Science-based Natural Methods like Acupressure, Ear Seeds, Reflexology, and Cupping Explained

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete medical system that has been used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses for more than 2,000 years. TCM is based on using natural and effective therapies to bring the body to a state of homeostasis or balance. Multiple therapies have been developed to stimulate the body's own healing power.

The most commonly known and utilized TCM therapies are Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine.

The popularity of natural medicine has grown dramatically, and other TCM therapies are becoming mainstream. In today's blog, we will explore the science-based benefits of Acupressure, Ear Seeds, Reflexology, and Cupping.

Acupressure

A traditional bodywork technique based on the principles of Acupuncture, Acupressure is the application of pressure rather than needles on specific points on the body to control symptoms such as pain or nausea.

Acupressure aims to decrease pain, clear tension in muscles, increase blood circulation and promote deep states of relaxation. Acupressure can effectively relieve headaches and back aches and help manage conditions such as fibromyalgia. The acupressure technique also aids healing within soft tissues so that recovery is increased.

Acupressure is also a great way to empower patients to take control of their symptoms. Visit our blogs with step-by-step instructions on applying Acupressure at home.

Acupressure Points to Help You Fall Asleep

Acupressure Points for Immune System Strength

Acupressure Points for Migraine Headaches

Acupressure Points for Stress and Anxiety

Ear Seeds

Auriculotherapy or 'ear-seeds' works similarly to Acupuncture therapy. Ear seeds are meant to promote the release of natural endorphins, "feel-good" chemicals in your body.

Based on thousands of years of experience and modern-day techniques, ear acupuncture has been shown to promote comfort, and reduce stress and relaxation. These days, patients commonly use ear seeds to naturally help with pain, addiction, anxiety, mental health issues, and insomnia.

More studies need to be done to understand how specific points in the ears affect certain conditions. What we do know is that the all-important Vagus nerve is stimulated at the ear. Stimulating the inner portion of the ear with acupuncture needles or ear seeds can stimulate the Vagus nerve to promote the natural healing response and promote stress relief and relaxation.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a type of massage that involves applying different amounts of pressure to the feet, hands, and ears. The theory behind reflexology is that areas of the foot correspond to organs and systems of the body.

Reflexology is generally relaxing and may help alleviate stress. Several studies have shown that reflexology may reduce pain and psychological symptoms, such as stress and anxiety, and enhance relaxation and sleep.

Cupping Therapy

Cupping is a form of traditional Chinese and Middle Eastern medicine; both cultures have practiced cupping therapy for thousands of years.

During cupping therapy, suction from cupping draws fluid into the treated area and this force expands and breaks open tiny blood vessels under the skin.

The body treats the cupping area like an injury. It sends more blood to the area to stimulate the natural healing process, making it an effective therapy for pain relief.

Cupping has been shown to ease symptoms of common pain conditions, such as arthritis, back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, knee pain, and headaches. It is also commonly used to help with breathing problems like asthma.

At Modern Acupuncture, our Licensed Acupuncturists recommend the most effective treatment plans using Acupuncture and complimentary therapies to achieve the best health results. Many of our clinics are sharing the many benefits of TCM with our patients and achieve great results.

FAQ – Does Acupuncture Hurt?

You may feel a little sensation or tingle at the point, but most patients don’t feel anything at all and often fall asleep during their treatment because of how comfortable they are. Keep in mind that the acupuncture needles are extremely tiny, often smaller than a strand of human hair. Your acupuncturist will make sure that you are comfortable and adjust any point during your acupuncture session that causes discomfort.

Acupuncture Relieves Stress and Reduces Pain

Modern Acupuncture® is a natural stress relief solution and the leading provider of acupuncture in the U.S. The most studied theories show that acupuncture stimulates the body to release naturally produced “feel good” endorphins and stimulate the parasympathetic or “rest and digest” response in our body, alleviating symptoms associated with stress.