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Points - November 2005 - Ask the Doctor

Q: How can acupuncture help in treating infertility?

A: Traditional Chinese Medicine can be very helpful in treating fertility problems. First, acupuncture enhances endocrine function. It helps the body become more sensitive to its own hormone secretions. Second, it helps reduce inflammatory activities and promotes self-healing. Third, acupuncture also helps improve and increase blood flow in targeted organs such as, the ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes. Subsequently, this helps with nutrient uptake of the ovaries so that they produce better quality eggs. Enhanced blood flow also helps thicken and strengthen the uterine lining, which results in improved uterine receptivity of an embryo. Acupuncture treatment also releases endorphins and serotonins. This helps make the body relax, which, in turn, will help a woman get pregnant easier since stress is one of the major factors in infertility.

 - Dr. Daoshing Ni, D.O.M, L.Ac., Ph.D, Dipl.C.H.

Q: Can acupuncture help with heel pain?

A: Acupuncture and Chinese herbs can help many types of painful conditions such as heel pain. Heel pain is usually caused by a condition called plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a tough fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and supports the arch. For many people, this can be a very painful condition, especially when taking the first step in the morning. According to TCM theory, it may be due to qi and blood stagnation in the area, with an underlying Kidney deficiency (possibly). Acupuncture can help relieve heel pain. The Western scientific explanation is that the stimulation from the needle triggers natural pain relieving chemicals, such as endorphins, from the brain. It also reduces inflammation in the area through an increase in circulation and helps promote muscle relaxation. Chinese herbs can be prescribed to also help promote circulation and reduce inflammation.

In addition, it is important to stretch the foot/fascia at least twice a day before rising from a resting position and before and after activity. Massage is also helpful. You can use a tennis ball and roll it back and forth under the foot. Supportive shoes are a must. Many times orthotics, which are custom-made shoe inserts, are required to help heal plantar fasciitis. You should be fitted for orthotics by a health practitioner or doctor, not bought at the local drug store.

 - Lisa Miller, L.Ac.

About our Doctors

Dr. Daoshing Ni, D.O.M, L.Ac., Ph.D, Dipl.C.H. is a Licensed Acupuncturist in the State of California and is a Diplomat of Chinese Herbology NCCA. Dr. Dao has been active in the TCM profession as well as professional organizations. He was an examiner for the California Acupuncture Committee and also participated in the Chinese Herbology Exam development for NCCA. Well known and respected for his special interest in reproductive and gynecological conditions. Dr. Dao is a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Pacific Coast Fertility Society, and American Association of Oriental Medicine.

Lisa Miller, L.Ac. is a Licensed Acupuncturist in the Los Angeles area. She is also the editor at Acupuncture.com.

November, 2005
Volume 3, Number 11

Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders

Erectile Dysfunction

Prostate Health and TCM

Recent Research

Ask The Doctor

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