Over the years, I have encountered many patients suffering from Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN), both in my Mamaroneck office and during my training in Beijing with my teacher. I vividly remember the first time I witnessed my teacher treating a patient with postherpetic neuralgia back in 2011. I was amazed at how quickly the patient experienced relief. Many individuals sought him out specifically for relief from the intense, searing nerve pain associated with this condition. His treatment approach, which consisted solely of acupuncture and cupping, often left patients feeling significantly better after just a few sessions. The rapid results during my time in Beijing made a lasting impression on me, especially considering the debilitating nature of pain from shingles and PHN. However, there is hope in Chinese medicine for those seeking relief.

What Is Postherpetic Neuralgia?
Postherpetic neuralgia is chronic nerve pain that occurs after the resolution of a shingles infection. It stems from nerve damage caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for shingles and chickenpox. It is essentially severe nerve pain following a shingles virus infection.

How Does It Happen?

• Shingles Rash: Shingles leads to a painful, blistering skin rash in a specific nerve distribution known as a dermatome.
• Nerve Damage: In some individuals, particularly older adults, the nerves may remain damaged even after the rash and blisters have healed.
• Ongoing Pain: This nerve damage results in persistent pain in the area where the rash occurred.

Symptoms Of Postherpetic Neuralgia

• Pain Types: Burning, stabbing, or aching sensations.
• Duration of Pain: Pain that continues for months or even years after the shingles rash has healed.
• Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to touch, where even light clothing can cause discomfort.
• Other Sensations: Itching or numbness in the affected area.

Who’s At Risk?

• Individuals over 50 years old.
• Those who experience severe shingles rashes.
• People with weakened immune systems.

How Common Is Postherpetic Neuralgia?
Approximately 10-20% of people across all age groups who have shingles will develop postherpetic neuralgia.

What Does Chinese Medicine Say About Postherpetic Neuralgia?
According to Chinese medicine, both shingles and postherpetic neuralgia that follows are often caused by what we call damp heat or heat toxins, which block qi and blood circulation. In Chinese medicine, there is a saying: If there is a blockage of circulation, there will be pain. If there is no blockage, pain will not exist. This blockage also manifests as an accumulation of damp heat and heat toxins. The symptoms that are a manifestation of this dampness include aching pain, itching, and numbness. The burning sensation is clearly a manifestation of heat and toxins in the body. The extreme sensitivity to touch is also a symptom of dampness and heat trapped in the skin. All treatment aims to remove the toxins and heat from the skin layer while increasing local blood and qi circulation. As always, all aspects of health are considered, including sleep and digestion. This holistic approach allows for quicker and more lasting relief.

Can Acupuncture Help With Postherpetic Neuralgia?

• Pain Relief: Acupuncture is renowned for its ability to alleviate pain, regardless of its origin. It releases endorphins, which help diminish the perception of pain.
• Nerve Modulation: Acupuncture has been shown to positively influence nerve pathways and decrease irregular nerve activity resulting from injured nerves.
• Enhanced Circulation: Acupuncture promotes healing and reduces inflammation in affected areas by improving circulation. This relaxation allows painful tissues to begin calming.
• Stress and Anxiety Management: Acupuncture is effective in managing symptoms related to stress and anxiety.
• Overall Health Improvement: Enhanced sleep and digestion lead to better recuperation for the body.

What Does The Research Say?
Studies have explored acupuncture, cupping, and electroacupuncture as treatment options for postherpetic neuralgia. Research suggests that acupuncture can reduce pain intensity, relieve anxiety, and improve the overall quality of life for patients.

• Acupuncture therapy for treating postherpetic neuralgia
• Postherpetic Neuralgia: Practical Experiences Return to Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Effectiveness of acupuncture therapy for postherpetic neuralgia: an umbrella review protocol
• Efficacy and Safety of Moxibustion for Postherpetic Neuralgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

For those suffering from the debilitating effects of postherpetic neuralgia, acupuncture offers a hopeful path to relief and improved well-being.

What Other Chinese Medicine Treatments Can Be Helpful For Postherpetic Neuralgia?

• Cupping: Cupping is often used to draw out toxins in the skin and increase circulation. Cupping cannot be used with active shingles lesions. It can be applied once the shingles scabs have fallen off.
• Moxibustion: Moxibustion is an effective therapy for postherpetic neuralgia. It may seem counterintuitive, but moxa is very helpful for treating damp heat and heat toxins in the skin, reducing pain and increasing circulation.  Moxibustion is also particularly effective in working with health conditions effecting the nerves and nervous system
• Internal Herbal Medicine: Herbal medicine is often used to improve the overall health of a patient, enhancing digestion, sleep, urination, etc., while also helping to reduce pain on the skin and in the nerves
• External Herbal Medicine: Topical herbs can be applied to reduce heat and itching of the skin and promote healing.
• Dietary and Lifestyle Counseling: With all health conditions, certain causative factors can create a health problem or greatly exacerbate an existing one. By working with diet and lifestyle, the effects of treatment are greatly magnified. For post herpetic neuralgia, diet and lifestyle need to be carefully examined to discern aggravating factors.

For a greater understanding of the treatment therapies used and how Ira Wahrman, L.Ac, works, please visit this link: Introduction to Chinese Medicine

Conclusion

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine offer promising avenues for relief from the multifaceted symptoms of postherpetic neuralgia. By focusing on the individual and their unique symptom profile, practitioners can tailor treatments that address specific needs, potentially improving the quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition.

For further information about acupuncture and Chinese medicine and how it can help you improve your health, please feel free to reach out to Ira Wahrman, L.Ac, at his acupuncture office in Mamaroneck. The phone number is (914) 772-4044. Or feel free to click below to schedule your first session.

https://acusimple.com/bookings/1508

Can Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Offer Relief for Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or dismissed, it can lead to a frustrating and isolating journey for those who live with it. Many individuals seeking relief from their pain and discomfort often turn to Chinese medicine and acupuncture. Ira Wahrman, a licensed acupuncturist working Mamaroneck, New York, has helped many patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia throughout the years.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a long-term disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. Often referred to as an “invisible illness,” its symptoms are not outwardly visible, making it difficult for others to understand the profound impact it can have on daily life. Research indicates that fibromyalgia affects approximately 2–4% of the population, with women being diagnosed more frequently than men.

Common Symptoms

The hallmark of fibromyalgia is widespread pain, but the condition encompasses much more. Here are some of the most prevalent symptoms:

• Chronic widespread pain: A constant dull ache lasting for months. Often, the pain is mainly felt in the muscles but can manifest in the joints as well.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired despite adequate sleep and rest.
• Sleep disturbances: Unrestful sleep, insomnia, or sleep apnea. Patients often say they feel like they did not sleep at all.
• Cognitive difficulties (“fibro fog”): Issues with focus, memory, and concentration.
• Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to touch, light, or temperature.
• Mental health issues: Depression and anxiety.
• Digestive disturbances: Constipation, abdominal pain, loose stools, alternating constipation and diarrhea, etc.
• Headaches or migraines.

The severity of these symptoms can fluctuate from day to day, making the condition unpredictable and sometimes overwhelming.

What Causes Fibromyalgia?

The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown, but researchers believe it arises from a combination of factors, including:

• Abnormal pain processing: Heightened sensitivity to pain signals in the brain and spinal cord.
• Genetic factors: A family history of fibromyalgia or related conditions may increase risk.
• Infections or illnesses: Certain infections might trigger or worsen symptoms.
• Trauma: Physical or emotional trauma may contribute to its onset.

It is essential to note that fibromyalgia is not an autoimmune or inflammatory disease, although it often coexists with other chronic conditions. From a Chinese medicine perspective, the focus is not solely on fibromyalgia but on the individual and their unique symptom presentation. No two cases are identical; therefore, treatments will vary significantly. If ten individuals with a fibromyalgia diagnosis were in the same room, they would likely receive different treatment plans tailored to their specific needs. Here are two cases below showing how different the presentation of fibromyalgia can be.

Case Studies

Despite both being diagnosed with fibromyalgia, these patients exhibit vastly different symptoms and will require distinct treatment approaches. Each treatment is tailored to address the unique set of symptoms experienced by the patient.

A significant number of individuals with fibromyalgia also experience digestive disturbances. Fibromyalgia and gastrointestinal issues are often linked, with many facing complications like stomach pain, bloating, and constipation. Research shows that up to 70% of fibromyalgia patients may exhibit IBS-like symptoms, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is another common digestive issue associated with fibromyalgia.

The Role of Chinese Medicine

Chinese medicine adopts a systems approach to treatment, particularly in its view of the body. The spleen and stomach system within Chinese medicine is the root of digestion, producing and providing all the nutrition to the body in the form of healthy blood and body fluids. When digestion is disturbed, it can often manifest as muscle pain, digestive upset, brain fog, and fatigue.

For example, I recently treated a patient with severe loose stools who exhibited noticeable muscle loss throughout her body. By working to improve digestion as part of the treatment plan for patients with fibromyalgia, we often see relief from symptoms of systemic body pain. The body must be viewed as a whole, especially when patients present with a variety of symptoms from various body systems.

The Acupuncture Treatment Process

An acupuncture session typically begins with an assessment of the patient’s condition. It is crucial to discern the quality of pain, aggravating and alleviating factors, and a thorough health history to identify other barriers to recovery, such as sleep, digestion, stress levels, etc. This is followed by the careful insertion of needles to restore energy flow and alleviate discomfort. Sessions usually last around 60 minutes, with the frequency of treatment depending on the severity of the condition.

Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia

Acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, is now recognized as a beneficial treatment for fibromyalgia. Here’s how acupuncture may help:

• Targeting Painful Areas: Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body, helping alleviate pain. These points can be used to target specific areas of pain, or if pain is systemic, acupuncture can help reduce systemic pain.
• Relieving Back and Neck Pain: Many fibromyalgia sufferers experience back and neck pain. Acupuncture can reduce inflammation and muscle tension in these areas.
• Improving Digestion: Normalizing bowel movements, decreasing symptoms of acid reflux, abdominal pain, and nausea.
• Overall Benefits: Acupuncture has been associated with reductions in fibromyalgia symptoms such as pain, stiffness, anxiety, and fatigue, while also improving sleep and overall well-being.

There are some studies showing the effects of acupuncture on fibromyalgia:
Efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of fibromyalgia:
Link to study

Complementary Therapies for Fibromyalgia Management

In addition to acupuncture, complementary treatments such as cupping, moxibustion, bodywork (acupressure and reflexology), internal herbal medicine, external herbal medicine, and cranial sacral therapy can be beneficial.

• Cupping Therapy: These techniques utilize suction cups to relieve tension and improve circulation in the muscle tissue throughout the body. Cupping can greatly enhance the effects of acupuncture treatment, often reducing the number of treatments needed to gain relief.
• Bodywork (Acupressure and Reflexology): These techniques apply pressure to various points, meridians, joints, muscles, tissues, etc., to promote relaxation, circulation, improve digestion, improve sleep, and provide pain relief.
• Internal Herbal Remedies: Chinese herbs can be beneficial when used alongside other treatments but should only be taken under professional guidance. Chinese herbal formulas are used to treat the presenting symptoms of a patient. Herbal formulas are customized to address all aspects of health, including sleep and digestion, while also working to help reduce symptoms of pain and fatigue. For many cases of fibromyalgia, internal herbs are added to the treatment to intensify the treatment.
• External Herbal Remedies: After a thorough diagnosis of the pain symptoms, topical herbs can be prescribed. In the treatment of fibromyalgia, since pain is often systemic, herbal foot soaks can be used, which are designed to help address systemic pain conditions. Topical herbal medicine, when used frequently, is an excellent adjunctive therapy and can enhance the treatment process.
• Moxibustion: Cases of fibromyalgia that have pronounced weakness, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, and poor digestion often do really well when moxibustion is added to the treatment. Moxibustion warms and loosens up chronically cold and tight areas of the neck, greatly relieving pain. Moxibustion also balances the digestive system and is used for many chronic disorders. Moxa is used to reset the body’s own ability to recuperate itself.
• Dietary and Lifestyle Counseling: With all health conditions, certain causative factors can create a health problem or greatly exacerbate an existing one. By working with diet and lifestyle, the effects of treatment are greatly magnified. For fibromyalgia, diet and lifestyle need to be carefully examined to discern aggravating factors.

For a greater understanding of the treatment therapies used and how Ira Wahrman, L.Ac, works, please visit this link: Introduction to Chinese Medicine

Conclusion

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine offer promising avenues for relief from the multifaceted symptoms of fibromyalgia. By focusing on the individual and their unique symptom profile, practitioners can tailor treatments that address specific needs, potentially improving the quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition.

For further information about acupuncture and Chinese medicine and how it can help you improve your health, please feel free to reach out to Ira Wahrman, L.Ac, at his acupuncture office in Mamaroneck. The phone number is (914) 772-4044. Or feel free to click below to schedule your first session.

https://acusimple.com/bookings/1508

I often tell my patients who come to the office in Mamaroneck seeking acupuncture and Chinese medicine the same thing: more than fifty percent of patients seeking acupuncture and Chinese medicine treatment come for a pain-related condition. The top three pain conditions seen by most acupuncturists are lower back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Most acupuncturists have a lot of experience treating pain, especially neck pain.

At various stages in life, most individuals experience some form of neck pain, whether it’s waking up with a stiff neck or feeling tightness from prolonged periods of stress. Certain occupations may increase the likelihood of developing acute or chronic neck pain. Workers who engage in repetitive tasks, maintain prolonged sitting positions, or frequently use their arms are particularly vulnerable to neck discomfort. In our modern age, “cell phone neck” has become increasingly common.

The neck is among the body’s most flexible yet sensitive areas. Throughout the day, many of us unknowingly place stress on our necks, which can lead to pain, discomfort, stiffness, and restricted movement not only in the neck but also in the shoulders and arms. Our posture, activities, stress levels, sleep, lifestyle, and even eating habits affect the health of our neck.

For those dealing with neck pain—whether occasional or persistent—acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may offer effective relief. Acupuncture has gained recognition as a viable treatment for various painful conditions. This natural approach to managing neck pain is both safe and effective.

Understanding Neck Pain

Neck pain can stem from a variety of sources, including wear and tear, strains or sprains, and inflammation. Common causes include:

• Poor Posture: Prolonged bending or slumping forward can lead to strains (overstretched muscles) or sprains (ligament injuries). Situations like extended computer use, long drives, reading in bed, or awkward phone positions can exacerbate this issue. Sleeping in an unfavorable position is also a frequent contributor.
• Injuries and Trauma: Acute neck pain and whiplash are often the results of injuries from falls, sports, or automobile accidents.
• Medical Conditions: Chronic pain and stiffness can arise from conditions such as arthritis or herniated discs. Illnesses like the flu and jaw-related injuries may also lead to neck discomfort.
• Stress: Anxiety and stress can cause muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and back.
• Exposure to Drafts: Allowing drafts to reach your neck, whether indoors or outdoors, can cause discomfort and stiffness. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views wind as a harmful element that can invade the body, particularly through the head and neck, especially with damp hair. This can lead to muscle soreness and tightness. It’s important to wear a scarf to cover your neck, especially in cooler months.
• Sleeping with Damp Hair: Similar to drafts, going to bed with wet hair can cause neck muscles to contract, leading to stiffness and pain, and may even trigger headaches for some individuals. Ensure that your hair is dry before going to bed.  In Chinese medicine, neck pain may be attributed to factors like overuse, strain, muscle tension, or the invasion of cold, wind, and dampness.

How Acupuncture Can Assist?

Research, including studies published in reputable medical journals, indicates that acupuncture can be a safe and effective treatment for chronic neck pain. It can alleviate pain related to movement and enhance cervical mobility. Given that neck pain can be a persistent issue, it is often beneficial to consider multiple treatment modalities, including acupuncture.

Check out the studies below for more information:

• Acupuncture for neck disorders
• Acupuncture for patients with chronic neck pain
• Acupuncture at Houxi (SI 3) acupoint for acute neck pain caused by stiff neck: study

The Acupuncture Treatment Process

An acupuncture session typically begins with an assessment of the patient’s condition. In treating pain, it is important to discern the quality of pain, aggravating and alleviating factors, as well as a thorough health history to determine other factors preventing the body from recuperating on its own. These factors include sleep, digestion, stress levels, etc. This is followed by the careful insertion of needles to restore energy flow and alleviate discomfort. Sessions usually last around 60 minutes, and the frequency of treatment will depend on the severity and duration of pain. These key details would be discussed early in the treatment plan.

Complementary Therapies for Neck Pain Management

In addition to acupuncture, complementary treatments such as cupping, moxibustion, bodywork (tuina and reflexology), internal herbal medicine, and external herbal medicine can enhance neck pain management.

• Cupping Therapy: This technique utilizes suction cups to relieve tension and improve circulation in the neck and back. Cupping can greatly enhance the effects of acupuncture treatment, often reducing the number of treatments needed to gain relief.
• Bodywork (Tuina and Reflexology): These techniques apply pressure to various points, meridians, joints, muscles, tissues, etc., to promote relaxation, circulation, increased range of motion, and pain relief.
• Internal Herbal Remedies: Chinese herbs can be beneficial when used alongside other treatments but should only be taken under professional guidance. Chinese herbal formulas are used to alleviate muscle and joint stiffness and pain. For some very chronic cases of neck pain, internal herbs are often added to speed up recovery.
• External Herbal Remedies: After a thorough diagnosis of the pain symptoms, topical herbal medicines are applied in the form of oils, liniments, plasters, steams, soaks, etc. Different topical preparations are used for different stages of recovery. Topical herbal medicine is applied daily and is an excellent adjunctive therapy.
• Moxibustion: Cases of neck pain that have pronounced weakness, fatigue, and sensitivity to cold often do really well when moxibustion is added to the treatment. Moxibustion warms and loosens up chronically cold and tight areas of the neck, greatly relieving pain.
• Dietary and Lifestyle Counseling: With all health conditions, there are certain causative factors that can create a health problem or greatly exacerbate an existing one. By working with diet and lifestyle, the effects of treatment are greatly magnified.

For a greater understanding of the treatment therapies used, please visit this link: Treatment Therapies Offered..

In summary, acupuncture is a valuable method for managing neck pain. It can relieve discomfort, reduce tension, and restore energy flow. However, maintaining good posture and an active lifestyle is equally important in preventing and managing neck pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does acupuncture help with neck pain? Yes, evidence supports acupuncture’s effectiveness in managing neck pain.
• How long does it take for acupuncture to work? Relief may be felt after one session, but chronic pain might require several treatments. To fully stabilize your pain condition, it will often take a series of treatments.
• Can acupuncture assist with a pinched nerve? Yes, it can alleviate pain and enhance circulation. The only time acupuncture cannot help with pain is if there is a broken bone or severed tissue.

For further information about acupuncture and how it can help your neck pain, please feel free to reach out to Ira Wahrman, L.Ac, at his acupuncture office in Mamaroneck. The phone number is (914) 772-4044. Or feel free to click the below to schedule your first session.

https://acusimple.com/bookings/1508

Studies showing the benefits of acupuncture in addressing acid reflux.

On Saturday morning, my mother-in-law was complaining of dizziness and nausea. She does not have a history of vertigo, but by the evening, she could barely stand. She would not open her eyes and was very quiet. My wife and father-in-law were becoming very nervous. I had her lie down and inserted about eight acupuncture needles into various points on her body. After about 30 minutes, there was no change in her symptoms. So, I took the needles out and applied moxibustion. First, I put moxa shoes on her feet. Then, I burned moxa on ginger at 2-3 points. Within 5 minutes of putting the moxa shoes on, she opened her eyes and was her normal self. By the end of the treatment, the dizziness was gone, and she was back to normal. Yesterday, we repeated the same treatment, and she is doing fine. This is another example of how acupuncture did not work in the moment, but another technique worked almost instantly. Chinese medicine offers this versatility. I am not saying acupuncture cannot help with dizziness; it can, and I have seen it work many times for dizziness. In this particular case, on this particular day, moxa was the magic treatment.

Moxa is a very ancient treatment. It is most likely older than acupuncture. For more information on moxibustion, check out the moxa page on this site. There is a saying in Chinese medicine: if acupuncture and Chinese herbs cannot treat a problem, then apply moxa. I have seen this time and time again for chronic pain, excessive bleeding, autoimmune disorders, severe fatigue, fertility, and even anxiety and depression. Moxibustion can be very helpful for these conditions especially if other treatments are not helping

Moxibustion is also a technique used to prolong life, and it is used for longevity. Moxibustion has been shown to increase immunity and improve digestive function, reproductive function, etc. It just makes the body stronger and healthier. If you want to know if moxibustion is right for you, schedule a consultation today. You can call the acupuncture office in Mamaroneck at (914) 772-4044, or you can book online below.

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