Amenorrhea: What does not having a menstrual cycle mean?
By · CommentsBy Dr. Kathleen Albertson, L. Ac.
PhD, Holistic Nutrition
(949)-861-8901
www.orangecountyacupuncture.com
“A” in Greek is the word for “negative,” “men” is the word for “month” and “rhea” refers to “flow.” Amenorrhea means “no menstrual flow” (absence of menstruation). In Chinese medicine, it refers to “no moon.”
Rudyard Kipling said, “East is east and West is west and never the twain shall meet.”
Today it is more important than ever to understand TCM (Traditional Chinese medicine which includes acupuncture and herbal medicine) as well as Western medicine. Today’s reality integrates these two schools of thought to improve patient care. TCM gets to the root cause naturally with out the harsh affects of drugs.
We know that gynecology in China goes back as far as the early 1500 BC. Gynecologists were called “breast doctors” who treated diseases “under the skirt.”
By taking advantage of this ancient, successful medicine, we resolve many gynecological health problems at its source, earlier in the woman’s reproductive life, and perhaps bearing her from a lifetime of medications, infertility, or lack of hope.
For most women TCM is not sought as the first line of medical resolution. They seek out acupuncture and herbal medicine when all else fails; when they are the middle of fertility procedures, or when someone recommends TCM to them. We owe it to the women in our lives to recommend TCM for this condition. It is normal for menstruation to cease during pregnancy and breast-feeding. So, unless it is a structural or congenital health problem TCM provides solutions and restores your health.
Failure to menstruate may cause the uterine lining to thicken putting you at risk for cancers.
Definitions
Primary amenorrhea A young woman has reached the age of 16 (in some texts 18) and has not begun menstruating.
Oligomenorrhea or secondary amenorrhea A woman who has started menses but has missed menstrual cycles for three consecutive months.
Secondary amenorrhea often occurs with extreme exercise such as long-distance running. Typically, leaner women have higher levels of protein which affect estrogen; therefore, less free estrogen is available to stimulate the reproductive cycle properly. Other specific causes include stress, nutritional inadequacies, hormonal imbalances, tumors, intrauterine infection, endometriosis, discontinuation of oral contraceptives, diseases such as diabetes mellitus or tuberculosis, anorexia nervosa, or obesity.
In hypergonadotropin amenorrhea, high gonadotropin ─ any of several hormones that stimulate the growth and activity of the gonads, especially follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) ─ and low estrogen levels create symptoms similar to those of menopause: atrophy of the reproductive organs, hot flashes, irritability and other changes. The patient may experience internal sensations of heat, thirst, irritability, low back pain, vaginal dryness or dryness of the eyes. This type is affiliated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or premature ovarian failure (POF).
TCM looks to:
• overwork,
• emotional and physical stress,
• poor diet,
• or constitutional weakness
that creates deficiencies of Qi, Blood, Essence or Liver Blood. The Blood “fails to arrive” (menstruation) and becomes stagnant. Emotional stress, excessive physical work or overwork, poor nutritional choices, anger, sadness, anxiety and worry in today’s busy world are common culprits leading to these disorders. Many women feel that they have busy lives, but handle the stress well. Many don’t realize the imbalance this causes, many are reluctant to admit it, and many don’t perceive it as a disorder.
Other symptoms may include menses that stops after several months with decreasing volume of blood. Fatigue, anxiety or depression, or insomnia are also common symptoms.
Some women may experience:
• Poor appetite.
• Bloating.
• Loose stools.
• Constipation.
A woman may either express cold hands and feet, or heat sensations at night. Other women may experience secondary amenorrhea with the cycle lengthening gradually developing to amenorrhea accompanied by foggy thinking, obesity, or excessive vaginal discharge.
These are imbalances that all can be treated with TCM. Your practitioner will determine which organ systems are the cause of your problems and create a treatment protocol specifically for you.
TCM is underutilized and under valued as a primary resource for resolving your health problems. Educate yourself, your mother, sisters, daughters, and friends on the true importance of achieving optimum health naturally. This includes TCM. Integration of Western and Eastern medicine fosters the best medical care.
Dr. Albertson is the author of “Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Women’s Health: Bridging the Gap Between Western and Eastern Medicine.” In private practice for over 15 years, she is available for interviews, consultation and speaking engagements. Irvine, CA. She holds a PhD in Holistic Nutrition as well as state and national licenses in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine.
by Kathleen Albertson, L. Ac.
Acupuncturist, Herbalist, Author, and Holistic Nutritionist
Many studies report the success of acupuncture and herbal therapy in conjunction with pain and symptom management for cancer. This is mostly used to ease the negative effects during radiation, or chemotherapy.
Tongue ulcers, and mouth sores, peeling skin, rashes, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, headaches, depression and anxiety are common side effects of Western treatment. All improved through Traditional Chinese Medicine (which includes acupuncture and Chinese Herbal medicine).
How else should we be using this ancient medicine to help the serious problems of today’s toxic world?
Let’s look at what TCM does:
• Reduces stress- mental and physical.
• Supports and improves the immune system.
• Releases beta endorphins, affects the central, autonomic and sympathetic nervous systems.
• Balances hormones and positively affects the endocrine system with the goal of bring in g the body to balance (homeostasis).
• Helps detoxify the liver and kidneys.
• Promotes blood flow and circulation.
• Removes stagnant energy. Stagnation is a result of energy and blood getting “stuck” or congested. Tumors, cysts, fibroids, growths- are considered ’stagnation of blood” that can be alleviated, reduced, removed.
• Uses a holistic-treatment of the root cause- versus symptomatic approach. Thereby resolving the problem, not just masking symptoms.
• Discusses the importance of holistic nutrition and balance of lifestyles part of treatment and prevention whereas Western medicine devotes little or no focus on this.
Cancer is on the rise and TCM is still overlooked as a prevention mechanism and as an adjunct with Western treatment protocol. Cancer is best treated by bridging the gap between Western and Eastern medicine. It is best addressed by educating our people on healthier living, and healthier eating. Stress, processed food, chemicals and drugs are major causes of cancer yet little time is devoted to the root cause. Why? Samuel Epstein wrote of “The Politics of Cancer” in 1978. The economic gains of treating cancer form the basis of Western treatment at the expense of eradicating cancer. Cancer survivors are the first to reduce the stress, exercise, and improve their nutrition. They change- forever. Their wake up call was received and they know all to well that they need to maintain a balanced lifestyle with proper diet and nutrition. Why don’t we as a nation “get it?” Why can’t we as a nation promote prevention?
How can TCM help? 9 Ways to consider:
1. Promotes the flow of energy (Qi) and blood. If Qi and blood are flowing, there is no disease. This balanced flow opens up all of the body’s systems with the brain so that they function optimally.
2. TCM supports the immune system. A strong immune system fights off disease before it affects your body. Qi relates to your level of vitality and energy. It, in a sense, is your immune system. Qi and blood are interdependent and both must be strong for the body to be healthy and disease free.
3. TCM has long been used to fight colds, flu, build white cells and lymphocytes and this is well supported with research. My patients know to call for acupuncture treatment and herbs as soon as they start feeling sick. New patients who have been sick with a cold, flu, bronchitis, or sinus infections get well quicker with TCM. Their immune system gets the boost they need to fully restore and recover them from illness. No need to stay sick, fatigued, irritable, and run down when you can incorporate TCM.
4. TCM reduces stress. Stress over stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, increases cortisol, weakens the adrenals, causes irritability, depression and anxiety. TCM balances and stabilizes all of these factors. Got stress?!
5. TCM addresses lifestyle (overworking, lack of proper rest, drug use), the importance of holistic nutrition and eating properly. Processed foods and ingested chemicals are toxic. Each generation suffers more and more from allergies (food, chemical, environmental), obesity, diabetes, lowered immune system, ADD and autism. Our diet, drugs, and environments are the root cause. If our children are sicker, less able to compete with disease, it is no wonder autoimmune disorders and cancers are on the rise. Read “The China Study” which details the connection between nutrition, heart disease, diabetes and cancer. The report also examines the source of nutritional confusion produced by lobbies, government entities, and opportunistic scientists. We can change how we eat…and how we die.
6. TCM treats emotions. Depression, anxiety, irritability, worry, and fear can be the cause of disease, or a symptom. In case, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine balances these emotions. You will feel better.
7. TCM reduces risk factors. Overall your focus is on prevention and keeping your body “tuned up.”
8. If you learn how to take care of yourself- through diet, nutrition, exercise and balance your lifestyle you are more likely to be healthier, longer, in your life, with less chronic disease. If you are able to stay off medications which harm your liver and kidneys, your body will function better over the long term. Many patients are on 3, 4 or 5 medications and still pay no attention to diet or exercise. Are doctors talking about better health to their patients?
9. We live longer today, but not necessarily healthier. It is more likely that you will live through stroke, or a heart attack, and that you will need long term care. Prevention and proper care of you on a daily basis-starting at a young age- throughout our life- is the key to reducing cancer and chronic disease in the US.
Education and behavior change towards better health will lead us in the right direction. TCM is here to help get you started on the right foot.
Kathie is a licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, author, and nutritionist in practice for over 15 years.
“Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Women’s Health: Brdiging the Gap Between Western and Eastern Medicine”
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 wrinkles
· Reduces the depth of deeper lines
· 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.
· 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.
· 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.
· For neck wrinkles: Stroke upward from the collarbone to the jaw line. Repeat 3-5 times.
Call for your apppointmetn today- 949-861-8901.
By Dr. Kathleen Albertson, L. Ac.
PhD, Holistic Nutrition
Improved patient care depends on holistic measures that resolve health problems and improve patient care. Today, chronic diseases- heart and liver disease, arthritis, stress, fatigue and anxiety are common place ailments. They should not be. With the Health Reform Act, more people will have health care, and that is a good thing. But who is advocating the “health” in “healthcare?”
Doctors, hospitals and clinics may not be as excited to treat more patients—particularly if it means less fees or absurd low contract rates. It seems as though the pharmaceutical companies WILL be happy and more profitable. After all, a wider patient base means more prescription drugs bought and used, thus more profits.
What is wrong with this picture? More drugs? Increased chronic disease and skyrocketing morbidity rates? Where is the focus on wellness?
Where is the education on wholesome nutrition, diet, and lifestyle change? Where is the attention to” health’?
TCM seeks to improve and better your health more naturally. Change is coming. Thirty-eight percent of Americans use at least one form of alternative care according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Among children age 17 years and younger, usage is 12%.
I applaud the parents taking preventive and healthy measures to insure their children’s’ quality of life and healthy longevity.
We as a nation are sick of being sick.7 Reasons to try something different!
Traditional Chinese Medicine (includes Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine) makes a different in your health:
1. It stands the test of time (5000 years old) in treating the root cause of disease. It doesn’t just mask the symptoms like Western medicine (200 years old), but in many, many cases can restore your health so you don’t need medications.
2. It supports your immune system and often keeps you from getting sick in the first place. This is a precursor not addressed in Western medicine. Western medicine happens after the fact. In effect, it can reduce chronic illness and autoimmune disorders like arthritis and heart disease.
3. TCM discusses lifestyle, good nutrition and healthy diet changes as part of your treatment. This affects how you can get well.
4. TCM reduces stress in the body which benefits your nervous system.
5. TCM addresses emotions, anxiety, depression and insomnia- also silent killers in there own right
6. TCM is CHEAPER. Why not “nip the problem in the bud,” so you don’t need drugs in the first place. If it keeps you well, you will need less medical care, les medication in the long run and improve your quality of life.
It encourages healthy eating and exercise as part of your individual health reform. Maybe alternative care will now get the attention it deserves in improving patient care and treatment outcomes. The bottom line per family, per community, city, state and nation benefits physically as well as fiscally.
7. Many insurance companies now cover acupuncture. Consumer demand may have spiked this interest, but maybe now they will support the potential health benefits TCM brings if it keeps money in their wallet. This trend is important as Western and Eastern medicine begin to co- exist in primary care. Health reform starts individually with what you can do to improve your own health. TCM helps you start on the right foot.
OC Acupuncture, Inc.
(949)-861-8901
www.orangecountyacupuncture.com
Author of “Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Women’s Health:
Bridging the Gap Between Western and Eastern Medicine”
Bridging The Gap West Meets East!
By · CommentsAcupuncturist and Herbalist Successfully Bridges Gap Between Western and Eastern Medicine
The fact that Eastern, or Chinese medicine, has been dominating the news in recent months is nothing new to Kathleen Albertson, a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist. Albertson isn’t your typical acupuncturist or herbalist. She’s a published author, woman’s health specialist and fertility guru with decades of educational credentials, including a PhD in Holistic Nutrition. As a TCM practitioner (which includes acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine), her successes with fertility are no secret. Her website features a page with dozens of fertility success stories, and her office walls hold hundreds of baby photos. Her herbal consultations and customized formulations are equally successful.
Dr. Albertson is one of few herbalists in the world offering satellite consultations using modern tools such as Skype to communicate and even video chat with clients who are in need of a solution that works. Herbs that are formulated uniquely for their disorders and problems. “Chinese herbs are safe and effective for not only resolving fertility and menstrual problems, but for alleviating pain, digestive, and respiratory disorders, supporting the immune system, and reducing stress, fatigue and insomnia…naturally.” Western medications are very harsh on your liver and kidneys and Western medicine uses drugs as a first line of defense to minimize or mask symptoms. “Why stay on medications for months and years when TCM looks to resolve the root cause of your disease?” TCM practitioners are trained in herb drug interactions and contraindications. Side effects of herbs are significantly less problematic than with western meds.” Albertson states, “I offer a gentle, caring, educational approach bringing this 5000 year old medicine into modern times.” “We certainly need it now!”
In late 2009, she published her first book titled Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Woman’s Health: Bridging the Gap Between Western and Eastern Medicine.
John Clark, a librarian responsible for considering Dr. Albertson’s book as a consumer health resource in the State of Maine stated, “This (Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Woman’s Health:, Bridging the Gap Between Western and Eastern Medicine) is a well-written and well thought out addition to the growing body of literature on acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. Dr. Albertson has taken great care to incorporate scientific research and personal narratives to create a book which contains insights and a wealth of useful knowledge.”
Dr. Albertson’s extensive education and training uniquely blends Western and Eastern Medicine, allowing her to better explain and inform doctors and patients on how TCM and holistic medicine works. “I treat the root cause; TCM doesn’t bury the symptoms-it fixes the problem- and isn’t just a Band-Aid.” The goal is to improve patient health, teach patients about nutrition, lifestyle and healthy living so they can avoid and deter the chronic illnesses faced by so many who rely solely on Western medicine.
She offers acupuncture, herbal consultations and customized formulas in her office and herbal consultations and formulas by phone email and Skype. “Sometimes a basic formula, such as those I offered on my website are sufficient for a patients needs, but most patients, however, need specialized, customized formulations that correct all of the nuances presented by a patient’s symptoms and pattern of disease,” stated Albertson.
Dr. Albertson’s expertise comes from decades of education and experience. She opened her practice in 1995 and is both California and National Board certified in acupuncture and herbal medicine. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, a Masters of Science in Oriental Medicine, a Masters of Arts in Counseling, a PhD in Holistic Nutrition, is a Certified Massage Therapist, and is certified in Acupuncture Orthopedics. She is a member of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, RESOLVE: the National Infertility Association, and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine.
To learn more about Dr. Albertson or to schedule a consultation, please
visit her website at www.OrangeCountyAcupuncture.com or call 949-861-8901. She is a sought after practitioner, writer and speaker and is available for interviews.
What Drives an Acupuncturist?
By · CommentsA good philosophy on Health and People!
An interview with Kathie Albertson, L. Ac., PhD
It’s not every day you meet someone who is as enthusiastic about the present and future of medicine as Dr. Kathie Albertson is. Kathie is licensed acupuncturist and herbalist in Irvine, CA. She also holds a PhD in Holistic Nutrition. I sat down with Kathie and she revealed deep perspective on how important it is to combine Eastern and Western medicine to improve your health.
What can acupuncture and herbal medicine do for us as patients?
TCM (traditional Chinese medicine which includes acupuncture and Chinese herbs) has been around for 5000 years. Not only does it stand the test of time, TCM also treats health problems holistically, in a manner that resolves the root cause rather than masking or medicating symptoms.
The basic difference between Western medicine and TCM is that Western medicine utilizes a linear approach by focusing on the indicators of illness, while TCM corrects the problem at its base. TCM resolves the origin of disease in a natural, healthy, and safe way, and it is generally quicker as imbalances are detected much earlier. Western medicine, on the other hand, must wait for the problem show up on a test or in a diagnostic before it is treated. This is a lengthy process and diseases worsen over time, as does a patient’ hope.
Many patients try acupuncture out of desperation, or because of poor results from Western medicine, or because they are tired of the doctor trying one medication after another without knowing what’s causing the problem. Patients are tired of being shuffled around from one specialist to another, without any one caring totally, about how they feel. Many patients arrive at my door on multiple medications, sicker than when they started because of the side effects of the drugs. Their immune systems are compromised, their liver is toxic and they have lost a quality of life. They easily discuss the anxiety, depression, and frustration derived from trying to get better, without success. I know the powerful results that TCM brings to my patients’ health and I can’t wait to help them see and feel the benefits.
I love it when an MD refers a pain patient, or one who has had little results from Western medicine. I just hate it when I see patients who have found acupuncture on their own, without any guidance from Western medical doctors. It’s just not good enough! And as a society we should work towards being better than this. TCM can heal people faster, without severe side effects caused by Western drugs. It restores quality of life, improves the immune system and puts them back to work faster.
Is it that inconsistency and lack of knowledge between Western Eastern medicines that drives you?
Absolutely! I want to educate my patients on how TCM works for them and what it can do to improve and optimize their health. I want those who have not experienced acupuncture to learn more about it and consider TCM as part of their primary care. I want mothers to learn and know about TCM so that their children and families don’t have to suffer. I see many children in my practice with eczema, respiratory, sinus and digestive problems, ADD, and autism. Many women suffer from menstrual irregularities, infertility, headaches, insomnia, depression and much more, which are tremendously helped with TCM. Men are the “providers.” “Providers” don’t complain or let on about their symptoms! They seem to carry their physical and emotional pains over a longer term. They soon realize that TCM significantly helps reduce the stress in their lives as well as alleviate neck, back, knee, elbow pains and injuries, as well as prostate problems, libido, headaches, digestion issues, and immune system concerns. If TCM can help all ages, and is effective, we should tell the world!
So why is your practice so unique?
Well, I could say that my Italian descent brings a compassionate, helping, yet tough love approach! I want my patients to feel listened to. I want to educate them on how TCM works and how it will work best for them; so education is an important component in my first interview, and because of my Ph.D. in Holistic Nutrition, I am concerned with changing poor nutritional habits. Nutrition, diet, and lifestyle (stress, overwork, medications, drug use,) are critical components of TCM and you will feel much better sooner if these are addressed and improved.
In addition, I pride myself on taking a “hands on” approach. While a western doctor might simply advise: “you need more rest,” or “you need to exercise a little,” or “you need to reduce stress,” I work closely with my patients to whatever level of commitment or improvement they desire and can handle. For example, with a patient coming for infertility (because she/ he has not had success and has perhaps undergone one or two IVF (in vitro fertilization), I will thoroughly and wholly assess their lifestyle. Many times, she/he is still drinking soft drinks, coffee, a little wine here and there, and very little water. Hello?! Good nutrition is what makes a good blood system, which makes good eggs, happy sperm, good implantation, a healthy uterus and balanced endocrine system.
I like to say, the largest room in the world is the room for improvement! When a patient is already working so hard to achieve their goal, some additional changes can help us achieve even greater results. I conduct a vitamin and mineral deficiency test and other analyses to identify problems not addressed by western medicine. I can also formulate and dispense a unique, specific Chinese herbal formula, which treats the root cause and improves progress and results.
Are Chinese herbs safe?
YES, and much more so than Western medications in many, many cases. The side effects may be slight diarrhea if the formula is taken in too large a dose or is not adapted to the patient’s individual sensitivities. This is easily corrected and a good herbalist makes a proper formula. Western drugs have severe effects on the liver and kidneys, and Western protocols keep many patients on drugs forever; often they need not be if we can correct the root disorder.
Stabilization is important, so a TCM practitioner would not take a patient off their drugs. Many patients begin feeling better and then meet with their doctor to discuss prescription changes. Drugs used for hypertension, cholesterol, or blood thinners for stroke or brain injury patients serve a critical purpose in the patient’s life and are addressed very appropriately. A TCM practitioner is familiar with drug interactions and herbs so caution and airing on the side of prudence is always respected and warranted.
The herbs I use are FDA compliant and of very high grade. They are dispensed in powder or capsule form. I give the patient a list of what is in the herbs and I explain the functions with them. There are no proprietary rights on herbs – they are plants – and when used properly they can have tremendous positive impact. However, the FDA and the AMA know little about the Chinese herbs and if there is no profit made by the drug industry, they simply have no interest in saying anything positive about them and they usually get a bad rap. When used wisely, in the right situations, they are amazing, as patients will attest. Everything from sinus infections, bronchitis, headaches, pain and injuries, digestive issues, menstrual problems, infertility, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety and stress are common problems successfully addressed with a combination of acupuncture and herbs.
Is it important for someone to have both acupuncture and herbs?
Every patient is different and I recommend what I think is appropriate for each individual given their level commitment and their goals; these are discussed in your initial meeting when we go through your history. We talk about how TCM can best help you. Sometimes it is just acupuncture, just herbs, or a combination. It is always tailored to fit your best needs.
If I wanted to buy herbs from you and was not geographically able, what would you do?
I am able to conduct a telephone consultation or interview with you by SKYPE coast-to-coast. I send you medical paperwork, which outlines your history, symptoms, medications, and health problems, which you complete and return to me. This information, coupled with the information we discuss, allows me to make a specific, unique, individualized formula that addresses your health concerns. This is very effective in many cases, and I have many satisfied patients living in other states who have used this protocol.
Tell me about your book.
I feel so strongly that the combination of Western and Eastern medicine improves patient care that I wanted to write about and educate women on TCM. Not only for their health, but also for the health of their children and family members. The title of my book is “Acupuncture and Chinese herbal Medicine for Women’s Health: Bridging the Gap between Western and Eastern medicine.” Very little exists on book shelves today, written for the layperson, on how successful acupuncture and herbal medicine is for treating menstrual irregularities, migraine headaches, infertility, pregnancy related problems, and peri-menopause or menopausal symptoms. It is my opportunity to educate, discuss and relay to women how effective TCM is in treating all these issues. Just think of it no more PMS! No more heavy periods! Yes to ovulation! No to hot flashes! And yes to improving take-home baby rates. This is an important read for women and their doctors.
Where can I purchase the book?
You can purchase Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Women’s Health: Bridging the Gap Between Western and Eastern Medicine through my website www.orangecountyacupuncture.com.
How do you see the future of health care?
I am thankful that so many patients have become self-advocates in their own care. The bad news is they have been forced to do so because of lack of good Western treatment or results. By combining Western medicine with Eastern medicine, we can have it all: better health, less need for medications, stronger immune systems, less stress in our lives, and healthier minds and bodies. My work continues to educate and teach so that others may benefit. Ultimately, it is the patient with good results, which tells and encourages the next potential patient to try something new. My hope is to educate patients and the Western medical community so that information, knowledge, and referrals are available sooner. The world could use less suffering and healthier men, women, and children. That is the future, regardless of national health reform. The reform starts within each one of us.
How can we contact you for questions or to make an appointment?
My office is located in Irvine, California at 9841 Irvine Center Dr., suite 170. I can be reached via email at Kathie@orangecountyacupuncture.com or phone, 949-861-8901.
Also please visit my website at www.orangecountyacupuncture.com and my blog at www.orangcountyacupuncture.wordpress.com.
I am here to help – that is my commitment.
4 Ways You can get Healthier now!
By · CommentsAre work, family, life in general, stressing you out? Don’t let it wear you out. You have too much to offer and you deserve better. Heres how you can feel better quickly: 1. Nutritional assessment via a Live Blood Cell review. What is it? We look at a drop of your blood, placed under a microscope to see the real world your body has to cope with!! Any yeast, bacteria, fungus? We will find it and get rid of it!. Are you tired? depressed? It will reveal itself in the quality of your red blood cells and even the white cells, neutrophils, will show us if your immune system is healthy or pooped out! Stressed?.. yes .. the Liver system which houses stress in TCM(Traditional Chinese Medicine) can be identified. We learn if your system is working correctly, how it is out of balance and we can correct what we see. My famous words: “Why are you suffering so much, when I can help you!” LIMITED OFFER $95 through February 15th. 2. Acupuncture: Holistic, feels great, supports and nourishes your mind and body..relieves your aches and pain, helps your digestion, clears your sinuses…..relaxes all of YOU. 3.Herbs: Chinese herbs are safe and effective.They are FDA compliant and I give you a list of what is in your formula. Herbs are used for a wide, wide variety of health problems, from colds, flu, fatigue, insomnia, any pain, menstrual problems, fertility, digestion, sinus congestion, ..not too mention how well they work for stress. They are made precisely for your system.. and are unique to your problems and sensitivities… Schedule to update or review your formula. I am now offering herbal consultations via telephone or SKYPE coast to coast. 4. Nutritional Supplements: Many patients take supplements… but how do you know if they are working? Are you deficient in any minerals or vitamins?? The Live Blood Cell Review gives us some information, as a foundation to start correcting your imbalances. I recommend getting a Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency test as well. Results have been amazing on patients who did this last year.. This could be you…feeling energetic, healthy, calm, productive, happy and healthy.. that is what this doctor is ordering for you!smiley baseball cap 949-861-8901- call today!
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How does Acupuncture Stop Pain?
By · CommentsHere are 5 ways TCM works for 12 different kinds of pain disorders!
No one likes pain and there are probably as many kinds of pains as there are numbers of colors in a large box of Crayola’s!
1. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, known as TCM, treats both acute and chronic pain from a wide variety of sources. You don’t have to live with it, whether it just came on suddenly, or you’ve been suffering with pain for months or years.
2. TCM provides natural pain relief by opening up the blood flow and circulation throughout your body. It removes stagnation and congestion and opens up areas with more blood flow when blood flow is weak or deficient. It reduces blood flow when there is too much.
3. TCM resolves the root issue. It just doesn’t mask symptoms like Western pain relievers do…and TCM is safer!! Western pharmaceuticals cause liver and kidney damage. They relive pain, but many patients become addicted to them. Pain killers can alter your real world so while they serve a short term purpose… you should resolve your pain issues more holistically and TCM- Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine- helps you to do just that. Pain killers affect how you think and how you feel… do you really want to be a couch potato and feel like a”slug”? Chronic use of pain killers only helps the pharmaceutical companies…not you!
Isn’t it worthwhile to keep your organs and your brain strong and clean so that they can best function for you on an ongoing basis and remain healthy as you age?
4. TCM affects brain chemistry, Beta endorphins, enkephalins, and neurotransmitters which can reduce pain and inflammation anywhere in the body. The brain and body must be congruent and TCM opens up these “circuit boards” to restore communication and homeostasis which leads to balanced health-i.e. no pain! No need for ongoing medications or any liver or kidney damage.
5. Acupuncture generally works quickly so you are out of pain, feeling good, kicking up your heels, and raring to go back to work… or more importantly feeling healthy and energetic to be with the ones you love.
So, what kinds of pain can TCM help?
Here are 12 common pain disorders that Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine treat!!
1. Strains and sprains-whether you are weekend warrior, a soccer mom, or couch potato,- young or old,- accidents happen, and TCM is proven to relieve pain in the joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
2. Arthritis-rheumatoid, or osteoarthritis are autoimmune diseases that continue to deteriorate if you leave them unattended; or if solely treated with western meds that merely mask the pain and temporarily reduce the inflammation. Without TCM, I see many patients get worse, having to add more…and more medications.
They begin to experience more pain, in more parts of their body, which is sad when TCM brings such good success!!!! Why don’t more doctors refer their patients to acupuncture?? My feeling is that the good ones do!! Too many doctors fail to refer because of legal fears. That is not a good enough reason in my book to not help another person!
3. Osteoporosis-is on the rise due to our lack of focus on bone health and nutrition. Weak bones can ache! Calcium is important and there is a lot of focus on how instrumental it is. However, it is as important to keep the body pH in alkaline balance. I can help you with the nutritional aspects of bone health. An acidic environment leaches calcium from our bones. We need the proper balance of calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, boron, zinc, and other trace minerals to maintain bone strength. Processed sugars, caffeine, alcohol and poor diets contribute greatly to this national health problem. So if you suffer with this, pay strict attention to what you are feeding your body! I can requisition a Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency Blood test (this is a lab draw), often covered by insurance, to determine what you are strong in and where you are deficient. Knowledge is power and this information can help you take the right supplements. The ones your body needs! If your deductible is met… let’s do it before year end..and yes, even medicare, and many HMO’s cover some of this fee.
4. Low back, or neck pain are probably the most common reasons patients seek an acupuncturist. Back pain costs Americans at least $37 billion annually, and many patients report little results from Western care. Seek out TCM now for relief!
5. Sciatica, disc bulges, or herniations are frequently treated with TCM to reduce inflammation and pain, and to restore blood flow and circulation in the lower back, neck and spine. That radiating pain to your foot, calf, groin or thigh that often accompanies sciatica is also alleviated.
6. Joint pain-elbow knees, wrists, ankles- whether it is joint inflammation or in conjunction with strained ligaments and tendons, can improve joint mobility and function. TCM offers no success if it is bone on bone…then surgery is needed. But if you have any cartilage in that joint I recommend trying TCM first. Of course it depends on the severity of your situation and every case is different…But at least consider it.
7. Postoperative pain, (in addition to physical therapy)— TCM has been well studied to improve it, to accelerate healing, and reduce scar tissue which gets you back to work or play more quickly. This includes gynecological surgeries, auto or work accidents, cosmetic or oral surgeries, or orthopedic or sports related surgeries.
8. Menstrual pain-whether your pain takes the form of migraine headaches, lower abdominal pain and cramping, dragging low back pain, bloating or breast tenderness, TCM has phenomenal results and if you suffer from this kind of pain you need not anymore! My book “Acupuncture and Chinese and Herbal Medicine for the Women’s Health: Bridging the Gap and Between Western and Eastern Medicine” focuses on gynecological pain and menstrual irregularities. It is a must read for all women and is available from my website.
9. Neuropathy-often results from complications of diabetes, post surgeries, effects of chemotherapy, medications, poor diets, poor circulation, excessive weight, or other post injuries and is successfully addressed. I see many cases of neuropathy develop without a “cause”— in TCM; we identify a pattern of disease that is based on your unique symptoms and correct the problem. We don’t need a “label” or a “diagnosis’ before we can help you. Many times this goes untreated because western doctors can’t find the “reason”!
10. Multiple sclerosis-is often treated in conjunction with other modalities providing pain relief, and strengthening of muscles, ligaments and nerves. A critical focus on nutrition is a must for any MS patient. Western or alternative protocols fail if the patient does not commit to an alkaline healthy diet and Western medicine sadly underplays the importance of this, relying on medications to mask symptoms, which only cause deterioration in the body, and ultimately, acceleration of the disease. I can help you with that.
11. Neurological pain has a wide variety of sources stemming from stroke, infection, injury, medications and chemicals, post surgery, or poor nutrition. Whatever the root or manifestation TCM provides balance and restoration, harmony, so that the body can heal.
12. Emotional pain- yes… while we are on the subject…TCM has extraordinary results in treating stress, depression, anxiety, worry and grief. It is the holistic nature of TCM that allows the blood and energy system to connect with the brain chemistry to balance your body, mind and spirit. Chronic emotional stress leads to physical disorders and chronic or acute physical pain causes emotional distress. Medications are not the answer! Elimination of pain is the answer. We address your holiday “blues” as well as more ongoing, serious emotional issues.
Physical or emotional, pain wreaks havoc on or body and mind… why not alleviate your pain today what ever it may be. TCM will help.
How did you like this?
If you have any questions feel free to contact me at www.orangecountyacupuncture.com or at 949-861-8901.
I am here to help!
Have a happy and healthy week!
