Read below to see how acupuncture treats cardiac conditions as well-for over 3,000 years.
Acupuncturists insert needles into the heart meridian, or pathway, which send a force of energy to the heart increasing its function. A differential diagnosis according to Chinese medicine determines which organs may be contributing to the cardiac condition, as it is usually more than just the heart that is malfunctioning. The kidney, the liver or the lungs may also be malfunctioning and therefore need to be treated with acupuncture in order to improve the cardiac condition.
This is the beauty of Chinese medicine. It is a system that can truly improve organ function.
Click here to read about how one cardiologist prescribes acupuncture.
Thursday, June 11, 2015
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Acupuncture May Be Helpful for Chronic Pain: A Meta-Analysis
This article discusses the widespread problem many Americans suffer from in Chronic Pain. According to the article Chronic Pain- pain anywhere in the body lasting three to six months- affects 100 million American adults and is a top reason why adults go to the doctor and is estimated to be costing Americans $635 billion per year. Chronic Pain often leads people not to pursue active lifestyles in an effort to alleviate the pain and until recently western medicine has been at a loss for drug free approaches to treating Chronic Pain. This is changing however as acupuncture is becoming a much more viable option for millions of Americans suffering from Chronic Pain who are looking to treat the source of the problem rather than just the symptoms. For a long time western medicine dismissed acupuncture as having a placebo effect on patients and insisting that acupuncturists cited bogus studies and science but a bulk of recent research has revealed concrete evidence that acupuncture in rodents stimulates adenosine. Adenosine is a strong pain reliever produced naturally by the body. With the tests being done on rats this also rules out the placebo effect making it clear that acupuncture is a viable and drug free way to treat Chronic Pain.
We treat people for a variety of pain issues every day at Kate Ruma & Associates Acupuncture. Pain is still not well understood by modern medicine, and the usual way of treating it is to simply prescribe pain medication, which only dulls the sensation of pain, it doesn’t treat the source of it. The other option is most often surgery, which may or may not work and will permanently alter the body, sometimes resulting in motor loss. Acupuncture treats pain at its source, helping the body to correct the problem and often helping to avoid unnecessary surgeries. 80-90% of patients will become pain free or have their pain reduced to a tolerable level over the course of their therapy. If you are suffering from chronic pain please contact us, we may be able to help.
Link to Article:
http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/091012
www.kateruma.com
info@kateruma.com
www.linkedin.com/company/kate-ruma-&-associates-acupuncture
www.facebook.com/katerumaassocs
https://twitter.com/KateRumaAssocs
This article discusses the widespread problem many Americans suffer from in Chronic Pain. According to the article Chronic Pain- pain anywhere in the body lasting three to six months- affects 100 million American adults and is a top reason why adults go to the doctor and is estimated to be costing Americans $635 billion per year. Chronic Pain often leads people not to pursue active lifestyles in an effort to alleviate the pain and until recently western medicine has been at a loss for drug free approaches to treating Chronic Pain. This is changing however as acupuncture is becoming a much more viable option for millions of Americans suffering from Chronic Pain who are looking to treat the source of the problem rather than just the symptoms. For a long time western medicine dismissed acupuncture as having a placebo effect on patients and insisting that acupuncturists cited bogus studies and science but a bulk of recent research has revealed concrete evidence that acupuncture in rodents stimulates adenosine. Adenosine is a strong pain reliever produced naturally by the body. With the tests being done on rats this also rules out the placebo effect making it clear that acupuncture is a viable and drug free way to treat Chronic Pain.
We treat people for a variety of pain issues every day at Kate Ruma & Associates Acupuncture. Pain is still not well understood by modern medicine, and the usual way of treating it is to simply prescribe pain medication, which only dulls the sensation of pain, it doesn’t treat the source of it. The other option is most often surgery, which may or may not work and will permanently alter the body, sometimes resulting in motor loss. Acupuncture treats pain at its source, helping the body to correct the problem and often helping to avoid unnecessary surgeries. 80-90% of patients will become pain free or have their pain reduced to a tolerable level over the course of their therapy. If you are suffering from chronic pain please contact us, we may be able to help.
Link to Article:
http://nccam.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/091012
www.kateruma.com
info@kateruma.com
www.linkedin.com/company/kate-ruma-&-associates-acupuncture
www.facebook.com/katerumaassocs
https://twitter.com/KateRumaAssocs
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Free Lecture - $25 Off Initial Consultation & Acupuncture Treatment
Eric St. Laurent Lic Ac will be giving a talk about stress and how acupuncture can help manage it. Attendees will receive a $25 gift certificate towards an initial consult and acupuncture treatment.
Did you know:
The effects of stress can be cumulative, making you sick and shortening your life.
Acupuncture reduces stress hormones, heart rate & blood pressure.
Acupuncture induces a deep sense of relaxation.
Two-thirds of all office visits to family physicians are due to stress related symptoms.
If you are troubled by stress on a regular basis, then you will want to attend this talk!
Where? 180 Mass Ave., Arlington, MA 02474, in the Meeting Room.
When? Wednesday, April 30th, at 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Please call us at 617.372.3960 to solidify your place at this talk. You can also email Info@KateRuma.com to sign up!
Did you know:
The effects of stress can be cumulative, making you sick and shortening your life.
Acupuncture reduces stress hormones, heart rate & blood pressure.
Acupuncture induces a deep sense of relaxation.
Two-thirds of all office visits to family physicians are due to stress related symptoms.
If you are troubled by stress on a regular basis, then you will want to attend this talk!
Where? 180 Mass Ave., Arlington, MA 02474, in the Meeting Room.
When? Wednesday, April 30th, at 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Please call us at 617.372.3960 to solidify your place at this talk. You can also email Info@KateRuma.com to sign up!
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Conversation with Acupuncturist Eric St. Laurent
Eric St. Laurent has joined Kate Ruma & Associates Acupuncture. Recently, Kate asked Eric a few questions about acupuncture and how he came to it. We thought you might be interested in reading some of his responses.
What is the difference between Chinese and Japanese acupuncture?
Japanese acupuncture uses the abdomen as a main diagnostic tool to assess what is wrong with the body and as a feedback mechanism during the treatment. The patient's body systems are checked and the weakest one is treated first to help bring the body back to a state of homeostasis, which allows the body to combat a diseased state better. Japanese styles also utilize a variety of moxibustion techniques that Chinese styles do not use.
What type of cases do you like to treat?
I like working with pain management cases, both internal and external. Whether it is from a temporary situation such as an injury or a long term condition such as chronic migraines or cluster headaches, the only recourse people often have to alleviate their pain is to take medication to mask it. Allowing people to function on smaller dosages or even without any medication at all creates a profound improvement in their lives.
How did you get into acupuncture?
When I was younger I spent a lot of time reading about Taoist philosophy, and it isn't possible to read about the philosophy without references to Chinese medicine. The idea of a medical treatment that used tiny needles to somehow readjust the body fascinated me. Medicine has always been an interesting topic for me, I love the complexity of the living body and all the systems required for it to work properly.
What is your favorite success story?
A friend of mine, after a good bit of encouragement from his wife, gave me a call to ask if I could help with his migraines. He suffered from cluster headaches that would be present for a few months then go away for long periods of time. He was just going to suffer through this headache period but his wife had told him that he should try acupuncture to help manage his headaches. After the first treatment he was only taking half a pain pill, and after the second treatment his headaches stopped.
What did you do before becoming an acupuncturist?
I did quite a few things before I became an acupuncturist. I was a cook, a bike messenger, and an assistant kung fu instructor. I am also ex-military.
Why should people try acupuncture or use acupuncture instead of or in addition to western medicine?
People often find themselves in a position where standard medicine has already done everything it can for them. Acupuncture can help with more medical conditions than it would be helpful to list, a lot of them problems that aren't even resolved with medication. By adding acupuncture to their treatment people often see improvements they didn't think possible otherwise. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a great example here. Acupuncture works great for such a condition. It greatly improves the quality of life for people suffering from it.
What is the difference between Chinese and Japanese acupuncture?
Japanese acupuncture uses the abdomen as a main diagnostic tool to assess what is wrong with the body and as a feedback mechanism during the treatment. The patient's body systems are checked and the weakest one is treated first to help bring the body back to a state of homeostasis, which allows the body to combat a diseased state better. Japanese styles also utilize a variety of moxibustion techniques that Chinese styles do not use.
What type of cases do you like to treat?
I like working with pain management cases, both internal and external. Whether it is from a temporary situation such as an injury or a long term condition such as chronic migraines or cluster headaches, the only recourse people often have to alleviate their pain is to take medication to mask it. Allowing people to function on smaller dosages or even without any medication at all creates a profound improvement in their lives.
How did you get into acupuncture?
When I was younger I spent a lot of time reading about Taoist philosophy, and it isn't possible to read about the philosophy without references to Chinese medicine. The idea of a medical treatment that used tiny needles to somehow readjust the body fascinated me. Medicine has always been an interesting topic for me, I love the complexity of the living body and all the systems required for it to work properly.
What is your favorite success story?
A friend of mine, after a good bit of encouragement from his wife, gave me a call to ask if I could help with his migraines. He suffered from cluster headaches that would be present for a few months then go away for long periods of time. He was just going to suffer through this headache period but his wife had told him that he should try acupuncture to help manage his headaches. After the first treatment he was only taking half a pain pill, and after the second treatment his headaches stopped.
What did you do before becoming an acupuncturist?
I did quite a few things before I became an acupuncturist. I was a cook, a bike messenger, and an assistant kung fu instructor. I am also ex-military.
Why should people try acupuncture or use acupuncture instead of or in addition to western medicine?
People often find themselves in a position where standard medicine has already done everything it can for them. Acupuncture can help with more medical conditions than it would be helpful to list, a lot of them problems that aren't even resolved with medication. By adding acupuncture to their treatment people often see improvements they didn't think possible otherwise. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a great example here. Acupuncture works great for such a condition. It greatly improves the quality of life for people suffering from it.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Help us Protect the Practice of Acupuncture in Massachusetts!
Urgent Request to Contact Legislators
Attention all patients: We need your participation! Please reach out to your legislator (Senator and State Rep) before November 15th and ask them to request that the Joint Committee on Public Health support our bill "An Act Relative to the Practice of Acupuncture", H2051 in the House and S1107 in the Senate. Our testimony on the bill will be heard on November 19th and your calls and emails will influence the outcome.
Who should you contact?
Call or email your Senator and State Rep. Find yours at this link:
https://malegislature.gov/people/findmylegislator
What should you say?
I use acupuncture as an integral part of my healthcare and I am calling to voice my support of Bill# H2051 (House) or S1107 (Senate). If you add your personal experience with acupuncture, it is a plus, but not necessary (The Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Society of Massachusetts is also collecting written testimonials to present to the legislators).
Why should you do this?
This bill seeks to ensure that only licensed acupuncturists with appropriate training are allowed to use acupuncture techniques in Massachusetts. Currently, physical therapists are attempting to utilize acupuncture in their practice by renaming it "dry needling". Unless they are also a Licensed Acupuncturist, they do not have adequate training in order to use this technique in their PT practice. If they are using acupuncture needles, they are practicing acupuncture, which is NOT in their scope of practice.
To find out more about Dry Needling, take a look at the AOMSM Dry Needling Fact Sheet found here:
http://aomsm.org/dryneedlingfactsheet
Thank you, in advance, for your help!
Attention all patients: We need your participation! Please reach out to your legislator (Senator and State Rep) before November 15th and ask them to request that the Joint Committee on Public Health support our bill "An Act Relative to the Practice of Acupuncture", H2051 in the House and S1107 in the Senate. Our testimony on the bill will be heard on November 19th and your calls and emails will influence the outcome.
Who should you contact?
Call or email your Senator and State Rep. Find yours at this link:
https://malegislature.gov/people/findmylegislator
What should you say?
I use acupuncture as an integral part of my healthcare and I am calling to voice my support of Bill# H2051 (House) or S1107 (Senate). If you add your personal experience with acupuncture, it is a plus, but not necessary (The Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Society of Massachusetts is also collecting written testimonials to present to the legislators).
Why should you do this?
This bill seeks to ensure that only licensed acupuncturists with appropriate training are allowed to use acupuncture techniques in Massachusetts. Currently, physical therapists are attempting to utilize acupuncture in their practice by renaming it "dry needling". Unless they are also a Licensed Acupuncturist, they do not have adequate training in order to use this technique in their PT practice. If they are using acupuncture needles, they are practicing acupuncture, which is NOT in their scope of practice.
To find out more about Dry Needling, take a look at the AOMSM Dry Needling Fact Sheet found here:
http://aomsm.org/dryneedlingfactsheet
Thank you, in advance, for your help!
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Acupuncture for Male and Female Infertility & Pregnancy
Fertility Issues
We have helped hundreds of women and men in our clinic become pregnant through acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and moxibustion by improving egg and sperm quality. However, did you know that once women become pregnant we continue to treat them to prevent miscarriage and deal with ailments that consequently arise during pregnancy?
Early Pregnancy / Miscarriage Prevention
It is important, once conception occurs, for most women to have acupuncture at least weekly during the first trimester to secure the pregnancy and prevent miscarriage. Acupuncture prevents miscarriage by keeping progesterone levels steady and by also supplying adequate blood flow to the developing fetus. During pregnancy women often experience nausea, acid reflux, swelling, pain, digestive issues, low energy and high blood pressure. These symptoms can be remedied with treatment as well.
Treatment for Breech Babies
Toward the end of pregnancy, we treat women during week 33 to 35 to turn a baby that is breech. We use an herb called moxa, or mugwort, to stimulate Bladder 67. This acupoint located on the lateral side of the small toe is used because of its ability to stimulate the adrenal glands located above the kidney and give mother and baby enough adrenaline which will turn the baby. This technique is 80 percent effective. Interestingly enough, in other countries, this technique is protocol in order to avoid c-sections, to reduce postpartum recovery times for women and to reduce health care costs. Here is a link to the study:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15280133
End of Pregnancy
At the end of pregnancy, at 37 weeks, we treat women once a week until their due date to in order to prepare them for labor. Treatments help keep babies in the proper position for birth and make for shorter and smoother labors. Also, if the baby has not arrived by the due date we will treat to promote labor. One study included 56 women who were 39.5 to 41 weeks pregnant. (Forty weeks is full term.) Half of the women got three acupuncture sessions, while the other half did not. Seventy percent of the women who got acupuncture went into labor on their own, compared to 50% who received standard care. The women who got acupuncture were also less likely to deliver by cesarean section -- 39% compared to 17%. Here is link to the study:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16966110
In addition to the four points which were used in this study, we also customize the treatment to match each patient's individual constitution.
We have helped many women with various health issues that occur before and during pregnancy. Please let us know if you need our help. Currently, we are accepting new patients.
Call us 617.372.3960 or email us at Info@KateRuma.com with any questions about how Chinese medicine can assist in fertility & pregnancy.
Fertility Issues
We have helped hundreds of women and men in our clinic become pregnant through acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and moxibustion by improving egg and sperm quality. However, did you know that once women become pregnant we continue to treat them to prevent miscarriage and deal with ailments that consequently arise during pregnancy?
Early Pregnancy / Miscarriage Prevention
It is important, once conception occurs, for most women to have acupuncture at least weekly during the first trimester to secure the pregnancy and prevent miscarriage. Acupuncture prevents miscarriage by keeping progesterone levels steady and by also supplying adequate blood flow to the developing fetus. During pregnancy women often experience nausea, acid reflux, swelling, pain, digestive issues, low energy and high blood pressure. These symptoms can be remedied with treatment as well.
Treatment for Breech Babies
Toward the end of pregnancy, we treat women during week 33 to 35 to turn a baby that is breech. We use an herb called moxa, or mugwort, to stimulate Bladder 67. This acupoint located on the lateral side of the small toe is used because of its ability to stimulate the adrenal glands located above the kidney and give mother and baby enough adrenaline which will turn the baby. This technique is 80 percent effective. Interestingly enough, in other countries, this technique is protocol in order to avoid c-sections, to reduce postpartum recovery times for women and to reduce health care costs. Here is a link to the study:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15280133
End of Pregnancy
At the end of pregnancy, at 37 weeks, we treat women once a week until their due date to in order to prepare them for labor. Treatments help keep babies in the proper position for birth and make for shorter and smoother labors. Also, if the baby has not arrived by the due date we will treat to promote labor. One study included 56 women who were 39.5 to 41 weeks pregnant. (Forty weeks is full term.) Half of the women got three acupuncture sessions, while the other half did not. Seventy percent of the women who got acupuncture went into labor on their own, compared to 50% who received standard care. The women who got acupuncture were also less likely to deliver by cesarean section -- 39% compared to 17%. Here is link to the study:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16966110
In addition to the four points which were used in this study, we also customize the treatment to match each patient's individual constitution.
We have helped many women with various health issues that occur before and during pregnancy. Please let us know if you need our help. Currently, we are accepting new patients.
Call us 617.372.3960 or email us at Info@KateRuma.com with any questions about how Chinese medicine can assist in fertility & pregnancy.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Have you ever wondered what Chinese herbal medicine has to offer?
At our clinic, we use Chinese herbs for various conditions and disorders. Here are a few of the most common:
Seasonal allergies & Sinus infections
Digestive disorders (acid reflux, abdominal pain, constipation, etc.)
Male and female infertility
Headaches & Migraines
Anxiety & Depression
Please call us at 617.372.3960 or email Info@Kateruma.com with any questions about how Chinese herbs or acupuncture can improve your health.
At our clinic, we use Chinese herbs for various conditions and disorders. Here are a few of the most common:
Seasonal allergies & Sinus infections
Digestive disorders (acid reflux, abdominal pain, constipation, etc.)
Male and female infertility
Headaches & Migraines
Anxiety & Depression
Please call us at 617.372.3960 or email Info@Kateruma.com with any questions about how Chinese herbs or acupuncture can improve your health.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Tongue Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine
Have you ever wondered why Chinese medical practitioners examine your tongue?
The tongue body, structure, and coating are representative of the state of the body’s organs in Chinese medicine. All of the channels (Heart, Spleen, Liver, Lung etc.) in the body either directly or indirectly reach the tongue; we can obtain information about the qi, blood, yin, and fluids in the body as a result of its examination.
Which parts of the tongue represent which Chinese medical organs?
Here is a map:
What does a normal tongue look like?
It is pale red, with a thin, white tongue coat. It is not dry and does not have excessive moisture on it. The sublingual veins are not dark or distended.
We use tongue diagnosis to aid in our Chinese medical pattern diagnosis:
We look at the tongue body. Is it swollen or thin? Does the tongue have teethmarks? We can determine the state of the body’s qi and blood by observing these aspects. Is the tongue body pale (indicating a qi or blood deficiency) or red (which can indicate heat from various causes). If the edges are squeezed in or curled up, this can indicate some Liver qi stagnation (which can result from stress in your life).
We examine the moisture level of the tongue.
A dry, cracked tongue can indicate diminished fluid levels in the body, blood deficiency, or heat. A tongue which is excessively wet can indicate inefficient fluid metabolism.
We look at the tongue coat color and thickness. A yellow tongue coat indicates heat. A white tongue coat, if thick, can indicate cold in the body.
So take a look at your tongue to look for the size, color, cracks, coating and shape. See if the areas of your tongue correspond with weaknesses in your organs. For example, people with asthma may see a dip in the lung area or those with digestive issues may see a swollen tongue with or without coating to indicate weak spleen and stomach organ systems.
This is just a synopsis of tongue diagnosis in Chinese medicine. For more information, we recommend Barbara Kirschbaum’s Atlas of Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, which is the source we used for this article.
The tongue body, structure, and coating are representative of the state of the body’s organs in Chinese medicine. All of the channels (Heart, Spleen, Liver, Lung etc.) in the body either directly or indirectly reach the tongue; we can obtain information about the qi, blood, yin, and fluids in the body as a result of its examination.
Which parts of the tongue represent which Chinese medical organs?
Here is a map:
What does a normal tongue look like?
It is pale red, with a thin, white tongue coat. It is not dry and does not have excessive moisture on it. The sublingual veins are not dark or distended.
We use tongue diagnosis to aid in our Chinese medical pattern diagnosis:
We look at the tongue body. Is it swollen or thin? Does the tongue have teethmarks? We can determine the state of the body’s qi and blood by observing these aspects. Is the tongue body pale (indicating a qi or blood deficiency) or red (which can indicate heat from various causes). If the edges are squeezed in or curled up, this can indicate some Liver qi stagnation (which can result from stress in your life).
We examine the moisture level of the tongue.
A dry, cracked tongue can indicate diminished fluid levels in the body, blood deficiency, or heat. A tongue which is excessively wet can indicate inefficient fluid metabolism.
We look at the tongue coat color and thickness. A yellow tongue coat indicates heat. A white tongue coat, if thick, can indicate cold in the body.
So take a look at your tongue to look for the size, color, cracks, coating and shape. See if the areas of your tongue correspond with weaknesses in your organs. For example, people with asthma may see a dip in the lung area or those with digestive issues may see a swollen tongue with or without coating to indicate weak spleen and stomach organ systems.
This is just a synopsis of tongue diagnosis in Chinese medicine. For more information, we recommend Barbara Kirschbaum’s Atlas of Chinese Tongue Diagnosis, which is the source we used for this article.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Acupuncture can alleviate anxiety and depression? Of course it can!
It is fantastic that acupuncture is more publicized in the media in the past couple years. However, we do not need a study to tell us that acupuncture can decrease anxiety and improve depression - we see great results in our patients (and not only those who are pregnant) in our clinic first-hand! Call us at 617.372.3960 to schedule an appointment today.
http://www.bostonmagazine.com/health/blog/2013/06/17/new-harvard-research-says-acupuncture-helps-anxiety/
http://www.bostonmagazine.com/health/blog/2013/06/17/new-harvard-research-says-acupuncture-helps-anxiety/
Thursday, February 21, 2013
20-Minute Acupuncture Stress Treatments for $20
Come discover all the stress-reduction benefits of acupuncture! Ask any questions you may have about acupuncture and how it can improve your health. We treat various disorders including allergies, anxiety and depression, headaches, neck and back pain, digestive and respiratory disorders, and women's health issues. We see patients of all ages.
These will be offered each Tuesday during March (3/5/13-3/28/13) from 10am until 3pm. By Appointment Only.
Call 617-372-3960 or email info@kateruma.com with any questions.
These will be offered each Tuesday during March (3/5/13-3/28/13) from 10am until 3pm. By Appointment Only.
Call 617-372-3960 or email info@kateruma.com with any questions.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Do You Know That Acupuncture Treats Poor Circulation and Neuropathy?
Check out the article below for info about how electro-acupuncture benefits these conditions. Call us at 617.372.3960 with any questions.
http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=32704
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Can acupuncture decrease recovery time after an ACL injury?
by Caitlin Isbister, Lic. Ac., MSTOM, Dipl. O.M.
The Boston area was stunned a week and a half ago after Rajon Rondo, the point guard for the Celtics, suffered an ACL tear and is expected to be out for the rest of the season. Whether you are a professional athlete like Rondo, an amateur athlete, or a weekend warrior, you are also at risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, especially if your sport is basketball, football, skiing or soccer. Did you know acupuncture has the potential to decrease pain, speed recovery time, and get you (and Rondo) back to the court or field quicker?
How can acupuncture help?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin, hair-like needles into the body at certain points. The needle is used as a conduit to direct the bioelectric energy, or qi, in the body, and to break through any of the body's qi, blood and/or fluid blockages. Each acupuncture treatment is tailored to the patient’s specific needs. Needling often occurs locally around the affected joint, but it also will include needles further away from the knee around the ankle and/or foot, and depending on the patient's constitution, on the arms, head and back.
One physiological way acupuncture decreases pain is by the release of the endorphins (pain-relieving hormones) into the bloodstream. Needling also increases blood flow to the affected area and decreases inflammation, swelling and edema in the area. Often, surgery is required to replace the torn ligament with a substitute graft made of tendon (1). In these cases, acupuncture can be utilized after the surgery occurs. It can decrease postoperative pain, increase range of motion of the knee and lower extremity and speed recovery time. Acupuncture often works well in conjunction with bodywork, chiropractic care, and physical therapy.
In addition to needles, the following modalities may be utilized during acupuncture treatments:
-Electroacupuncture: metal clips of an electrical stimulation machine are attached to the needles, thereby promoting the release of endorphins and decreasing pain.
-Moxibustion: The herb mugwort, or artemesia vulgaris, is used topically or nearby the affected joint and points on the body to stimulate the blood flow to the area and promote healing.
-Chinese Herbal Medicine: If appropriate, Chinese herbal formulas are administered to the patient, which target the lower extremities, promote blood flow and decrease inflammation. These vary depending upon the patient's constitution.
At Kate Ruma and Associates Acupuncture, we have treated knee pain successfully for years, stemming from a variety of causes, including: arthritis, ACL/medial collateral ligament tears, tendinitis, Baker's cysts, and/or bursitis. If you have questions about how acupuncture might help your knee pain/injury, please call us at 617.372.3960, email us at Info@KateRuma.com, or visit us at www.kateruma.com.
_________________________________
Caitlin effectively treats various types of sports injuries at Kate Ruma & Associates Acupuncture in Arlington, MA. She also treats headaches, stress disorders, and women's health issues. In 2011, she held a residency at Boston Medical Center in the Department of Family Medicine. Caitlin is a third degree black belt in taekwon-do, and when not in the office, enjoys practicing taekwon-do patterns, yoga, and qi gong. She can be reached at Caitlin@KateRuma.com.
References
1. ACL Injury: Does it Require Surgery? American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00297
The Boston area was stunned a week and a half ago after Rajon Rondo, the point guard for the Celtics, suffered an ACL tear and is expected to be out for the rest of the season. Whether you are a professional athlete like Rondo, an amateur athlete, or a weekend warrior, you are also at risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, especially if your sport is basketball, football, skiing or soccer. Did you know acupuncture has the potential to decrease pain, speed recovery time, and get you (and Rondo) back to the court or field quicker?
How can acupuncture help?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin, hair-like needles into the body at certain points. The needle is used as a conduit to direct the bioelectric energy, or qi, in the body, and to break through any of the body's qi, blood and/or fluid blockages. Each acupuncture treatment is tailored to the patient’s specific needs. Needling often occurs locally around the affected joint, but it also will include needles further away from the knee around the ankle and/or foot, and depending on the patient's constitution, on the arms, head and back.
One physiological way acupuncture decreases pain is by the release of the endorphins (pain-relieving hormones) into the bloodstream. Needling also increases blood flow to the affected area and decreases inflammation, swelling and edema in the area. Often, surgery is required to replace the torn ligament with a substitute graft made of tendon (1). In these cases, acupuncture can be utilized after the surgery occurs. It can decrease postoperative pain, increase range of motion of the knee and lower extremity and speed recovery time. Acupuncture often works well in conjunction with bodywork, chiropractic care, and physical therapy.
In addition to needles, the following modalities may be utilized during acupuncture treatments:
-Electroacupuncture: metal clips of an electrical stimulation machine are attached to the needles, thereby promoting the release of endorphins and decreasing pain.
-Moxibustion: The herb mugwort, or artemesia vulgaris, is used topically or nearby the affected joint and points on the body to stimulate the blood flow to the area and promote healing.
-Chinese Herbal Medicine: If appropriate, Chinese herbal formulas are administered to the patient, which target the lower extremities, promote blood flow and decrease inflammation. These vary depending upon the patient's constitution.
At Kate Ruma and Associates Acupuncture, we have treated knee pain successfully for years, stemming from a variety of causes, including: arthritis, ACL/medial collateral ligament tears, tendinitis, Baker's cysts, and/or bursitis. If you have questions about how acupuncture might help your knee pain/injury, please call us at 617.372.3960, email us at Info@KateRuma.com, or visit us at www.kateruma.com.
_________________________________
Caitlin effectively treats various types of sports injuries at Kate Ruma & Associates Acupuncture in Arlington, MA. She also treats headaches, stress disorders, and women's health issues. In 2011, she held a residency at Boston Medical Center in the Department of Family Medicine. Caitlin is a third degree black belt in taekwon-do, and when not in the office, enjoys practicing taekwon-do patterns, yoga, and qi gong. She can be reached at Caitlin@KateRuma.com.
References
1. ACL Injury: Does it Require Surgery? American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00297
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
'Tis the Season of Cold & Flu - Got Acupuncture?
Have you had an acupuncture treatment lately?
Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are helpful in boosting your immune system, and they can also rid yourself of persistent cough, nasal congestion, etc. Call us with any questions about how a treatment may benefit you this winter (617.372.3960).
One simple way to decrease the chances of your family, friends, and co-workers contracting your cold and/or flu is to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough and sneeze and wash your hands frequently. Did you know sneezes travel at about 100 miles an hour? Check out the link below for more surprising facts about sneezing.
http://www.webmd.com/allergies/features/11-surprising-sneezing-facts
Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are helpful in boosting your immune system, and they can also rid yourself of persistent cough, nasal congestion, etc. Call us with any questions about how a treatment may benefit you this winter (617.372.3960).
One simple way to decrease the chances of your family, friends, and co-workers contracting your cold and/or flu is to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough and sneeze and wash your hands frequently. Did you know sneezes travel at about 100 miles an hour? Check out the link below for more surprising facts about sneezing.
http://www.webmd.com/allergies/features/11-surprising-sneezing-facts
Monday, December 10, 2012
Acupuncture and Ion Pumping Cords for Whiplash and Burns
Our associate Brette Luck recently published her fascinating article in Acupuncture Today.
Click on the following link to read more about Brette's experience using acupuncture and ion pumping cords to treat burns and whiplash.
http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=32667
Click on the following link to read more about Brette's experience using acupuncture and ion pumping cords to treat burns and whiplash.
http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=32667
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Acupuncture is for Kids Too!
Did you know we treat kids at our office? Here's a photo of one of our associates, Brette Luck, with two happy patients!
Children and adolescents are brought into the clinic for a variety of conditions and disorders. A few examples include digestive disorders, headaches, anxiety, skin disorders, and difficulty concentrating. Call us at 617.372.3960 for more info.
Children and adolescents are brought into the clinic for a variety of conditions and disorders. A few examples include digestive disorders, headaches, anxiety, skin disorders, and difficulty concentrating. Call us at 617.372.3960 for more info.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Happy Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Day!
Did you know that Traditional Chinese Medicine can help with the following?
- difficulty sleeping
- knee pain
- perimenopausal symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, etc.)
- neck and shoulder tension
- cough, difficulty breathing, asthma
- anxiety & irritability
We use acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to treat a variety of disorders. Call us at 617.372.3960 or email Info@KateRuma.com to find out more about how TCM can improve your health.
www.kateruma.com
Monday, October 15, 2012
Donate to our Fall Food Drive and Save on Acupuncture
From now until Thanksgiving! Bring in a can of food and get $5 off a treatment* or $20 off a package of
10 or more treatments**.
*New patients will get $10 off their initial consultation and
acupuncture treatment, so please forward this email to your friends!
**Limit one per person. Applicable to treatments and acupuncture packages only (10 or more treatments). Offer does not include herbs or children's treatments. No double discounts.
The food that is collected will be donated to the Arlington Food Pantry. Here are some examples of food sought:
Cereal
Dried Milk
Canned Fruits & Vegetables
Peanut Butter & Jelly
Tuna Fish & Canned Meats
Meals in a Can, e.g.,Spaghetti-O's, stews, hash, ravioli, soups, etc.
Fruit Juices, Coffee, Tea
Pasta & Sauces
Canned Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce
Crackers, Cookies, Mixes
Jello & Pudding Mixes
Baby Food, Diapers, & Baby Wipes
Toiletries, e.g., soap, shampoo, conditioners, toothpaste, toothbrushes, toilet paper, etc.
Johnny's Foodmaster Giftcards
***Please avoid glass containers and perishable foods.***
10 or more treatments**.
*New patients will get $10 off their initial consultation and
acupuncture treatment, so please forward this email to your friends!
**Limit one per person. Applicable to treatments and acupuncture packages only (10 or more treatments). Offer does not include herbs or children's treatments. No double discounts.
The food that is collected will be donated to the Arlington Food Pantry. Here are some examples of food sought:
Cereal
Dried Milk
Canned Fruits & Vegetables
Peanut Butter & Jelly
Tuna Fish & Canned Meats
Meals in a Can, e.g.,Spaghetti-O's, stews, hash, ravioli, soups, etc.
Fruit Juices, Coffee, Tea
Pasta & Sauces
Canned Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce
Crackers, Cookies, Mixes
Jello & Pudding Mixes
Baby Food, Diapers, & Baby Wipes
Toiletries, e.g., soap, shampoo, conditioners, toothpaste, toothbrushes, toilet paper, etc.
Johnny's Foodmaster Giftcards
***Please avoid glass containers and perishable foods.***
Monday, October 8, 2012
*Acupuncture, Insurance, & Health Savings Accounts (HSA)*
We are now accepting the following insurance plans:
Consolidated Health Plan & Tufts. Coverage depends on the specific plan that you have, so call your insurance company today to find out if yours covers acupuncture.
Acupuncture is often eligible for your HSA and Flex Spending Account, and the time to sign up for them at work is quickly approaching.
Call or email us with any questions about how acupuncture can improve your health.
617.372.3960 - Info@KateRuma.com
We are now accepting the following insurance plans:
Consolidated Health Plan & Tufts. Coverage depends on the specific plan that you have, so call your insurance company today to find out if yours covers acupuncture.
Acupuncture is often eligible for your HSA and Flex Spending Account, and the time to sign up for them at work is quickly approaching.
Call or email us with any questions about how acupuncture can improve your health.
617.372.3960 - Info@KateRuma.com
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Free Lecture - Nature Provides For You and Your Baby: How Breastfeeding is Designed to Work
Join us for a fascinating presentation given by BirthReady's Robin Snyder-Drummond. Robin is a Board Certified Lactation Consultant and a DONA certified birth doula. This lecture is geared toward expectant and new moms but all are welcome! Check out www.birthready.com for more information about Robin.
This talk is being held at our office at 180 Mass Ave., Suite 301, Arlington, MA, on October 25th at 6:30pm. Please RSVP by emailing Info@KateRuma.com or calling 617.372.3960. Space is limited so be sure to call and register.
This talk is being held at our office at 180 Mass Ave., Suite 301, Arlington, MA, on October 25th at 6:30pm. Please RSVP by emailing Info@KateRuma.com or calling 617.372.3960. Space is limited so be sure to call and register.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Tips for Cold & Flu Prevention
Although fall is a beautiful season, it is also, of course, a time when people tend to contract colds and flu. Here are 3 tips for cold/flu prevention:
1) Come in for an immunity-boosting acupuncture treatment. If you tend to get sick around this time of year, or you are still experiencing allergy symptoms, it is helpful to come in for a series of four weekly treatments to boost your immune system and rid yourself of respiratory difficulties.
2) Be sure to wash your hands frequently - especially when you are around others who have cold/flu symptoms.
3) Remember to layer your clothing in this New England weather. It may be 70 during the day at times, but it can get cold quickly! Keep scarves, sweaters and/or jackets on hand when you go outside - especially in this rain!
Call us at 617.372.3960 or email Info@KateRuma.com for any questions about Chinese medicine.
1) Come in for an immunity-boosting acupuncture treatment. If you tend to get sick around this time of year, or you are still experiencing allergy symptoms, it is helpful to come in for a series of four weekly treatments to boost your immune system and rid yourself of respiratory difficulties.
2) Be sure to wash your hands frequently - especially when you are around others who have cold/flu symptoms.
3) Remember to layer your clothing in this New England weather. It may be 70 during the day at times, but it can get cold quickly! Keep scarves, sweaters and/or jackets on hand when you go outside - especially in this rain!
Call us at 617.372.3960 or email Info@KateRuma.com for any questions about Chinese medicine.
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