnish with ginger. Makes four servings.
Note: All ingredients are available at most Asian grocery stores.
Author: Elizabeth G. Lynch

2010-03-09T15:16:00.001-08:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture Newsletter
March 2010
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC

3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305Jacksonville, FL 32216

904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Stop Smoking with Acupuncture

Among current U.S. adult smokers, 70% report that they want to quit smoking and millions try to quit every year. If you have attempted to quit smoking, you know how difficult it can be. Nicotine is a powerful addiction. In fact, research suggests that nicotine is as addictive as heroin, cocaine, or alcohol.It is estimated that most smokers will attempt to quit two or three times, or more, before finally kicking the habit. When conventional methods to quit smoking have failed, smokers often look outside mainstream approaches and turn to alternative medicine.

Acupuncture as an alternative approach to smoking cessation has a growing number of converts. In fact, acupuncture is often a court mandated treatment for drug addicts because of its ability to reduce cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety and difficulty concentrating. A Formidable Addiction More than 50 million Americans smoke. The numbers are even higher in other parts of the globe, with worldwide statistics showing that one out of three people over the age of 18 are smokers. The reasons to quit smoking are endless. Cigarettes have 4,000 chemicals, including 43 known cancer-causing (carcinogenic) compounds and 400 other toxins. These include nicotine, tar and carbon monoxide, as well as formaldehyde, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, arsenic and DDT. According to the CDC, tobacco is the cause of 443,000 premature deaths each year, and is associated with emphysema, lung cancer, high blood pressure, shortness of breath, chronic cough and an increase in frequency of colds and flu.Many people want to quit because of the enormous expense of a cigarette habit or are just plain tired of being dependant on a substance. There is also considerable social pressure not to smoke. Most smokers can recall a dirty look or rude comment from someone that was nearby when they lit up.

How Does Acupuncture Help Break the Cigarette Habit?Acupuncture is successful with smoking cessation and has turned a growing number of cigarette smokers into permanent ex-smokers. Treatments take all of your symptoms into account and aim at balancing the energy within the body to optimize health. The acupuncture treatments focus on jitters, cravings, irritability and restlessness; all symptoms that people commonly complain about when they quit. It also aids in relaxation and detoxification. In one study conducted at the University of Oslo, Norway, acupuncture was found to significantly reduce the desire to smoke up to five years after the initial treatment. Subjects of the study also reported that cigarettes tasted worse than before treatment and that the treatments had effectively reduced their taste for tobacco.The acupuncture needles used are hair-thin. They are superficially inserted into various points in the ears and body to assist with smoking cessation. In between treatments, small pellets are often taped to the acupuncture points on the ear. When a cigarette craving hits, gently pressing on the pellets stimulates the acupuncture points to calm the mind and eliminate the craving.

Acupuncture is not a panacea or a magic cure in the treatment of any addiction, including smoking. But, acupuncture is effective in making it easier to quit and remain smoke-free for good. If you are ready to quit, call for a consultation to see how acupuncture can empower you to take control and begin a healthy and smoke-free life!

Source: Preventive Medicine. Volume 33, Issue 5, November 2001, Pages 364-372

Multivitamins, Folate, and Green Vegetables May Halt Gene Modification in Smokers

Green vegetables, multivitamins, and folate may protect current and former smokers against lung cancer, according to a study that appeared in the January 15 issue of Cancer Research. This study, supported by the National Cancer Institute, adds to the growing accumulation of research connecting high folate intake to decreased cancer rates.

In the study, researchers examined sputum samples of 1101 current and former smokers from the Lovelace Smokers Cohort in New Mexico. Detailed study of the cells and comparison of those cells with the Harvard Food Frequency profiles of the smokers’ dietary intake of leafy green vegetables, multivitamins and folate revealed that the dietary substances could be used to predict the prevalence of cellular gene methylation - a chemical modification used by the cell to control gene expression. High methylation is a potential marker for the early detection of lung cancer. The study also investigated the associations between 21 dietary variables and methylation. Both higher intake of leafy green vegetables and folate were significantly associated with a reduced probability of high methylation.Source: Cancer Research 70, 568, January 15, 2010

There is an acupuncture point located on the wrist that is used exclusively for smoking cessation. The acupuncture point is used to alter the way cigarettes taste. The acupuncture point is called, Tim Mee. It is located approximately one fingers breadth above the transverse crease of the wrist on the inside of the arm. Tim Mee is often used in conjunction with another acupuncture point, Lung 7 that is located right above Tim Mee. Lung 7 is one of the most powerful of the lung meridian points. It is a popular acupuncture point for stopping a persistent cough and relieving a sore throat. Lung 7 is often used to treat conditions related to the head and neck. It is also used to improve circulation in the brain and stimulate memory.

Eight Tips to Quit Smoking

1. Exercise more. Getting moving is a great way to remind yourself why you shouldn't smoke. Exercise can reduce your stress and help you relax far better than cigarettes.

2. Get plenty of fresh fruit and vegetable juices to neutralize and clear the blood of nicotinic acid and to fortify blood sugar.

3. Carrots, Carrot juice, celery, leafy green salads and citrus fruits promote body alkalinity and decrease cravings.

4. Avoid junk food, sugar and coffee. They can upset blood sugar levels and increase blood acidity which can aggravate smoking withdrawal symptoms.

5. Lobelia Tea or Green Tea can be sipped daily during the detox period to keep tissues flooded with elements that discourage nicotine cravings. Lobelia is traditionally used to rid the body of a strong toxin such as a snake bite.

6. Drink water. Research shows that dryness causes cravings. Sip water frequently throughout the day.

7. Practice deep breathing exercises to increase body oxygen and keep calm.

8. Come in for your acupuncture treatment.

Be Kind to your body~ You only get one in this lifetime!

5 Steps to a Healthy Heart with Acupuncture

2010-02-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture Newsletter
February 2010
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT

Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC

3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305Jacksonville, FL 32216

904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

5 Steps to a Healthy Heart with Acupuncture

February is the American Heart Association's Heart Health Awareness Month, emphasizing the dangers of heart disease and the importance of heart health. Heart disease includes conditions affecting the heart, such as coronary heart disease, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and congenital heart disease. Despite dramatic medical advances over the past fifty years, heart disease remains a leading cause of death globally and the number one cause of death in the United States.

By integrating acupuncture and Oriental medicine into your heart healthy lifestyle, you can dramatically reduce your risk of heart disease.Taking small steps to improve your health can reduce your risk for heart disease by as much as eighty percent. Steps to prevention include managing high blood pressure, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress and improved sleep - all of which can be helped with acupuncture.

Manage High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure makes the heart work harder, increasing its oxygen demands and contributing to angina. This excessive pressure can lead to an enlarged heart (cardiomegaly), as well as damage to blood vessels in the kidneys and brain. It increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke and kidney disease.Acupuncture has been found to be particularly helpful in lowering blood pressure. By applying acupuncture needles at specific sites along the wrist, inside the forearm or in the leg, researchers at the Susan Samueli Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of California, Irvine, were able to stimulate the release of opioids, which decreases the heart’s activity and thus its need for oxygen. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure.

Quit Smoking: Most people associate cigarette smoking with breathing problems and lung cancer. But did you know that smoking is also a major cause of coronary artery disease? In fact, about twenty percent of all deaths from heart disease are directly related to cigarette smoking.Acupuncture has shown to be an effective treatment for smoking. Acupuncture treatments for smoking cessation focus on jitters, cravings, irritability, and restlessness; symptoms that people commonly complain about when they quit. It also aids in relaxation and detoxification.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is associated with diabetes, high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, all of which increase the risk of developing heart disease, but studies have shown that excess body weight itself (and not just the associated medical conditions) can also lead to heart failure. Even if you are entirely healthy otherwise, being overweight still places you at a greater risk of developing heart failure. Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine are an excellent adjunctive tool when it comes to losing weight. They can help to energize the body, maximize the absorption of nutrients, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress the appetite, and reduce anxiety.

Reduce Stress: Stress is a normal part of life. But if left unmanaged, stress can lead to emotional, psychological, and even physical problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, chest pains, or irregular heart beats. Medical researchers aren't sure exactly how stress increases the risk of heart disease. Stress itself might be a risk factor, or it could be that high levels of stress make other risk factors worse. For example, if you are under stress, your blood pressure goes up, you may overeat, you may exercise less, and you may be more likely to smoke.Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of stress, anxiety and mental health. In addition to acupuncture, Oriental medicine offers a whole gamut of tools and techniques that can be integrated into your life to keep stress in check. These tools include Tui Na, Qi Gong exercises, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, meditations and acupressure that you can administer at home.

Improve Sleep: Poor sleep has been linked with high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, heart failure, heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, and obesity. Researchers have shown that getting at least eight hours of sleep is needed for good heart health and getting less than eight hours of sleep can put you at a greater risk for developing heart disease.Acupuncture has shown great success treating a wide array of sleep problems without any of the side effects of prescription or over-the-counter sleep aids. The acupuncture treatments for problems sleeping focus on the root disharmony within the body that is causing the insomnia. Therefore, those who use acupuncture for insomnia achieve not only better sleep, but also an overall improvement of physical and mental health.

Come in for a consultation during Heart Health Awareness Month to see how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can assist you with your heart health and help you to live a long, healthy life.

Study Shows Acupuncture Significantly Lowers Blood Pressure

A German study published in the journal, Circulation, found that acupuncture significantly lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The extent of the blood pressure reductions by acupuncture treatments was comparable to those seen with antihypertensive medication or aggressive lifestyle changes, including radical salt restrictions.

For the study, 160 outpatients with uncomplicated, mild to moderate hypertension were randomized to six weeks of acupuncture performed by Oriental medicine practitioners or to a sham procedure. Patients underwent 22 sessions, each 30 minutes in length. By the end of the six weeks, 24 hour ambulatory systolic and diastolic blood pressures were significantly reduced from baseline in the acupuncture treated patients (5.4 mm Hg and 3.0 mm Hg, respectively). No significant changes were seen in the sham acupuncture group.After six months the blood pressure reductions disappeared, leading investigators to conclude that ongoing acupuncture treatments would be required to maintain the blood pressure reductions. Source: Circulation, June 2007

Here are some suggestions to support your heart healthy lifestyle.

Green Tea: Green tea contains several powerful antioxidants that reduce bad cholesterol and boost good cholesterol, improving an individuals overall cholesterol profile. Drinking green tea also seems to enhance cardiovascular health by improving the consistency of platelets in the blood and may even lower blood pressure.GarlicJust one clove a day--or 300 mg, three times daily--reduces the risk of a heart attack at least three ways: It discourages red blood cells from sticking together and blocking your arteries, it reduces arterial damage, and it discourages cholesterol from lining the arteries and making them so narrow that blockages are likely.

Fruit: Oranges contain folic acid that helps lower your levels of homocysteine, a heart attack risk factor. Grapes are loaded with flavonoids and resveratrol, both potent antioxidants that may discourage red blood cells from clumping together and forming an artery-blocking clot. Pomegranate juice is chock-full of potassium and polyphenols, which promote heart health and have been shown to help lower cholesterol

Vegetables: Make sure that cruciferous vegetables such as kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cabbage, which are a gold mine of antioxidants and other heart-saving phytochemicals, are part of your heart health diet every day.

Fish: Fatty fish such as salmon and anchovies are foods loaded with the omega-3 fatty acids that will help your heart maintain a steady rhythm. Having even one fish serving a week could reduce your risk of death from a heart attack by fifty two percent.

Flaxseed : Flaxseed is one of the most potent sources of heart health-promoting omega-3 fats. Studies indicate that adding flaxseed to your diet can reduce the development of heart disease by forty six percent while helping keep red blood cells from clumping together and forming clots that can block arteries. Sprinkle 2 Tbs flaxseed a day on your cereal or salad.

Nuts: Studies have found that those who eat more than 5 oz of nuts a week are one-third less likely to have either heart disease or a heart attack. Just don't overdo it--nuts can pile on the pounds.

Red Wine: Scientific studies overwhelmingly show that a daily glass of wine can reduce your risk of a heart attack. Both plant compounds called saponins and antioxidants in the "fruit of the vine" work to protect arteries. Researchers have found that red is much more effective than white for improving heart health.

Love your Heart as Much as it Loves you!

Create Lasting Resolutions & Improve Memory

2010-01-13T12:08:00.000-08:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture Newsletter
January 2010
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216904-448-0046
(904)448-0046/www.hpjax.com

5 Ways Acupuncture Creates Lasting New Year's Resolutions

It is the beginning of a new year and, once again, a time to reflect on what changes we can make to improve our lives. If you are intent on improving your health this year, acupuncture and Oriental medicine may be the very thing you need to "stick" to those resolutions.Here's how acupuncture can help you achieve your goals:

Resolution 1: Reach Target Weight and Stay There
Losing weight is the #1 most common New Year's Resolution. Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can help you reach your goal weight and maintain it by promoting better digestion, smoothing emotions, reducing appetite, improving metabolism, and eliminating food cravings.From an Oriental medicine perspective, the acupuncture points, foods and herbs that are chosen to assist with weight loss directly influence the Qi of the Spleen and Liver systems to treat the root imbalances that are causing the weight gain.From a Western perspective, acupuncture and Oriental medicine have been shown to have an effect on the function of the nervous system, endocrine system, digestive system, food cravings, and metabolism. All of which can help to energize the body, maximize the absorption of nutrients, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress the appetite, and reduce anxiety.

Resolution 2: Stay Sharp
Your New Year’s resolution may be to learn a new language or take a class at your local college. However you choose to exercise your brain, acupuncture can help. Numerous studies suggest that acupuncture can help improve memory, mental clarity, concentration and cognitive function.One recently published study (see below) shows how acupuncture can be used to treat memory impairment induced by diabetes and cerebral ischemia. Other studies have looked at how acupuncture affects the performance of students during an exam, post-menopausal "brain fog", Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. All results, thus far, have been positive.

Resolution 3: Relieve Pain Naturally
If pain is keeping you from living your life to the fullest, acupuncture can help. Increasingly, people are looking for more natural approaches to help relieve painful conditions instead of relying on medications. Acupuncture has no side effects and can be helpful for all types of pain, regardless of what is causing the pain or where the pain is located. Some studies have shown the pain relief it provides can last for months.Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain before and after acupuncture treatment for pain shows dramatic decreases in activity in the pain centers of the brain - up to 70%. In addition to reducing pain, acupuncture also hastens the healing process by increasing circulation and attracting white blood cells to an injured area.

Resolution 4: Quit Smoking
Acupuncture has turned a growing number of cigarette cravers into permanent ex-smokers. In fact, researchers say that acupuncture is a promising treatment for all types of addiction from cigarettes to heroin.In one study, a team from Yale University successfully used auricular (ear) acupuncture to treat cocaine addiction. Results showed that 54.8% of participants tested free of cocaine during the last week of treatment, compared to 23.5% and 9.1% in the two control groups. Those who completed acupuncture treatment also had longer periods of sustained abstinence compared to participants in the control groups.The acupuncture treatments for smoking cessation focus on jitters, cravings, irritability, and restlessness; symptoms that people commonly complain about when they quit. It also aids in relaxation and detoxification.

Resolution 5: Eliminate Stress
Stress reduction is always on the top ten list for New Year’s resolutions and for a good reason. Stress is often the cause of illness and the deterioration of health. Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of stress, anxiety and lowering blood pressureIn addition to acupuncture, Oriental medicine offers a whole gamut of tools and techniques that can be integrated into your life to keep stress in check. These tools include Tui Na, Qi Gong exercises, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, meditations and acupressure that you can administer at home.Needless to say, if the stress in your life is throwing you off balance, consider coming in for a treatment to regain peace of mind and stay healthy.Call now to see how Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help you with your New Year’s Resolutions!

Acupuncture Improves Memory and Learning Capacity

Acupuncture can significantly improve learning and memory capacity that has been impaired by hyperglycemia and cerebral ischemia, according to a new study.
A study published in the journal, Neuroscience Letters, reported on whether electroacupuncture (acupuncture needles stimulated with a mild electrical current) could improve learning and memory in rats whose memory and cognitive functions were impaired by the decreased circulatory effects of diabetes resulting in cerebral ischemia.In the study, the effects of the acupuncture treatments were measured with a passive avoidance test, an active avoidance test, the Morris water maze and electrophysiology. With all tests, significant improvements were seen in restoring memory and learning capacity.The researchers remarked that previous investigations have demonstrated that electroacupuncture can improve primary and secondary symptoms such as peripheral neuropathy and diabetic encephalopathy in diabetic rats. They believe that the positive results of this study warrant further investigation.Source: Neuroscience Letters Volume 443, Issue 3, 10 October 2008, Pages 193-198doi:10.1016/j.physletb.2003.10.071

In This Issue
5 Ways Acupuncture Creates Lasting New Year's Resolutions
Acupuncture Improves Memory and Learning Capacity
Acupuncture Point for Mental Clarity: Du 20
Healthy Brain Habits
Acupuncture Point for Mental Clarity: Du 20

Feeling a little foggy? Having trouble concentrating? Massage the acupuncture point, Du 20 for some mental clarity. Du 20 is located on the top of the head, midway between the ears. It is used to clear the mind and improve focus. Stimulate the point with your index finger for 30-45 seconds for a quick "brain boost".

Healthy Brain Habits

Here are some steps you can take to help optimize brain health and sharpen your memory:

Eat More Produce - Studies that focus on food and memory show that the more produce you eat, the better. One 25-year Harvard Medical School study of more than 13,000 women showed that the participants who ate relatively high amounts of vegetables over the years had less age-related decline in memory. Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage) and leafy green vegetables had the biggest effect on helping women retain their memory during the course of the study. In another study, the phytochemicals, anthocyanin (found in berries of all colors and cherries) and quercetin (found in onions, kale and apples), actually reversed some of the age-related memory deficits in laboratory animals.

Heart Health – A healthy heart makes for a healthy brain. Because oxygen and nutrients are carried in the blood stream, anything that impedes blood flow will starve those all-important brain cells. Review your blood pressure and cholesterol level. Know your numbers and if they are elevated, take immediate measures to bring them down.Sleep – When we sleep, the brain has time to recharge. Studies show that 7-8 hours of sleep a night helps to strengthen memory. Acupuncture is effective at treating sleep problems, so please let us know if you are having trouble sleeping.

Exercise - Regular physical activity has been shown to decrease the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease by about half. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and helps regulate blood sugar levels; both of which improve brain function and memory. Aim for 30 minutes a day.

Challenge Your Brain - Keep your mind active and challenged. Brain function decreases with age. Studies show that cognitive exercise can improve blood flow to the brain. Spend at least 15 minutes each day on a mental exercise such as a crossword puzzle, journaling or learning a new language to slow memory loss.

Be Well, Stay Well!

8 Perfect Stay-Young Foods

2010-01-11T10:52:00.000-08:00

8 Perfect Stay-Young Foods

Julee Miller, AP, DOM,LMT

Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC

3840 Belfort Road #305

Jacksonville, FL 32216

(904) 448-0046/ http://www.hpjax.com/

As each year begins, we reassess what is working for us, and what itsn't. This is usually is accompanied by the desire to eat healthier, and lose weight. This article: "Eat This, Not That" by David Zinczenko, with Matt Goulding a Yahoo! Health Expert for Nutrition will assist you on your way to a HEALTHIER YOU in 2010 and beyond.

Eating right isn't just about weight loss—the nutrients you take in can have a serious effect on how you think, feel, and look! Our bodies and our feelings are nothing more than reflections of the various chemicals flowing through our system on a daily basis. Make sure those chemicals are the healthy kind you get from the right mix of fruits and vegetables, proteins and fats, and you’ll feel healthier, more energetic, and happier than you have in years.
In Eat This, Not That! 2010, we compiled a list of eight foods that can help keep you young. You’re only as young as you feel—so add these eight nutritious powerhouses to your daily diet, and start feeling (and acting and looking) years younger!

EGGS
Benefit: Weight loss
Substitute: Egg Beaters egg substitute
When it comes to breakfast, you can’t beat eggs. (That was too easy, wasn’t it?) Seriously, at a cost of only 72 calories, each large egg holds 6.3 grams of high-quality protein and a powerhouse load of vital nutrients. A study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that people who replace carbs with eggs for breakfast lose weight 65 percent quicker. Researchers in Michigan were able to determine that regular egg eaters enjoyed more vitamins and minerals in their diets than those who ate few or no eggs. By examining surveys from more than 25,000 people, the researchers found that egg eaters are about half as likely to be deficient in vitamin B12, 24 percent less likely to be deficient in vitamin A, and 36 percent less likely to be deficient in vitamin E. And here’s something more shocking: Those who ate at least four eggs a week had significantly lower cholesterol levels than those who ate fewer than one. Turns out, the dietary cholesterol in the yolk has little impact on your serum cholesterol.

Bonus tip: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Choose wisely—avoid the foods on our list of 20 Worst Breakfasts in America.

GREEN TEA
Benefit: Longer lifespan
Substitutes: Yerba mate, white tea, oolong tea, rooibos (red) tea
Literally hundreds of studies have been carried out documenting the health benefits of catechins, the group of antioxidants concentrated in the leaves of tea plants. Among the most startling studies was one published by the American Medical Association in 2006. The study followed more than 40,000 Japanese adults for a decade, and at the 7-year follow-up, those who had been drinking five or more cups of tea per day were 26 percent less likely to die of any cause compared with those who averaged less than a cup. Looking for more-immediate results? Another Japanese study broke participants into two groups, only one of which was put on a catechin-rich green-tea diet. At the end of 12 weeks, the green-tea group had achieved significantly smaller body weights and waistlines than those in the control group. Why? Because researchers believe that catechins are effective at boosting metabolism.

Bonus tip: The average American consumes 400 liquid calories a day. Minimize that impact—avoid the 20 Worst Drinks in America.

GARLIC
Benefit: Cardiovascular strengthening
Substitutes: Onions, chives, leeks
Allicin, an antibacterial and antifungal compound, is the steam engine pushing forward garlic’s myriad health benefits. The chemical is produced by the garlic plant as a defense against pests, but inside your body, it fights cancer, strengthens your cardiovascular system, decreases fat storage, and fights acne inflammation. To activate the most allicin possible, you have to crush the garlic as finely as you can: Peel the cloves, and then use the side of a heavy chef's knife to crush the garlic before carefully mincing it. Be sure not to overcook it, as too much heat will render the compound completely useless (and your food totally bitter).

Bonus tip: Some foods keep you looking young. Others can quite literally cure what ails you. Check out these super 15 Foods That Cure.

GRAPEFRUIT
Benefit: Weight loss
Substitutes: Oranges, watermelon, tomatoes
Just call it the better-body fruit. In a study of 100 obese people at the Scripps Clinic in California, those who ate half a grapefruit with each meal lost an average of 3.6 pounds over the course of 12 weeks, and some lost as many as 10 pounds. The study’s control group, in contrast, lost a paltry 1/2 pound. But here’s something even better: Those who ate the grapefruit also exhibited a decrease in insulin levels, indicating that their bodies had improved their ability to metabolize sugar. If you can't stomach a grapefruit-a-day regime, try to find as many ways possible to sneak grapefruit into your diet. Even a moderate increase in grapefruit intake should yield results, not to mention earn you a massive dose of lycopene—the cancer-preventing antioxidant found most commonly in tomatoes.

Bonus tip: Eat well and you’ll feel younger and more vibrant. Add exercise to the mix and you’ll practically erase markers of age.

GREEK YOGURT
Benefit: Feeling fuller for longer
Substitutes: Kefir and yogurt with “live and active cultures” printed on the product label
If it’s dessert you want, go with regular yogurt; but if it’s protein, go Greek. What sets the two apart? Greek yogurt is separated from the watery whey that sits on top of regular yogurt, and the process removes excessive sugars, such as lactose, and increases the concentration of protein by as much as three times. That means it fills your belly more like a meal than a snack. Plus a single cup has about a quarter of your day’s calcium, and studies show that dieters on calcium-rich diets have an easier time losing body fat In one study, participants on a high-calcium dairy diet lost 70 percent more body weight than those on a calorie-restricted diet alone. If only a similar claim could be made of everything you eat.

Bonus tip: Fruit-on-the-bottom yogurt is a classic example of a food that doesn’t deserve its healthy reputation—see what else makes our list of the 30 “Healthy” Foods that Aren’t.

AVOCADO
Benefit: Reduced risk of heart disease
Substitutes: Olive, canola, and peanut oils; peanut butter; tahini
Here’s what often gets lost in America’s fat phobia: Some fats are actually good for you. More than half the calories in each creamy green fruit comes from one of the world’s healthiest fats, a kind called monounsaturates. These fats differ from saturated fats in that they have one double-bonded carbon atom, but that small difference at the molecular level amounts to a dramatic improvement in your health. Numerous studies have shown that monounsaturated fats both improve you cholesterol profile and decrease the amount of triglycerides (more fats) floating around in your blood. This can lower your risk of stroke and heart disease. Worried about weight gain? Don’t be. There’s no causal link between monounsaturated fats and body fat.

BELL PEPPERS
Benefit: Improved immune function
Substitutes: Carrots, sweet potatoes, watermelon
All peppers are loaded with antioxidants, but none so much as the brightly colored reds, yellows, and oranges. These colors result from carotenoids concentrated in the flesh of the peppers, and it’s these same carotenoids that give tomatoes, carrots, and grapefruits their healthy hues. The range of benefits provided by these colorful pigments include improved immune function, better communication between cells, protection against sun damage, and a diminished risk of several types of cancer. And if you can take the heat, try cooking with chili peppers. The bell pepper cousins are still loaded with carotenoids and vitamin C, but have the added benefit of capsaicins, temperature-raising phytochemicals that have been shown to fight headache and arthritis pain as well as boost metabolism.

ALMONDS
Benefit: Improved memory
Substitutes: Walnuts, pecans, peanuts, sesame seeds, flaxseeds
An ounce of almonds—or about 23 nuts—a day provides nearly 9 grams of heart-healthy oleic acid; that’s more than the amounts found in peanuts, walnuts, or cashews. This monounsaturated fat is known to be responsible for a flurry of health benefits, the most recently discovered of which is improved memory. Rats in California were better able to navigate a maze the second time around if they’d been fed oleic acid, and there’s no reason to assume that the same treatment won’t help you navigate your day-to-day life. If nothing else, snacking on the brittle nuts will take your mind off your hunger. Nearly a quarter of an almond’s calories come from belly-filling fiber and protein. That’s why, when researchers at Purdue fed study participants nuts or rice cakes, those who ate the nuts felt full for an hour and a half longer than the rice cake group did.

Bonus Tip: Before you go out to eat, grab a handful of almonds; it could help keep your hunger at bay.

Welcome the New Year with these few changes, so you can enjoy a Healthier You!

Holiday Promotions

2009-12-18T09:49:00.000-08:00

Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road #305

Jacksonville, FL 32216

(904) 448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Happy Holidays!!!

Give the Gift of Health this holiday season!
For the month of December HPJAX is offering Buy One Get One Gift Certificates! That's 2 Hours of Services for just $80!

We treat: Muscular Pain, Fertility & Female Health, Headaches/Migraines, Stress, Autism, Common Cold and Flu symptoms, Digestive Problems, Autoimmune Diseases, Pregnancy challenges, Addictions, and many other Health Challenges!

We offer: Acupuncture, Rehabilitative Massage Therapies, Wellness Counseling, Infrared Sauna sessions, and EFT sessions!

We accept Cash, Checks, MC, and Visa

This offer good thru December only! Call now!
(904) 448-0046

Have A Healthy and Happy Holiday Season!!

Staying Healthy this Winter with Acupuncture

2009-12-11T09:38:00.000-08:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture Newsletter
December 2009

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT

Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC3840
Belfort Road, Suite 305Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Recharge Your Battery this Winter with Acupuncture

If you feel tired and drained, you are not alone. "Lack of energy" is one of the top five complaints that doctors hear in their offices. According to Oriental medicine, the cold months of winter are the perfect time to recharge your battery and generate vital energy or Qi - in order to live, look, and feel your best.The ancient Chinese believed that human beings should live in harmony with the natural cycles of their environment. The cold and darkness of winter urges us to slow down. This is the time of year to reflect on health, replenish energy and conserve strength.
Winter is ruled by the Water element, which is associated with the Kidneys, Bladder and Adrenal Glands. The Kidneys are considered the source of all energy or Qi within the body. They store all of the reserve Qi in the body so that it can be used in times of stress and change, or to heal, prevent illness, and age gracefully. During the winter months it is important to nurture and nourish our Kidney Qi. It is the time where this energy can be most easily depleted.
Our bodies are instinctively expressing the fundamental principles of winter: rest, reflection, conservation and storage. The Nei Ching, an ancient Chinese classic, advises people to go to sleep early and rise late, after the sun's rays have warmed the atmosphere a bit. This preserves your own Yang Qi for the task of warming in the face of cold.Eating warm hearty soups, whole grains, and roasted nuts help to warm the bodys core and to keep us nourished. Sleep early, rest well, stay warm, and expend a minimum quantity of energy.Seasonal acupuncture treatments in winter serve to nurture and nourish kidney Qi which can greatly enhance the body's ability to thrive in times of stress, aid in healing, prevent illness and increase vitality.
Call now for more information or to schedule your seasonal tune-up.

Here are some dietary suggestions that can lead to an increase in vitality and radiant health:

Water - The Kidneys are associated with the Water element. Drink ample water, at room temperature, throughout the day.
Kidney Shaped Foods - Black beans and kidney beans are excellent examples of kidney shaped foods that nourish and benefit Kidney Qi.
Blue and Black Foods - The colors blue and black correspond to the Water element of the Kidneys and are thought to strengthen the Water element. Include blueberries, blackberries, mulberry and black beans in your diet.
Seeds - Flax, pumpkin, sunflower and black sesame seeds relate to fertility and growth which is governed by Kidney Qi.
Nuts - Walnuts and chestnuts have been found to be especially effective for increasing Kidney Qi.
Vegetables - Dark, leafy green vegetables are the best choice for Kidney Qi. Other Kidney Qi boosting veggies include asparagus, cucumbers and celery.

Natural Options for the Flu

Did you know that tamiflu, a drug used to treat flu symptoms, is derived from star anise, an anti-viral plant that has been used by Oriental medicine herbalists for centuries? When it comes to staying healthy during the flu season, Oriental medicine has a lot to offer.

Acupuncture for Prevention - Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can prevent colds and flus by building up the immune system with just a few needles inserted into key points along the body's energy pathways. These points are known for strengthening the circulation of blood and energy and for consolidating the outer defense layers of the skin and muscle (Wei Qi) so that germs and viruses cannot enter through them. Acupuncture to Get Better Faster - If you've already happened to catch that cold, acupuncture and herbal medicine can also help with the chills, sniffles, sore throat or fever in a safe, non-toxic way that doesn't 't bombard your body with harmful antibiotics.

Acupuncture does not interfere with Western medical treatment. On the contrary, it provides a welcome complement to it in most cases, and with its emphasis on treating the whole person, recovery time for illness is often shortened.Herbal Medicine - There is a one thousand year old Chinese herbal formula that forms a handy complement to these immune-boosting treatments and it is elegantly entitled The Jade Windscreen Formula. It is made up of just three herbs: Radix Astragalus, Atractylodis Macrocephalae, and Radix Ledebouriellae. These three powerful herbs combine together to tonify the immune system and fortify the exterior of the body so that you can fight off wind-borne viruses and bacteria.

From an Eastern perspective, black beans are warming in nature. They are thought to tonify the Kidney Qi and nourish Yin and Blood.From a Western perspective, black beans are rich in antioxidants and an excellent source of protein, folate, iron and fiber.

Kidney Qi Boosting Black Bean SoupIngredients: 1 pound black beans1 bay leaf1 large onion, slicedSalt to tasteA few cloves of chopped garlic1 teaspoon dry mustard powder1 cup dry sherry (not cooking sherry)

Instructions:

1. Pick over beans to remove any dirt, stones or foreign objects. Wash well, then soak for 8 hours in ample cold water.
2. Drain beans and cover with a generous amount of fresh water. Bring to a boil over high heat in a large saucepan with the bay leaf. Skim off foam, lower heat, and simmer, partially covered, until beans are just tender, about 1 hour.
3. Add onion and continue to cook until onion becomes extremely soft, about 1 more hour.
4. Add salt to taste and garlic. Continue to cook, adding a little boiling water if necessary, until beans are very soft, about 1-2 hours more.
5. Remove bay leaf and turn off heat. Ladle beans in batches into a blender or food processor and puree, or use an immersion blender and puree soup directly in the saucepan.
6. Add dry mustard powder and dry sherry. Correct seasoning. Reheat and serve, adding any garnishes you wish, such as slices of lemon or freshly chopped herbs.

Call now for your tune up!

Stress Management

2009-11-30T15:22:00.000-08:00

Are You SAD?

Stress... we all deal with it in some form or fashion. At it’s best it can make us tired, grumpy, and feeling as if we’ve “had it up to here.”
At it’s worst, it can cause lack of motivation, life-altering anxiety and nervousness, and serious sadness and depression. The best way to banish stress is to take proactive measures.
Here are a few things you can do to decrease the the stress in your life, and restore inner peace and wellbeing.

• Play!
Too often we get caught up with work and obligations, and forget to do the things that truly bring us joy. Schedule one thing you truly enjoy doing at least two times per week.

• Laugh.
Research has shown that laughter has immense stress relieving benefits. Read a funny book, watch a comedian on television, or hang out with some funny friends.

• Embrace silence.
Most of us are unaware of the constant noise in our lives, which can be stressful. Allocate 30 minutes per day as noise-free. This may sound difficult, but it’s as easy as turning off the television or radio while you get ready for the day.

• Meditate.
When you practice mediation your heart rate and breathing slow down, your blood pressure normalizes, and you produce less of the stress hormone cortisol. There are several different kinds of meditation, and many books and tapes available to help guide you through this process.

• Exercise.
When we exercise our bodies, we strengthen the stress-fighting systems. Make a point of exercising every day, for at least 30 minutes.

• Eat a balanced diet.
You can help your body avoid increased stress by eating certain foods. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, and be sure to eat a good balance of grains, fruits and vegetables, protein, and dairy.

• Get your regular massage therapy.
Massage helps to increase circulation and rid your body of toxins. Both of these are very important when it comes to fighting stress!

Acupuncture for Autoimmune Disease

2009-11-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture Newsletter
November 2009
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT

Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305Jacksonville, FL 32216

904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Treating Autoimmune Disease with Acupuncture

Over 50 million Americans suffer from autoimmune disease; an autoimmune disease occurs when the bodys immune system attacks healthy tissue. Autoimmune disorders include Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, thyroid disease, Addison's disease, pernicious anemia, celiac disease, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis and GuillainBarré syndrome. Due to the complexity of treating autoimmune disorders, integrative medicine solutions including acupuncture and Oriental medicine have received much attention as successful therapies in their treatment. Acupuncture is specifically noted for its use in pain relief, regulating the immune system, managing symptoms and improving quality of life.What Causes Autoimmune Disease?Under normal conditions, an immune response cannot be triggered against the cells of one's own body. In certain cases, however, immune cells make a mistake and attack the very cells that they are meant to protect. This can lead to a variety of autoimmune diseases. They encompass a broad category of over 100 diseases in which the person's immune system attacks his or her own tissue.The exact mechanisms causing these changes are not completely understood, but bacteria, viruses, toxins, and some drugs may play a role in triggering an autoimmune process in someone who already has a genetic (inherited) predisposition to develop such a disorder. It is theorized that the inflammation initiated by these agents, toxic or infectious, somehow provokes in the body a "sensitization" (autoimmune reaction) in the involved tissues.As the disease develops vague symptoms start to appear, such as joint and muscle pain, general muscle weakness, possible rashes or low-grade fever, trouble concentrating, or weight loss. The following symptoms may point toward something being wrong: numbness and tingling in hands and feet, dry eyes, hair loss, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, or repeated miscarriages can also be caused by an autoimmune response.

How Acupuncture Treats Autoimmune Disorders

According to Oriental medicine, autoimmune disorders occur when there is imbalance within the body. Imbalance can come from an excess or deficiency of yin and yang that disrupts the flow of qi, or vital energy, through the body. Acupuncture is used to help the body restore balance, treating the root of the disorder, while specifically addressing the symptoms that are unique to each individual.Clinical research has shown that acupuncture causes physical responses in nerve cells, the pituitary gland, and parts of the brain. These responses can cause the body to release proteins, hormones, and brain chemicals that control a number of body functions. It is proposed that, by these actions, acupuncture affects blood pressure, body temperature and the immune system.In addition to acupuncture, your treatment program to manage your autoimmune disorder may involve a combination of therapies including stress reducing exercises, moderate physical activity, herbal medicine, nutritional support and bodywork.To learn more about how acupuncture can safely and effectively be incorporated into care for people with an autoimmune disorder, please call for a consultation today.

Acupuncture Effective for Crohn's Disease

In a study published in the journal, Digestion, acupuncture was found effective for treating Crohn's disease.Crohn's disease is an autoimmune disease which involves chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The main symptoms of Crohn's disease are abdominal pain, fever, fatigue and persistent, watery diarrhea. Symptoms range from mild to severe, and can come and go with periods of flare-ups.In this German study, 51 patients with mild to moderately active Crohn's disease had a decrease in disease activity after receiving 10 sessions of acupuncture. Study members also showed an improvement in general well-being and reported an improvement in quality of life.

Source: Joos S, Brinkhaus B, Maluche C, Maupai N, Kohnen R, Kraehmer N, Hahn EG, Schuppan D. Acupuncture and moxibustion in the treatment of active Crohn's disease: a randomized controlled study. Digestion. 2004;69(3):131-9.

Acupuncture for Athletes

2009-11-11T12:29:00.000-08:00

Acupuncture for Athletes
This Great Article was taken from Acufinder.com and was written by Diane Joswick, L.Ac., MSOM

All athletes and coaches are involved in a constant search for ways to improve performance and gain a competitive edge over their rivals. Many are finding that acupuncture can often provide that edge.By following the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), an acupuncture treatment can strengthen body function and restore internal harmony and balance. Professional sports teams and top athletes regularly have an acupuncturist on staff to treat injuries and to keep them performing at their peak.Some of the best Olympic athletes are incorporating acupuncture into their wellness programs. China's most popular sportsman, the 7 foot 6 inch China basketball center, Yao Ming, used acupuncture and Oriental medicine to help him recover after undergoing surgery on his ankle in April, 2007.Chinese swimmer, Wang Qun, was photographed doing some last minute training in Beijing with round marks on her back from an acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine treatment. The marks on the swimmers back were caused by cupping. Cupping is a technique in which a glass cup or bamboo jar is suctioned onto the body. It is used to relieve muscle pain, especially back pain from stiffness or injury; and to clear congestion in the chest, which can occur with common colds and influenza.

Studies on Acupuncture to Enhance Athletic PerformanceStudies have shown that acupuncture has measurable effects on the flow of blood to certain areas of the body, which could in turn boost athletic performance. One such study conducted at the Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine involved athletes running 5,000 meters, and afterwards sitting for acupuncture treatments before they had a chance to catch their breath. The heart rates of the athletes who received the treatments recovered more quickly than those in the control group.

Another study published in the American Journal of Acupuncture measured the effects of acupuncture on anaerobic threshold and work capacity during exercise in healthy young males. Researchers found that individuals in the acupuncture treatment group had higher maximal exercise capacity and were able to perform higher workloads at the onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA) than individuals in the placebo group. The individuals that received acupuncture also had lower heart rates.Acupuncture is well known for its effectiveness in reducing most types of pain, including sports-related injuries.Acupuncture can be used to help decrease swelling, spasms and inflammation. Additionally, it can be used to control pain, increase range of motion and help promote healing. Because of its broad range of applications, acupuncture can be used during any of the phases of injury. The focus is not only to treat the injury but also to treat any underlying conditions that may predispose an individual to injuries. This is especially important when treating chronic or recurrent injuries that interfere with life activities or athletic performance.

Injuries occurring from sports are mostly due to trauma or overuse syndromes involving the musculoskeletal system and its soft tissues. Trauma to these soft tissues, including ligaments, tendons and muscles are generally the result from falls, blows, sprains/strains, collisions, compressions crushing and disruptions of the healing processes due to inflammation.

Some Commonly Treated Sports Injuries:

Muscle PullNeck Pain

Shoulder Impingement

Tennis Elbow

Lower Back Strain

Groin Pull

Hamstring Strain

Runner's Knee

Shin Splints

Ankle Sprain

Achilles Tendonitis

Arch Pain

If you have suffered an injury, want to avoid surgery, or would like to speed your post surgical recovery, acupuncture can help.

Flex Spending and Health Savings Accounts cover Alternative Medicine

2009-10-29T11:48:00.000-07:00

Use Your Health Savings, Flexible Spending or Medical Savings Account forAcupuncture, Massage and More

Julee Miller, AP, DOM,LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville
3840 Belfort Road #305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
(904) 448-0046/ www.hpjax.com

The year is almost over and now is the time to look into getting a
flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), or medical savings account (MSA).

Did you know that you can use these accounts for a variety of things…including Acupuncture, Therapeutic Massage, Natural Healing and Hydrotherapy?

Based on the federal tax code, a qualified expense “must be to alleviate or prevent a physical or mental defect or illness.”

If you’re like the majority of our clients, you deal with a host of conditions that cause/contribute to chronic pain, stress, and other issues affecting your quality of life. In order for Acupuncture, or Therapeutic Massage to be covered, there are a few steps you’ll need to take:

1.) Get a prescription for manual therapies and/or hydrotherapy. You’ll need a prescription for these for it to count as a qualified medical expense. Talk to your medical practitioner (any healthcare provider who can write a prescription). The prescription makes it medically necessary and should be covered.
Make sure the prescription contains the proper information. The prescription should contain three pieces of information: Length of treatment, duration, reason for prescribing therapies.

2.) Schedule your appointment. You won’t need to bring your prescription with you.

3.) Get a “medical receipt” for your session. When you check in, let us know that you’ll need the receipt to submit. We’ll give you a receipt that has the documentation you need (such as insurance classification code and description of the therapeutic service). We can either print the receipt or e-mail it to you. And remember that even though an expense is approved, you could still get audited by the IRS. So keep your written prescription and your FSA debit or credit card statement.

If you don’t have an FSA or an HSA and are wondering what they are, here are some broad definitions:

A flexible spending account (FSA) is a tax-advantaged financial account that allows an employee to set aside a portion of his or her earnings to pay for qualified expenses, most commonly for medical expenses, and is offered through an employer’s cafeteria plan. Money deducted from an employee’s pay into an FSA is not subject to payroll taxes, resulting in a substantial payroll tax savings. The medical expense FSA (also medical FSA or health FSA), is similar to a health savings account (HSA), but medical FSAs are commonly offered with more traditional health plans. With most FSA, you must use up your funds each year.

An HSA is a tax-advantaged medical savings account available to people who are enrolled in a high deductible health plan. The funds contributed to the account are not subject to federal income tax at the time of deposit. HSAs are owned by the individual, and funds may be used to pay for qualified medical expenses at any time without federal tax liability. Unlike an FSA, funds roll over to the next year if not spent.If you don’t have one of these accounts, look into them now and reap the benefits!Health Savings of America US Govt GSA info

Acupuncture and Menopause

2009-10-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture Newsletter
October 2009

Julee Miller AP, DOM, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046 /www.hpjax.com

Acupuncture and Menopause: Creating Physical and Emotional Health with Acupuncture

With its close understanding of the female body, Oriental medicine has always addressed the special needs of women throughout their lives. Menopause, in particular, is an area in which Oriental Medicine shines. Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine have the ability to detect energetic changes that occur in the body and quickly relieve uncomfortable symptoms that accompany the onset of menopause.

What is Menopause?
Menopause is a transitional period marking the cessation of ovulation in a woman’s body. Most women stop menstruating between the ages of 48 and 52, but symptoms can begin as early as 35. Symptoms vary from mild to severe, and are brought on as our bodies try to adapt to decreasing amounts of estrogen. Symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, fatigue, mood swings, memory loss, vaginal dryness, headaches, joint pain, and weight gain.

From an Eastern Perspective
According to Oriental Medical theory, menopause occurs when a woman’s body begins to preserve blood and energy in order to sustain her. The kidney is the organ system in Oriental Medicine that is viewed as the root of reproduction, vitality and longevity. Menopause signifies the depletion of the fertility essence stored within the kidneys. Blood and essence from the kidneys are conserved and cycled through the body to nourish the woman’s spirit and extend her longevity. Thus, in Oriental Medicine, menopause is seen as true change in life from mother to enlightened and wise being.

Treating Menopause with Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Few areas of women’s health stir up as much confusion and debate as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), which is normally started when the first symptoms of menopause appear. While HRT may alleviate hot flashes and prevent osteoporosis, they may also increase the risk of breast, ovarian and uterine cancer, and have a number of significant side-effects. But HRT isn’t the only solution, Oriental medicine has long recognized that health and vitality can be sustained over a woman’s lifetime by restoring balance within the body and supporting the natural production of essential hormones.

Lifestyle and Dietary Instructions
Menopause patients are encouraged to maintain a healthy weight and to follow a diet with a high content of raw foods, fruits and vegetables to stabilize blood sugar. Some foods may exacerbate hot flashes or increase mood swings; steer clear of dairy products, red meats, alcohol, sugar, spicy foods, caffeine, and don’t smoke. Lastly, try to eliminate stress, tension and anxiety or learn techniques to cope with stress so that you can diminish the effects that it has on your body and mind. With support from Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine along with small changes in lifestyle and diet, menopause can be a time of a revival of vital energy and an opportunity for personal growth. Please call with any questions or to schedule a consultation.

Study on Acupuncture for Hot Flashes

Acupuncture reduces nighttime hot flashes caused by menopause, according to a study published in the journal, Fertility and Sterility. Researchers found that seven weeks of acupuncture treatment reduced the severity of nighttime hot flashes by twenty-eight percent among menopausal women compared with a six percent decrease among women who had a sham acupuncture treatment.

The effects of acupuncture vs. a sham acupuncture treatment on the severity and frequency of nighttime hot flashes were compared. Taking part in the study were twenty-nine menopausal women experiencing at least seven moderate to severe hot flashes per day.

All of the women underwent nine treatments from trained acupuncturists in sessions over seven weeks. Twelve of the women received real acupuncture using points selected to target hot flashes and sleepiness. The rest of the women received a sham acupuncture treatment using non-penetrating needles at random acupuncture channel points.

Throughout the study, the women reported the number and severity of their hot flashes. The results showed that nighttime hot flash severity decreased significantly (twenty-eight percent) among the women who received acupuncture vs. a six percent drop among the women who got the sham treatment. However, they did not see a similar finding in the frequency of nighttime hot flashes between the two groups.

Researcher Mary Huang, M.S., of Stanford University, and colleagues say the results suggest acupuncture deserves further study as an alternative treatment for menopausal hot flashes. Source:Huang, M. Fertility and Sterility, September 2006; Vol. 86: pp. 700-710. News release, American Society of Reproductive Medicine.

Cold and Flu Season: Boost your Vit. D levels now

2009-10-01T07:46:00.000-07:00

In light of the upcoming Cold and Flu Season, I've come across some valuable information on the importance of Vitamin D in prevention and treatment of the cold and flu as well as numerous other chronic diseases. Please take a look at what Dr. Joseph Mercola, D.O. and board certified Family Practioner has to say on the subject (for more information please go to www.mercola.com).

Have a Happy and Healthy Season,

Dr. Julee Miller AP, DOM,LMT

Dr. Mercola's Comments:

As the advent of the experimental swine flu vaccine program draws near, I want to highlight the information coming out that confirms the importance of having sufficient vitamin D levels in order to limit your chances of contracting the swine flu, or any other influenza for that matter.
Dr. Cannell, who is a leader in the field of vitamin D research and education, points out that the CDC unwittingly supports the theory that your vitamin D levels likely play an equally important role in the swine flu as in other types of seasonal flu.
According to the CDC’s statistics, the H1N1 flu has killed 36 children in U.S., and of those, almost two-thirds had either epilepsy, cerebral palsy, or some other neurodevelopmental condition like mental retardation.
All of these neurological conditions are associated with childhood vitamin D deficiency, Dr. Cannell observed, which could also have made them far more susceptible to flu complications.

The Connection Between Your Vitamin D Levels and Contracting the Flu
Previously, Dr. Cannell has published a very credible hypothesis that explains the seasonal nature of the flu.
His findings were first published in the journal Epidemiology and Infection two years ago, followed up with another study published in the Virology Journal last year.
His hypothesis was then confirmed by another study -- the largest and most nationally representative of its kind to date -- that involved about 19,000 Americans. It too found that people with the lowest blood vitamin D levels reported having significantly more recent colds or cases of the flu.
The positive correlation between lower vitamin D levels and increased risk of upper respiratory tract infections was even more pronounced in individuals with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Part of the explanation is that vitamin D creates over 200 antimicrobial peptides in your body that serve as natural broad-spectrum antibiotics, so when your vitamin D levels fall, you also reduce your natural capacity to ward off colds, influenza and other respiratory infections.
During flu seasons, vitamin D levels in your blood are typically at their lowest point due to lack of exposure to sunshine.

At least four other recent studies show this inverse association between lower respiratory tract infections and 25(OH)D levels. That is, the higher your vitamin D level, the lower your risk of contracting colds, flu, and other respiratory tract infections:
A 2007 study suggests higher vitamin D status enhances your immunity to microbial infections. They found that subjects with vitamin D deficiency had significantly more days of absence from work due to respiratory infection than did control subjects.
A 2009 study on vitamin D deficiency in newborns with acute lower respiratory infection confirmed a strong, positive correlation between newborns' and mothers' vitamin D levels. Over 87 percent of all newborns and over 67 percent of all mothers had vitamin D levels lower than 20 ng/ml, which is a severe deficiency state. Newborns with vitamin D deficiency appear to have an increased risk of developing ALRI, and since the child’s vitamin D level strongly correlates with its mother’s, the researchers recommend that all mothers optimize their vitamin D levels during pregnancy, especially in the winter months, to safeguard their babies' health.
A similar Indian study published in 2004 also reported that vitamin D deficiency in infants significantly raised their odds ratio for having severe ALRI.
Another 2009 report in the journal Pediatric Research stated that infants and children appear more susceptible to viral rather than bacterial infections when deficient in vitamin D. And that, based on the available evidence showing a strong connection between vitamin D, infections, and immune function in children, vitamin D supplementation may be a valuable therapy in pediatric medicine.
Most American Children and Teenagers are Vitamin D Deficient
It’s been shown that vitamin D deficiency in American teens is very common. According to one recent study, only 25 percent of more than 3,500 teenagers, aged 12 to 19, had levels higher than 26 ng/ml, and 25 percent had levels lower than 15 ng/ml, which is a severe deficiency state.
And in another study that included 6,000 American kids between the ages of one to 21, 9 percent had vitamin D levels less than 15 ng/mL, and 70 percent had less than 30 ng/mL.
As you may recall, the optimal level of vitamin D is far higher than the conventionally recommended level of 30 ng/ml.
Ranges calculated based on the values of healthy people in tropical or subtropical parts of the world, where they are receiving healthy sun exposures, shows that your optimal vitamin D level is likely to be in the 50-65 ng/ml range.
Canada Leads the Pack, Studying Vitamin D’s Impact on Swine Flu
After studying the role of vitamin D in severe seasonal influenza, Canada’s Public Health Agency (PHAC) has confirmed that it will now adapt their research to investigate the role of vitamin D in protection against swine flu.
Unfortunately, it may take years before we see the results of their findings, and in the meantime, little or nothing will be done to promote vitamin D by conventional medicine.
I strongly suggest you don’t wait for their results to come in, as there is already abundant evidence showing that your vitamin D levels play a role in your likelihood of getting the flu.
Also, let’s not forget the fact that there is also abundant evidence showing that flu vaccines do NOT protect you from the flu, and one recent study found it had no impact on pediatric flu-related hospitalizations or doctor visits during the flu seasons studied. In fact, the researchers concluded that "significant influenza vaccine effectiveness could not be demonstrated for any season, age, or setting."
In addition, a systematic review of 51 studies involving 260,000 children age 6 to 23 months also found no evidence that the flu vaccine is any more effective than a placebo.
So if hedging bets, I would bet that optimizing your vitamin D levels will offer far greater advantages and protection than getting a flu shot – whether it’s a seasonal flu vaccine or a swine flu vaccine.
You Can Use Vitamin D to Treat the Flu, Too
If you were to maintain your vitamin D levels within the optimal range of 50-65 ng/ml, you would likely avoid being affected during the cold and flu season entirely.
That said, if you are coming down with flu-like symptoms and have not been on vitamin D you can take doses of 50,000 units a day for three days to treat the acute infection. Some researchers like Dr. Cannell believe the dose could even be as high as 1,000 units per pound of body weight for three days.
Ultimately, your best bet – not just for cold and flu prevention, but for the prevention of an astounding number of common and often chronic diseases – is to maintain healthy levels of vitamin D year-round.
To find out even more important information about vitamin D, I strongly recommend you watch my one-hour free vitamin D lecture along with my video on vitamin D’s role in flu prevention.

PLEASE REALIZE THAT VITAMIN D IS A FAT SOLUBLE VITAMIN SO YOU NEED TO TAKE IT WITH FOOD THAT CONTAINS FAT!
IT IS NOT WATER SOLUBLE. THAT MEANS IF THERE IS NO FAT BEING DIGESTED WITH IT IT WILL NOT BE ABSORBED.

Stretching for Golfer's Elbow

2009-09-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

Stretching for Golfers
By: Julee Miller, AP, DOM, LMT, BS
(904) 448-0046/ http://www.hpjax.com/

Stretching is one of the most under-utilized techniques for improving athletic performance and getting rid of those annoying sports injuries. Don't make the mistake of thinking that something as simple as stretching won't be effective. Golf swing flexibility is critical to making a full turn with minimal effort, and keeping the stress on your lower back to a minimum. Simple stretches performed regularly will keep you on the golf course all year-round.

Golfer’s Elbow: By far the most common cause of golfers elbow is overuse. Any action which places a repetitive and prolonged strain on the forearm muscles, coupled with inadequate rest, will tend to strain and overwork those muscles.
There are also many other causes, like a direct injury, such as a bump or fall onto the elbow. Poor technique will contribute to the condition, such as using ill-fitted equipment, like golf clubs, tennis racquets, work tools, etc. While poor levels of general fitness and conditioning will also contribute.
Symptoms:Pain is the most common and obvious symptom associated with golfers elbow. Pain is most often experienced on the inside of the upper forearm, but can also be experienced anywhere from the elbow joint to the wrist.
Weakness, stiffness and a general restriction of movement are also quite common in sufferers of golfers elbow. Even tingling and numbness can be experienced.
Prevention:There are a number of preventative techniques which will help to prevent golfers elbow, including bracing and strapping, modifying equipment, taking extended rests and even learning new routines for repetitive activities. The following preventative steps will help you avoid this sport-limiting injury and allow you to remain on the golf course painfree:
Before any activity be sure to thoroughly warm up all the muscles and tendons which will be used during your sport or activity.
Flexible muscles and tendons are extremely important in the prevention of most strain or sprain injuries. When muscles and tendons are flexible and supple, they are able to move and perform without being over stretched. If however, your muscles and tendons are tight and stiff, it is quite easy for those muscles and tendons to be pushed beyond their natural range of movement. When this happens, strains, sprains, and pulled muscles occur. To keep your muscles and tendons flexible and supple, it is important to undertake a structured stretching routine.

How to Stretch
Based on the research, the best time to stretch is either after a workout, when the soft tissues are warm and pliable, or as a stand-alone workout that won’t be followed by anything powerful or intense. For best results warm up lightly in a way that gently introduces your muscles to the upcoming activity, and save your stretching for after the activity is over. On “off” days, or “stretch only” days begin with a warm up walk of about 5 minutes. Then you may begin 5-10 minutes of stretching before you perform your bike/swim/run workout. All stretches are done SLOWLY, without bouncing. Hold each stretch 10-30 seconds. Go to the point you feel mild tension, relax as you hold the stretch. The feeling of tension should subside as you hold the position. If it does not subside, ease off slightly and find a degree of tension that is comfortable.

Breathing
Should be slow, rhythmical and under control. Exhale as you perform the stretch, then breath slowly as you hold each stretch. DO NOT hold your breath- your muscles require oxygen in order to allow them to elongate. If a stretch prevents you from breathing- ease off and reduce the stretch.

Why Stretch?
WStretching, because it relaxes your mind and tunes up your body, and should be a part of your daily life. You will find that regular stretching will reduce muscle tension, increase range of motion, prevent injuries, prepare you for activity, develop body awareness, promotes circulation, and just feel good. Proper stretching means stretching within your own limits, relaxed, and without comparisons.

By making the most of each training session, listening to your body, stretching, and utilizing your Health Care Team (Physician, PT, Acupuncturist, Massage Therapist) effectively, you can recover at infinitely quicker rates to remain in, or return to, the sport you love.
For further information please contact: Julee Miller AP, DOM, LMT (904) 448-0046/ jmacupunture@hpjax.com

Good Health. Good Sports. Good Life.

Acupuncture for Headaches

2009-09-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture Newsletter
September 2009

Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT

Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046

Acupuncture for Headaches

Headaches are extremely common. While everyone experiences an occasional headache, statistics show that 1 out of 6 people suffer from chronic headaches. Acupuncture can effectively relieve headaches, as well as treat their underlying causes. In fact, headaches are one of the conditions most commonly seen in acupuncture clinics today. It can offer powerful relief without the side effects that prescription and over-the-counter drugs can cause. Headaches that can be treated with acupuncture include migraines, tension headaches, headaches occurring around the menstrual cycle, sinus headaches and stress-related headaches.

How Acupuncture Treats Headaches: Many variables are looked at in order to properly diagnose and successfully treat headaches. Each individual is treated differently depending on their unique symptoms. Some of the factors that will determine what acupuncture points and other treatment techniques are used include: what triggers the headaches; the location, frequency and intensity of the headaches; the quality of the pain; the time of day that they occur; what helps the headaches and what makes them worse.

Types of Headaches: When treating with acupuncture, headaches are often classified by their location. This is only a broad guideline which needs to be further refined and integrated into the treatment for each individual, but this shows meridians and patterns that affect each area of the head.Top of Head: Liver Meridian (Liver Blood Deficiency, Liver Yang Rising)Sides of Head: Gall-Bladder Meridian (Liver-Yang, Liver-Fire or Liver-Wind Rising)One Side Only: Gall-Bladder Meridian (Liver-Yang or Liver-Fire Rising)Temples: Gall-Bladder Meridian (Liver-Yang, Liver-Fire or Liver-Wind Rising)Behind the Eyes: Liver Meridian (Liver Blood Deficiency, Liver Yang Rising)Forehead: Stomach Meridian (Stomach Deficiency or Stomach-Heat)Back of Head (Occipital): Bladder Meridian (Kidney Deficiency or Damp-Heat in the Bladder) or External WindWhole Head: Kidney-Essence Deficiency or External WindAcupuncture can significantly relieve headaches and is an important component to managing recurring headaches and migraines. If you have any questions, please call for a consultation.

Studies Show that Acupuncture Stops Headaches

Two separate systematic reviews by Cochrane Researchers show that acupuncture is an effective treatment for prevention of headaches and migraines. In each study, the researchers tried to establish whether acupuncture could reduce the occurrence of headaches. One study focused on mild to moderate but frequent "tension-type" headaches, whilst the other focused on more severe but less frequent headaches usually termed migraines. Together the two studies included 33 trials, involving a total of 6,736 patients.Overall, following a course of at least eight weeks, patients treated with acupuncture suffered fewer headaches compared to those who were given only pain killers. In the migraine study, acupuncture was superior to proven prophylactic drug treatments.In one specific study involving 270 patients, acupuncture cut tension headache rates almost in half. Researchers divided the patients who reported similarly severe tension headaches into three groups for the study. Over the project’s eight-week period, one group received traditional acupuncture, one received only minimal acupuncture (needles inserted at non-acupuncture points, and at only shallow levels), and the third group received no treatment.Those receiving the traditional acupuncture reported headache rates of nearly half that of those who received no treatments, suffering 7 fewer days of headaches. The minimal acupuncture group suffered 6.6 fewer days, and the non-acupuncture group suffered 1.5 fewer days. When they received acupuncture after the main study period, the “no treatment” group also reported significantly fewer headache days. The improvements continued for months after the treatments were concluded, rising slightly as time went on.Sources: British Medical Journal, July 2005Acupuncture for tension-type headache. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD007587 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007587Acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2009, Issue 1. Art.No.: CD001218 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001218.pub2

7 Healthy Habits for Headache Sufferers
Diet- Eat regular meals at regular times to avoid your blood sugar from falling too quickly. Also, avoid foods and drinks that are known to trigger headache attacks including processed meats, aged cheese, alcohol, and foods and beverages that contain aspartame.

Sleep- Maintain a regular sleeping schedule, including weekends and vacations.
Stress- Stress is one of the most common headache and migraine triggers. Implement stress reduction techniques into your daily life.
Exercise- Exercise stimulates the body to release endorphins, which are brain chemicals that improve mood and relieve stress, which are known headache triggers.
Headache Diary- Keep a diary of when your headaches occur, along with any triggers, and share the information with your healthcare provider.
See Your Healthcare Provider- Make an appointment with your healthcare provider to specifically discuss your headache.

Be a Partner in Your Headache Care- Be informed, be a participant in your treatment and be an advocate for your headache care.

5 Ways to Relieve Headaches Naturally

Want some natural alternatives to ease your aching head? The Headache PointLarge Intestine 4 is such a powerful acupuncture point for headaches that is often referred to as “the headache point”. It is located on the padded area of your hand between the thumb and index finger, between the first and second metacarpal bones. Massage this point with your thumb on both hands for approximately 30 seconds.

Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil has a calming and soothing effect on the body, and is often used to treat headaches. Rub peppermint essential oil across your forehead and temples to relieve a tension headache or inhale a peppermint steam treatment to treat a sinus headache. Adding 10-15 drops of peppermint oil to a warm bath is another great way to relax, help reduce muscle tension and relieve a headache.

Cayenne PepperResearch suggests that capsaicin can help relieve cluster headaches. In one study, people with cluster headaches rubbed a capsaicin preparation inside and outside their noses on the same side of the head as the headache pain. Within five days, 75 percent reported less pain and fewer headaches.

Feverfew: Feverfew is a medicinal herb that has been used since ancient Greece for swelling and inflammation. Studies have shown that feverfew limits inflammation of blood vessels in the head and can reduce headaches. Feverfew generally takes up to four to six weeks to take effect. Sip tea or take a feverfew supplement daily.

Ginger Tea: Numerous clinical studies have shown that ginger can be used to relieve headaches. Researchers believe it does so by relaxing the blood vessels in the head and diminishing swelling in the brain. It also activates natural opiates in the brain that relieve pain, and it reduces prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing inflammation.

Meet Tamara L Luffy LMT, CNHP

2009-08-19T12:38:00.000-07:00

As I was driving to the clinic this morning, I began thinking of all of the possible topics that I wanted to share in this blog (I mean I was focusing on the road)! I realized that I hadn't really put much information out there about myself! So for anyone interested, here it is!

I grew up about an hour south of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania in a little town called Washington. My older brother and I were afforded the benefits of growing up in the 'country' where we could be gone all day playing in acres of woods, riding motorcycles through the fields, etc.

At the age of 13 I started odd jobs to be able to afford whatever it is that 13 year olds 'need'. Over the years I babysat, tutored, cut grass, worked concession stands, did some remodeling, and made crafts to sell at fairs for extra money.

When I turned 16 I was able to get my first job and find out what my dad had been complaining about all of my life come tax time! I got a job in retail selling clothes and before two years were up I was promoted to an assistant manager position.

I stayed with that position until I went to college and studied Anatomy and Physiology, Psychology, Biology and all of the other fun subjects until I found The World of Natural Medicine in an herbology book. Thus began the journey that I continue on today!

After I completed massage school, I landed a job in Pittsburgh with a new company: Back For Life Inc. I became the Director of Operations for the company which is where I really learned a lot about business. I was responsible for a full time staff of 3 and at any given time 26 independent contractors to provide massage services to the area companies, salons, chiropractors, hospitals, home clients and the Pittsburgh Steelers. On top of that I was also performing the accounting, sales meetings, administrative duties, and providing massage. It was a great learning experience that continued until I felt it was time to work for myself!

At the end of 1999 I began working on my own clients and providing services for The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in their Center for Complementary Medicine Clinic. I continued some of my most rewarding work there until I moved to Jacksonville in 2007 to be with my boyfriend that I had been dating long distance for a year and a half (my husband as of 6/13/09).

After acquiring my florida massage license, my best friend of 10 years moved here from Houston and we began plans to open our Integrative Health Clinic. Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC was born over many late nights with many glasses of wine!

It has taken a lot of work, the help of many wonderful friends and family, and dedication to get to where we are right now....which is with a very fruitful, successful Health clinic where I get to come to work and do my favorite thing: help people!!

Posted by Tamara L Luffy LMT, CNHP

Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia Syndrome by Julee Miller, AP, DOM, LMT

2009-08-12T15:04:00.000-07:00

Qi Mail™The Acupuncture Newsletter
August 2009
Julee Miller AP, DOM, BS, LMT
Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC
3840 Belfort Road, Suite 305Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-448-0046/www.hpjax.com

Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) affects an estimated 2 percent of the population. Conventional therapies are limited in the success of treating this complex and unexplained condition. Current treatment is largely comprised of prescribing different medications for the varying symptoms in a trial and error approach. Research shows that as many as 90 percent of people with fibromyalgia have turned to complimentary and alternative medicine to manage their symptoms. Acupuncture, in particular, has become a popular treatment choice and has shown to be an effective treatment for FMS.What is Fibromyalgia Syndrome?Fibromyalgia is a medically unexplained syndrome characterized by chronic widespread pain, a heightened and painful response to pressure, insomnia, fatigue, and depression. While not all affected persons experience all associated symptoms, the following symptoms commonly occur together:• chronic pain• debilitating fatigue• difficulty sleeping• anxiety and depression• joint stiffness• chronic headaches and jaw pain• difficulty swallowing• dryness in mouth, nose, and eyes• hypersensitivity to odors, bright lights, and loud noises • inability to concentrate (called "fibro fog")• incontinence• irritable bowel syndrome• numbness or tingling in the fingers and feet• painful menstrual cramps• poor circulation in hands and feet (called Raynaud's phenomenon)• restless legs syndromeFibromyalgia is diagnosed when there is a history of widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for a minimum duration of three months and pain when pressure is applied to at least 11 of 18 designated tender points on the body. This condition does not result in any physical damage to the body or its tissues and there are no laboratory tests which can confirm this diagnosis. Symptoms often begin after a physical or emotional trauma, but in many cases there appears to be no triggering event. Women are more prone to develop the disorder than are men, and the risk of fibromyalgia increases with age. From an Eastern PerspectiveThe Oriental medicine theory of pain is expressed in this famous Chinese saying: "Bu tong ze tong, tong ze bu tong" which means "free flow: no pain, no free flow: pain."Pain is seen as a disruption of the flow of Qi within the body. The disruption of Qi that results in fibromyalgia is usually associated with disharmonies of the Liver, Spleen, Kidney and Heart Systems.The Acupuncture TreatmentOriental Medicine does not recognize fibromyalgia as one particular disease pattern. Instead, it aims to treat the specific symptoms that are unique to each individual depending on their constitution, emotional state, intensity and location of their pain, digestive health, sleeping patterns and an array of other signs and symptoms. Therefore, if 10 people are treated with Oriental medicine for fibromyalgia, each of these 10 people will receive a unique, customized treatment with different acupuncture points, different herbs and different lifestyle and dietary recommendations.Because the symptoms of fibromyalgia are highly variable form one person to another, a wide array of traditional and alternative treatments has been shown to be the most effective way of treating this difficult syndrome. A treatment program may include a combination of psychological or behavioral therapies, medications, exercise, acupuncture, herbal medicine and bodywork.If you have fibromyalgia, acupuncture and Oriental medicine may be what you’ve been looking for to ease your symptoms and reclaim your health and vitality. Please call for a consultation today.

Study on Acupuncture and Fibromyalgia
A recent study from the Mayo Clinic found acupuncture helpful in treating the fatigue and anxiety commonly experienced by fibromyalgia patients. In the trial, patients who received acupuncture to counter their fibromyalgia symptoms reported improvement in fatigue and anxiety, among other symptoms. Acupuncture was well tolerated, with minimal side effects.In the double-blind study, Mayo Clinic doctors gave 25 fibromyalgia patients acupuncture, and 25 “sham” acupuncture treatments. Patients received six treatments during the two- to three-week study. Those who received acupuncture treatments reported less fatigue and anxiety one month following after treatment than did the “sham” group."The results of the study convince me there is something more than the placebo effect to acupuncture," says David Martin, M.D., Ph.D., lead author of the acupuncture article and a Mayo Clinic anesthesiologist. "It affirms a lot of clinical impressions that this complementary medical technique is helpful for patients."Dr. Martin says the study demonstrates that acupuncture is helpful, and also proves physicians can conduct a rigorous, controlled acupuncture study. Future research could help physicians understand which medical conditions respond best to acupuncture, how to apply it to best relieve symptoms, and how long patients can expect to their symptoms to decrease after each treatment.Dr. Martin performed the study at Mayo Clinic Rochester with co-authors Ines Berger, M.D.; Christopher Sletten, Ph.D.; and Brent Williams. The study used only two acupuncturists and examined only patients who reported more severe symptoms, offering better experimental control. Still, the Mayo Clinic doctors urged more study to see how acupuncture can best be used in treating fibromyalgia patients.Source: Mayo Clinic (2006, June 13). Acupuncture Relieves Symptoms Of Fibromyalgia, Mayo Clinic Study Finds.

You can help cut your risk significantly by incorporating a few simple lifestyle changes into your daily routines and habits, according to Bob Flaws, author of Curing Fibromyalgia Naturally with Chinese Medicine:

Eliminate processed foods from your diet, especially white sugar and white flour products. These products give our bodies little nutrition and over time can damage our digestion as well as cause obesity, one of the common problems related to fibromyalgia.
Include all unprocessed foods in your diet, such as proteins, complex and unrefined carbohydrates, vegetables, whole grains and legumes.
Eat foods that support the functions of the spleen and stomach. In other words, avoid overly greasy foods, ice cold drinks, alcohol, raw and uncooked foods, hot, peppery foods, coffee, and too much fruit. Avoid daily juice drinks since these are the same as eating a candy bar in the amount of sugar introduced into the body.
Stop drinking sodas. Sodas are acidic in nature and loaded with sugar and chemicals. Sodas are detrimental to both the spleen and the kidneys.
Find some type of exercise that you really enjoy and just do it! Pumping iron is not for everyone. You would probably benefit most from some kind of cardiovascular exercise to keep to blood moving, like swimming, yoga, stretching, and bicycling.
Take a walk every day. If you live with a dog or cat, play with them daily. Animals live in the moment and love to play. This is a great way to break stressful daily routines.
Practice Chinese self massage every morning by stimulating the acupuncture points on the body and limbs to help promote the flow of Qi and blood in the channels.
Buy some relaxation tapes with guided imaging. Learn how to really relax. This means bodily relaxation as well as mental repose. Use these tapes daily for the best results.
Take a look at the old habits and patterns of your life and ask yourself what you can do to make your life better. Take up tasks and hobbies that are interesting to you and break the normal routine of your day.
If you know that you have too much stress in your life, find a solution. This may be finding a new job or new, more supportive relationships. Understand that stress alone can kill you, and if you smoke and consume alcohol to escape stressful situations, you are only fooling yourself.

Recent write up in the Southside Business Men's Club Newsletter

2009-06-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

This post is written by Dr. Julee Miller AP, Dipl of OM, LMT and co-owner of Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC

GETTING TO KNOW YOU
This week we will get to "know" our new member, Julee Miller. Julee joined SBMC January 14, 2009. Her sponsors are Ray Cooney and Jim Cox. She is a Florida native from the St. Petersburg area, has two brothers, one sister, a niece and nephew. She has a Bachelor of Arts (Athletic Training/Sports Medicine) degree from Maryville College in Tennessee, a License in Massage Therapy with certifications in Sports Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Myofascial Release Technique, Deep Tissue Modalities, Reflexology and Reiki. Has a post graduate degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in Houston, Texas with subspecialties in pain management and women's health. Julee has 15 years experience in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and pain management and has worked with professional athletes such as the Pittsburg Steelers and Pirates and Penguins. She traveled to Greece as a member of the 2004 Olympic Massage Therapy team treating all competing athletes. Julee moved to Jacksonville to "take a bite out of the American Pie and open my own wellness clinic with my friend and associate Tamara Luffy offering Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs, Massage Therapy, Wellness Counseling and infrared Sauna Treatments." We concentrate on sports injury treatment, women's health: fertility, menopausal syndrome, hormone imbalances as well as treatment of ADD/ADHD. One of Julee's favorite local restaurants is Caps on the intercoastal and highly recommends their seared Tuna. She also enjoys fresh made sandwiched, Goat cheese, tomatoes and olives. Her favorite weekend activity is boating. When asked what person has had the most influence on her life, Julee replied "I am constantly inspired by those with so little but gives so much. I love it when a person can stop me in my tracks and remind me that it isn't "things", but people that matter and to stop worrying and whining and just open my eyes."

Our Open House was a Success!

2009-05-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

L to R: Dr Nicki, Dr Julee, Tamara, and Jodi Leafer with some
Chamber members in the background.

After many months of networking with great groups in Jacksonville, HPJax had our Open House! Members from The Southside Business Mens Association, the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, and the Manderin Coffee Connect group showed up to learn more about our business and support our place in Jacksonville's small business community.

Dr Julee Miller was providing free auricular (ear) acupuncture and Dr Nicki Anzalone was doing complimentary posture analysis. We had a lot of good food, good people, and great door prizes during the evening. It was a success.......the sky is the limit!

New Clinic Now Open!!!!

2009-05-25T16:23:00.000-07:00

Since this is my first post I thought that I would excitedly tell everyone about our clinic: Health Pointe Jacksonville, LLC! My business partner Julee and I had thrown around the idea of opening a Health and Wellness Clinic using the skills that we have both been perfecting for 15 years. We worked for the same massage company in Pittsburgh some 11 years ago and it was the start of an invaluable and hilarious friendship.

We opened our doors in November of 2008 in Southpoint's 'Medical Mile' in Jacksonville, Florida. We have 5 treatment rooms, our office, waiting room and our Infrared Sauna room. We provide Craniosacral Therapy, Deep Tissue Massage, Reiki, Reflexology, EFT, Acupuncture, and Infrared Sauna Sessions. Julee is specializing in Sports Rehabilitation and Infertility, and I am focusing on Craniosacral and Emotional Freedom Technique with a specialization in Pediatrics.

Since we have opened, it has been a valuable learning experience that I wouldn't give up for anything!