Acupuncture for Boosting Your Circulation
Healthy blood circulation is a vital component
of life for human beings. Without proper blood flow, life would cease to exist.
Blood isn’t the only thing that’s important, it’s what the blood is carrying
that makes circulation so important. Blood carries fresh oxygen, hormones and
nutrients that we absorb from our food. Without these components, the organs
and tissues of the body become depleted, weakened and eventually stop
functioning. Any blockages in the veins and arteries can deprive the brain and
the rest of the body from the needed oxygen, which can then lead to a plethora
of other medical issues.
A
Bloodflow Overview
Poor circulation is a problem that affects
thousands of people around the world, and
decreased circulation is frequently referred to as a silent killer. Many
people assume that blood circulation issues aren’t a worry that needs to be
prioritized until it’s too late and gets overlooked for years. Poor blood flow
can cause pain, numbness, tingling, cold hands/feet and even heart rhythm irregularities.
Another complication of poor circulation is the
possibility of blood clots. Blood clots can be very dangerous. They can
dislodge and travel to the heart, lungs or brain and block major blood vessels
that can lead to a heart attack or a stroke.
There are many causes of poor circulation
including excessive cholesterol buildup in the arteries, obesity, diabetes,
poor lifestyle choices, improper diet, smoking, alcoholism, pinched nerves,
bacterial and viral infections and even excessive stress. The symptoms of poor
circulation include weakness of the limbs, loss of sensation, extreme
sensitivity, tingling, numbness, burning sensation and pain. If circulation
issues are left untreated, it can eventually lead to the tissues turning black
and dying, which is then a case for amputation.
Modern medicine treats poor circulation using
prescription medications, angioplasty, surgical placement of stents and even
amputation. All of these treatments can have serious side effects and any time
surgery is done, there will be down time for recovery that may be extensive.
But there are alternatives too.
TCM
and Circulation
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an
ancient medical system that has been around for thousands of years. TCM uses
modalities like acupuncture, acupressure and herbal formulations to treat the
effects of poor circulation, while actually addressing the root cause too.
Acupuncture in particular is great for
increasing blood circulation because the use of acupuncture needles stimulate
nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a key regulator of localized
circulation. Therefore, the more nitric oxide, the greater the blood flow and
circulation to the tissues.
Acupuncture treatments have also been shown to
stimulate the release of compounds like leukotrienes and antihistamines that
both dilate the blood vessels, while also reducing swelling of tissues. This
leads to increases in blood flow to the areas of the body deprived of
oxygenated blood.
Another element of TCM is the use of herbs and
herbal formulations. Foods, such as garlic, ginger, turmeric and cayenne pepper
can be very beneficial for those suffering from poor circulation. However, we
advise that adding these herbs needs to be discussed with a physician if you
are already taking blood thinners for a circulatory problem.
Poor circulation can be painful and can even be
deadly in some cases, but it doesn’t have to be. Ask me to find out how TCM and
acupuncture can help you with your circulation problems.
New York Sports Acupuncture
Dr. Bishara Wilson, DACM, L.Ac.
888.375.5444
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